Resurrection Conference
Resurrection Conference started in 1997 meeting monthly in the Fireside Room, much as we do today with over 40 members. The fellowship today stems from those before us at Resurrection Parish with the desire for a ministry to the poor and those who need service and support during difficult times without judgment.
Resurrection Conference Founding Members:
- Frank Kalinowski
- Sandra Kalinowski
- Bonnie LaCesa
- Genevieve LaCesa
- Guy LaCesa
We want to extend our appreciation to Father Richard Rossman. In 1979, as Resurrection Conference was just beginning he generously provided one-half the proceeds of the parish’s spaghetti dinner as the seed funds for the new SVdP conference at Resurrection Parish. With his support and the efforts of the founding members, Resurrection Conference started on its’ way to support of those in need in the community.
Ellie Clang – 2015 SVdP Portland Council Vincentian of the Year Award Winner
Ellie was recognized for her outstanding commitment to leading the Resurrection Conference Thanksgiving Day Food Box Program.
Society History
On November 20, 1845 a group of the most prominent people of St. Louis society convened the first official meeting of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP). Here, they struck a spark, beginning a ministry to the poor that continues to work to this day.
It all started when Frédéric Ozanam founded the SVdP in Paris, France in 1833. Shortly afterward, John Timon, C.M., an American Vincentian priest, learned about the good works of the Ozanam group and managed to bring a translated copy of the Society’s Rule to St. Louis, Missouri. Reverend Timon staunchly advocated the virtues of the Society to his Bishop, Peter Kenrick. The Bishop astutely recognized that the SVdP was just the ticket for both the promotion of faith and in the satisfaction of the spiritual and material needs of the poor in his congregation. He appointed Reverend Ambrose Heim, already known as the Priest of the Poor, Spiritual Advisor to this first Conference (chapter), which met at the Old Cathedral.
Founders
Source: SVdP USA https://www.svdpusa.org/About-Us/History