Over 50 Young Vinnie youth leaders from across the Auckland diocese, celebrated their commissioning mass with Bishop Patrick Dunn on Saturday 2nd May, 2015 at St Patrick’s Cathedral. The young leaders, from over 13 Catholic secondary schools, tertiary groups, parishes and communities, were joined by members of the Society, and friends, family and supporters.

Bishop Dunn encouraged and blessed the new leaders as they began their journey of service in 2015. Each leader was handed a candle, symbolising the Light of Christ.  

In the opening address, Gene Paul Kiely said, “It is tonight that we honour a legacy almost 200 years in the making – a long tradition started by Frederic Ozanam. A young man himself who gathered other young people around him to serve in hope of a better tomorrow. It has been moving to see this truth lived out by the many Vinnies youth here in Auckland.”

We thank all these young men and women who are dedicated to making their faith real through serving as Vincentians.