The women of the Central Alabama Ladies of Charity invite the women of Central Alabama to an afternoon social to be held on March 1 at 2 p.m. at Birmingham’s St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in the Mary Room. 

For over 150 years, the Ladies of Charity USA have been committed to loving and assisting people who are poor. In the beginning of the 21st century, the group seeks ways to continue the mission of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac, reweaving the fabric of society by partnering with poor people and others in works of charity and justice. 

Advocacy can be defined or described as taking the side of the poor and oppressed. It is active, not passive. It is rooted in love of God, or as St. Vincent said, “Let us love God, but let it be with the strength of our arms and the sweat of our brow.” Advocacy is a word that describes the ways to effect change, working with people who live in poverty to change not only their personal situation but the systems that have contributed to their personal situation. Advocacy is how to fulfill the mandate to engage in “social” and “political” charity. Advocacy takes many forms.

Through the group’s lunch preparations for the homeless, carried out for the Friars Poor of Jesus Christ, the Ladies of Charity advocate for the homeless by providing sustenance to them. Through the assistance of the ladies at the First Light Shelter and their children, the group serves those less fortunate, advocating for a better life. By posting emergency contact information in English and Spanish, the Ladies of Charity provide an out for women and children in domestic violence. Through the rosary-making ministry for hospitals, churches, and youth groups, the Ladies of Charity advocate for prayers to our Mother Mary.

Compelled by Vincentian spirituality and the Church’s social teaching, the Ladies of Charity USA strives to make the world one of peace, built on charity, justice and human rights for all.

Those interested are encouraged to attend the upcoming social gathering. Please RSVP to Jan Biasini via text or phone at 205.427.8621 or e-mail at jbiasini01@gmail.com. The church is located at 2 Xavier Circle, and the Mary Room is located below and behind the main church.