History and Mission

The Vincentian Studies Institute of the United States, founded in 1979, was sponsored until July 2007 by the ten provinces of the Congregation of the Mission (the Vincentians) and the Daughters of Charity in the United States. The Institute is now sponsored by DePaul University as part of the university’s Office of Mission and Values.

The Institute’s mission is to promote a living interest in the historical, spiritual, and charitable heritage of the Vincentian Family under the patronage of Saint Vincent de Paul (1581-1660) and Saint Louise de Marillac (1591-1660).

The Institute publishes a bi-annual journal entitled Vincentian Heritage, a scholarly monograph series, and a wide variety of translations and original works in the Vincentian tradition.

The Institute regularly offers continuing education opportunities, symposia, and Vincentian Heritage trips.

In cooperation with the John T. Richardson Library, the Institute also sponsors a non-circulating Vincentian research library, special collections, material-culture collections, and other scholarly resources for researchers.

An annual grant program to support Vincentian research is available for qualified scholars.

Barnes and Noble, in collaboration with the Institute, sponsor a Vincentian Heritage department as part of their bookstore service to DePaul University. This site offers a wide selection of Vincentian Heritage books, cards, and artwork.

The Institute seeks opportunities to collaborate with all branches and institutions of the Vincentian Family in the United Sates, to build upon the values and traditions which guide us all in our service.

25 Year History of the Institute