From International to Intercultural Living through Vincentian Spirituality
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35312/ctj5ca40Keywords:
Culture, Interculturality, Ethnocentrism, Vincentian spiritualityAbstract
This reflection explores the challenge of moving from international to truly intercultural living in Vincentian communities, based on the author’s personal experiences in culturally diverse settings such as Chicago and Dublin. While internationality is a demographic reality, interculturality requires intentional conversion, openness, and mutual enrichment. The article argues that Vincentian spirituality, rooted in charity, mission, and Christ-centered service to the poor, can become a unifying force across cultures. Key Vincentian values—simplicity, humility, meekness, mortification, and zeal for souls—must be embodied differently by members of varied backgrounds. Intercultural community life demands creating a welcoming home, appreciating differences, and renewing minds to foster communion. Drawing from Trinitarian communion and Saint Vincent’s call to “love each other well,” the piece calls for esteem-based dialogue, mutual respect, and embracing difference as richness. Ultimately, Vincentian spirituality can be a catalyst for authentic intercultural transformation when lived intentionally and grounded in daily shared experience.
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