The towering granite obelisk stands proudly before you, a silent testament to a rich and enduring legacy. This is the Vincentian Bicentennial Memorial, a monument dedicated to the Congregation of the Mission, also known as the Vincentians, who have served the Chicago area for over two centuries. The memorial, erected in 2016 on DePaul University’s Lincoln Park campus, celebrates the bicentennial of the arrival of the Vincentian Fathers and Brothers in the United States.
The inscription etched on the obelisk’s surface tells the story of their mission, a story of serving the poor and marginalized. You can almost imagine those early Vincentians arriving in America, their hearts filled with a desire to spread the message of compassion and service. They established schools, hospitals, and social ministries, leaving an indelible mark on the city.
This obelisk isn’t just a monument, it’s a reminder of the Vincentian spirit that continues to inspire and guide us. It is a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Vincentians, who have touched countless lives in Chicago and beyond.