Saint Polycarp was one of the earliest defenders of Christianity. He was a disciple of Saint John the Apostle, and therefore provided a bridge between those who knew Christ directly and those who would learn indirectly about Him and His teachings and make the choice to devote their life to His way. 

We either love or despise Valentine’s Day. The modern culture seduces us into believing we need lavish romance, decadent chocolates, expensive bouquets, and most importantly tall-dark-and-handsome Prince Charmings to woo us into bliss! We are set up to be disappointed with unrealistic expectations of ourselves and our partners, and of course we know that forced love is never true anyway. We can and should celebrate love and even romance, but what does that look like?

Love is palpable this time of year, but it is often intertwined in the occasions of visiting, decorating, gift giving, baking, and other activities that we often look forward to because they are comforting, nostalgic, and bring us cheer. This Christmas, let us accept the challenge of stepping out of this place of contentment to practice sacrificial love.

This article explores the life and legacy of St. Vincent de Paul, the "Apostle of Charity," who transformed from a young priest into one of history's greatest advocates for the poor and marginalized.