The 350th Anniversary: Mission of Charity, Justice and Systemic Change

Mary Ann Dantuono, who in addition to her service at St. John's
serves as a Faculty Expert for the Holy See Mission at the United Nations and teaches Catholic Social
Thought at Molloy College, discusses the interrelationship of charity, justice and systemic change. During
this 350th anniversary year of the deaths of St. Vincent and St. Louise, it is appropriate to reflect on the
Vincentian emphasis on methods and programs which build sustainable structures and systems. It is also
fitting to consider the special situation of women and children and to recognize St. Louise, a strong advocate
for women who were in the 17th century, and continue to be, disproportionately the victims of poverty
and discrimination.