Reflection Starter from Saint Vincent de Paul

"Even though the poor are often rough and unrefined, we must not judge them from external appearances nor from the mental gifts they seem to have received. On the contrary, if you consider the poor in the light of faith, then you will observe that they are taking the place of the Son of God who chose to be poor. . . . If a needy person requires . . . help during prayer time, do whatever has to be done with peace of mind. Offer the deed to God as your prayer. Do not become upset or feel guilty because you interrupted your prayer to serve the poor. One of God's works is merely interrupted so that another can be carried out. . . . Charity is certainly greater than any rule. Moreover, all rules must lead to charity." - Saint Vincent de Paul