GET INVOLVED

Become a member

Join your local Conference today

A black and white photograph of two hands gently holding each other, with overlay text that reads 'No form of help is foreign to the society, Rule 1.3 of St Vincent De Paul Society'. There are curved line graphics in the corners and a quote at the bottom that says 'Together we provide good things for everyone'.

Vincentians or Vinnies are dedicated to service and support. Members gather in communities called Conferences who meet regularly. The main aim of the Conferences is to seek out and assist those in need.

Our Conference members, who come from diverse backgrounds, experiences and beliefs, bring a great depth of understanding, expertise and compassion to their service and involvement in the Society. 

What does a Conference do?

Conference work depends on the local need, however members have the opportunity to be involved in a range of activities supporting those in need in our communities. Such activities may include:

  • home visits

  • providing support, friendship and a listening ear to those experiencing loneliness or feeling low

  • providing assistance to people experiencing mobility and/or transport issues

  • gathering and providing material assistance and/or food to those in need

  • advocating on behalf of an individual or family

  • fundraising for Vinnies social work and welfare programmes.

A person holding a handful of coins and a torn piece of paper with the words "Make a Change" written on it.

Join a conference

To join your local Conference call us on 04 389 7122 or email us and we’ll put you in touch with the local President or Administrator. Alternatively, you can contact your local parish.

Click here to find out who is the current president of your nearest conference.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Each Conference in the Wellington Area has a parish/es attached to it.

    Eastern Conference: Holy Trinity Parish

    Johnsonville Conference: St Peter and Paul’s Church

    Newlands Conference: St Andrew’s Catholic Church

    Northern Conference:

    Wellington City Conference: St Mary’s of the Angel’s Church

  • Our Conference members come from diverse backgrounds, experiences and beliefs. Each member brings a great depth of understanding, expertise and compassion to their service and involvement in the Society. 

  • The Society recognises that the level of involvement people can commit to will vary depending on their personal circumstances. There are two levels of membership:

    Conference members are committed to living the Society mission and serving those in need and attending regular conference meetings.

    Associate members are committed to living the Society mission and serving those in need but do not attend conference meetings.

  • No. The Society welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs. However, the Society is a lay Catholic organisation and exploring and sharing our Vincentian spirituality is an integral component of our Charism.