About 70 St Vincent de Paul Society members from Penang and Kedah gathered at the Assumption Church, Penang to celebrate Ozanam Sunday on 24 April at the Sunset Mass.

Blessed Frederic Ozanam is the founder o the Society of St Vincent de Paul. Every year, internationally, Ozanam Sunday is celebrated at the Sunday closest to his birthday, which falls on 23 April

Frederic Ozanam was born in 1813 and grew up in Lyon, France. He went to study law at the University of Paris at a very young age. At the age of 20, he longed to affirm his faith (which meant everything to him) in other ways than with the spoken and written word. With a few friends, Frederic decided to put his faith into practice and help the poor and the underprivileged. Using St Vincent de Paul as the patron, the then started the society.

The Mass on that day was made possible through the kindness of the parish priest, Fr Michael Thoo. The liturgy was facilitated by the members of SSVP.

After the general intercession prayers, a special prayer for the canonization of Blessed Frederic Ozanam was said.

The presentation of gifts include candle, flowers, book and pencils, cake, a bowl of rice and sugar – gifts that symbolize the society’s work – were offered up by representatives of different conferences.

Br. Andrew Yong, the president of the Penang State Council gave a short speech just before the final blessing. He first thanked Fr Thoo for allowing the SSVP to hold their Mass and fellowship at the Assumption Church. He also show his immense appreciation to Fr. Thoo for his support to the Society. He then gave a brief history of Blessed Frederic Ozanam.

Frederic is an outstanding model of putting faith into action, especially the service of the poor. He proves that to be Vincentians, is not about the clothes you wear or the title before your name. It is about serving the poor in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.

Frederic married Amelie Soulacroix in Lyon and in 1845, he became the proud father of his only child, Mary. Eight years later, Frederic contracted Blight’s disease and after a short battle, prematurely died at the early age of 40. He was beatified on 22 August 1997 by Pope John Paul II, who held him high as an example for all young men and women committed to their faith.

There was a fellowship dinner after Mass, of which everyone joined in and had a good time mingling with each other.