At St John's, being a Mini Vinnie means living out the Gospel values through action, prayer, and love for others. Mini Vinnies are children who are part of a junior branch of the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP), an international Catholic organisation dedicated to helping those in need.
Inspired by the example of St Vincent de Paul, Mini Vinnies put their faith into action by:
Praying together for those in need in our school, parish, and wider world.
Serving others through charitable activities, fundraising, and acts of kindness.
Raising awareness of social justice issues and encouraging their peers to make a difference.
Mini Vinnies help bring the principles of Catholic Social Teaching to life. They learn and act upon key values such as:
Human dignity: Recognising that everyone is made in the image of God and deserves respect.
Solidarity: Standing together with those who are suffering or excluded.
The Common Good: Working not just for ourselves but for the benefit of everyone, especially the most vulnerable.
Option for the Poor: Making sure the needs of those who are struggling come first.
Stewardship: Caring for God’s creation through responsible choices and environmental awareness.
Through their role, Mini Vinnies grow in empathy, compassion, and responsibility—becoming true servant leaders in their school and parish community.
Discipleship in action
Moral formation through service and reflection
Engagement with Catholic life and mission
Encounters with Christ through prayer, worship, and outreach
Being a Mini Vinnie helps children develop spiritually and morally, while giving them real opportunities to live as faith-filled citizens who are “called to love God and love their neighbour” (Luke 10:27).