St. Vincent de Paul holds annual banquet in Lincoln with awards and advocacy focus
The Lincoln Diocesan Council of St. Vincent de Paul held its annual banquet at North American Martyrs Parish in Lincoln on March 15, bringing together 120 Vincentians and guests, including members of the clergy and religious orders.
The event highlighted the ongoing work of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP), which describes itself as a “network of friends, inspired by Gospel Values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships and service to people in need.” Volunteer members known as Vincentians are described as “women and men of all ages and backgrounds who have answered the call to live their Catholic Christian faith by serving all those who are needy and suffering, for in them, we see the face of Christ,” according to the Mission Statement.
During the past fiscal year from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025, SVDP received over four thousand calls for help. Volunteers worked on more than one thousand cases and provided over half a million dollars in aid. The organization specializes in emergency services such as assistance for homelessness, eviction prevention, utility support, food shortages, or other immediate crises.
Stephen Uram, national director of poverty programs for SVDP USA, served as keynote speaker at the banquet. He said that efforts are underway nationally to advocate for federal and state legislation beneficial to those experiencing poverty. Uram also encouraged cooperation among faith-based charities and support for affordable housing initiatives. He invited attendees to become advocates by contacting lawmakers about legislative issues affecting people living in poverty.
Awards were presented during the event by Larry Ellerbeck, president of the Lincoln Council. Phyllis Kool received recognition for increasing conference membership; Bryan Dahlberg was honored for his work with prisoner re-entry ministry; Mike Romberg was acknowledged for his long-term service assisting those facing hardship.
The Diocese of Lincoln promotes adherence to Catholic traditions through communications and events according to its official website. The diocese comprises 134 parishes along with six educational institutions according to its official website, seeking to nurture followers who actively practice their beliefs according to its official website. It extends services across southern Nebraska according to its official website while offering support for vocations, family life programs, youth activities, catechesis initiatives, evangelization efforts and charitable projects according to its official website. The Diocese operates as a religious organization according to its official website.
Those interested in joining SVDP may contact parish conference presidents or visit www.lincolnsvdpcouncil.org/become-involved.html.
