On February 21, 2026, following the mass at St. Marguerite d’Youville church in Brampton, Ontario members of the Society gathered to celebrate the aggregation of the conference, commissioning of its members, and installation for new Vincentians from neighbouring conferences.
These ceremonies marked a significant milestone for the St. Marguerite d’Youville Conference and the Peel North Particular Council, affirming the Society’s ongoing mission to serve Christ in the poor through person-to-person charity.
Founded in May 2023 with seven members, the conference has grown to 20 dedicated Vincentians serving in northwest Brampton—one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities. On December 15, 2025, it was officially aggregated with the International Confederation of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, alongside two other conferences in Canada. Only one other conference in the country shares the name St. Marguerite d’Youville, in honour of the first native Canadian to be elevated to sainthood, located in Châteauguay, Quebec.
Since late 2023, the conference has made 295 home visits, providing direct assistance and compassionate support to individuals and families in need. The members have expanded outreach to those facing homelessness and to refugees, responding to increased needs within the Greater Toronto Area. Through strong fundraising efforts, they have played an active leadership role in supporting the Peel North PC’s North of 60 initiative.
The conference collaborates closely with parish schools, assists the parish Youth ministry, and shares resources generously with neighbouring conferences, including access to storage space and non-perishable goods. This work is sustained by the strong support of parish clergy, the parish community and Knights of Columbus.
Presentation of the Aggregation Certificate
The ceremonies were blessed by Rev. Jesuraj Anthony Silva, I.V.Dei, Associate Pastor, and led by Peel North Particular council president Jose Torres.
Ontario Regional council president Guido Kelly presented the aggregation certificate to conference president Alvin Rodricks with the participation of past council leaders who supported the initial stage of conference’s formation.
Commissioning of its Members
Adding significance and meaning to the conference’s milestone, all 20 members gathered before the altar and were formally commissioned, affirming their commitment to live the Vincentian vocation through service, compassion and solidarity with the underprivileged and marginalized. Their commissioning reflects the Society’s identity as a Catholic charitable organization dedicated to practical, faith-based assistance and advocacy.
Installation for New Members from Other Conferences
Fifteen members from the newly renewed St. Mary’s and St. John Fisher’s conferences – also in Brampton – were also formally installed. Each publicly affirmed her or his commitment to the Society’s mission of charity and justice.
Unity, Leadership and Fellowship
About 80 Vincentians and family members attended, reflecting the strength and unity of the Vincentian community across Peel North.
In his remarks, Jose Torres encouraged members – those just commissioned, installed and the rest gathered – to remain informed, engaged, and prepared to assume leadership when called. During the fellowship that followed, reflections by Alvin Rodricks and Guido Kelly emphasized charity and love are the foundation of the Society’s service and of our Christian faith.
Guided by the example of Saints Vincent de Paul and Marguerite d’Youville, the conference continues its mission with humility and dedication—bringing hope, practical support, and the compassion of Christ to those most in need.
Jose I. Torres, Peel North Particular Council President, Greater Toronto Central Council and
Alvin Rodricls, St. Marguerite d’Youville Conference, Brampton, Ontario
