St. John’s University looks to St. Vincent de Paul (1581-1660), founder of the Congregation of the Mission, for its vision and inspiration. From southern France, Vincent pursued the priesthood and through a profound conversion experience in his early ministry, unraveled a central paradox of life: it is in giving that one receives. Vincent bridged social classes through his works of charity and his advocacy for the disenfranchised. Today, the Vincentian priests that serve at St. John’s University in Queens, NY carry on the spirit of their founder, in service to the many young adults who share in the spiritual community that makes up this unique University.