We all have a role to play in keeping kids safe. National Child Protection Week 2025, with the theme ‘Shifting Conversation to Action’, reminds us that when we work together, we move towards a future that is safe for our children and young people. Preventing harm is built into every part of how the Society works. St Vincent de Paul Society is committed to keeping all children safe, wherever they connect with the Society, and has safeguarding policies in place to guide the actions of our members, volunteers, and employees. While every conversation matters, let's shift words into action. Even the smallest actions can snowball into broader change that makes our communities safer for everyone. Get details on our safeguarding approach, support contacts, and policy at: www.vinnies.org.au/national-council/safeguarding (fb)

On Sunday 7 September, the Society celebrated the canonisation of Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati, a Member of the St Vincent de Paul Society in Italy, who passed away at the age of 24 in July 1925. Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in 1901 in Turin, Italy and grew up with a deep faith and a passionate service life. -- From a young age, he wished to help others - even as a child, giving away his own shoes to someone in need. As his faith deepened, he became more enthusiastic about living a life of faith in action. At 17, Pier Giorgio joined the St Vincent de Paul Society, always seeking opportunities to help the poor - giving his bus fare, his graduation money, and even choosing to stay behind in Turin to look after those in need. -- His generosity was matched by a joyful spirit, a love for prayer and the outdoors, and a courage that shone even in adversity. Today, Saint Pier Giorgio is Patron of World Youth Day and worldwide Patron of Vincentian Youth. Described by Pope John Paul II as a “Man of the Beatitudes”, his embrace of holiness marked by joy, courage, and selflessness makes him a wonderful role model for young people and all Vincentians. -- Alongside Saint Pier Giorgio, in Rome on 7 September, Pope Leo XIV canonised another inspiring young saint, Saint Carlo Acutis. Carlo, a British-born Italian who died at 15, was devoted to the Eucharist and used his gift for computers to draw young people closer to faith. Known as “God’s influencer” and the “patron saint of the internet,” Carlo’s legacy continues to light new paths for young hearts in this digital age. (fb)