Mini-Vinnies
‘Mini Vinnies’ is a St. Vincent de Paul Group in a Primary School. At St. Theresa’s we have a group of Year 5 and 6 pupils who get together to pray, and to organise and talk about helping others in need within our school community and beyond. What makes Mini Vinnies such a valuable experience for the children who are part of it, is the change it makes in our school community.
In the past, we have supported Mary’s Meals charity, where we sent over 100 rucksacks filled with stationary, clothes items and small toys to help children in countries less fortunate than ourselves.
We have also raised awareness of World Poor Day and the children have brought in food and toiletries which will be distributed locally.
Additionally, we have designed Christmas Cards to send to friends in Care Homes in our local community, including some of the prisoners in Leeds Prison.
Our Mini Vinnies group meet once a week.
What happens at a Mini Vinnies’ meeting?
Our ‘Chair’ leads the meeting and organises the group. Miss Grieve co-ordinates the group and gives help and practical advice. The Chair opens the meeting with a prayer.
- A short spiritual reading/reflection/piece of music/meditation follows. The Group members take turns to do this.
- Group members then talk about the Mini Vinnies’ activities they have done since the previous meeting.
- Any future plans are then discussed.
- The Chair concludes the meeting with our special prayer to St Vincent de Paul.
