Youth between 13 &18 years of age have formed the St. John Mini-Vinnies at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Encinitas. Moderators for the Mini Vinnies are Kimberly Clarkin and Teresa Roberts. Officers Sabrina, Mary, Rylie, and Daphne are students at Cathedral Catholic High School. Several youth are middle-school students at St. John School.
Sabrina and her mother Kimberly are the sparks that initiated the move to open this group. Sabrina will serve as President this year, with a full group of officers to support her.
About 15 students responded to personal invitations. In addition, an Invitation was given from the Ambo after all weekend masses on September 10. More than 18 signatures indicated lively interest tafter masses. On September 18, the first official meeting was held in the Parish Hall.
Students viewed a short video before beginning a creative activity. They decorated enamel crosses with colorful sequins. These crosses will be given as gifts to families who receive Christmas Baskets from St. John parish.
The Mini Vinnies will hold monthly meetings and plan to engage in a variety of service projects. Some ideas to date: serving meals to homeless; helping with holiday food baskets; visiting nursing homes; working with senior citizens; hosting holiday parties; baking cookies; holding clothing & food drives.
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul responds tirelessly to those in need. We are willing to serve, and we are glad for the enthusiasm of youth, to move us in new directions!
If you would like more information about St. Vincent de Paul Youth Conferences you can send an email to svdpsddiocese@gmail.com or call 760-224-7974.
