Growing up in Pittsburgh, Rick Opatick was a cradle Catholic, “Later, I began to realize how much I didn’t know,” he recalls. “Catechism in the 70s…there was no Bible study…it was more about getting along.”
It wasn’t until later in life that Rick began to embrace more fully his faith and its call to service and charity. “I became involved in the Knights of Columbus,” he says, “and started to see other men serving and volunteering, which inspired me to get involved myself.”
Rick’s relationship with the Church developed more fully through retreats and various parish programs and activities, and he quickly came to realize that his prior participation in church life was initially just about regularly attending Mass and checking boxes. However, witnessing others’ dedication to faith, service, and charity motivated him to engage more actively, an awakening that led him to a pivotal moment during the COVID-19 pandemic while working parish food collections. With his previous cache of consulting clients dissipating, Rick was offered a position with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVDP), on the feast day of St. Vincent de Paul himself no less (!), a sign Rick took to heart.
Reflecting on the people who have influenced him, Rick mentions his grandmothers, both devout in their faith, and the Clergy at St. Louis Church in Clarksville. “Both my grandmothers were always reading, praying, and attending Mass,” Rick says. “Faith was always a part of my life.” He adds, “Monsignor Luca [St. Louis’ former pastor] was very faithful and supported a number of parish ministries. I had the privilege to work with him and experience first-hand his dedication to spiritual growth. St. Louis has a long history of terrific associate pastors, deacons and seminarians too, holy men, who really helped deepen my understanding of and support for the Church. Now, Father Michael DeAscanis is pastor, adding to the vibrancy of my spiritual community and further enriching my faith.”
Rick’s journey of faith and service found a profound expression through his work with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The partnership between SSVDP conferences and the parish is central to the mission. Rick explains, “Organized at the parish level, each conference needs a strong relationship with its pastor to succeed. The pastor nurtures members’ spiritual lives, leads fundraising efforts, and promotes the Society from the pulpit and bulletins. It’s a symbiotic relationship, benefitting the parish while also improving the community. Last year, Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s 36 conference-parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Baltimore raised $1.7 million. These funds, Rick says, “are effectively put to use, directly assisting those who need help most. We focus on timely assistance, whether it’s providing food, housing, or other essential services. Every dollar raised goes back into the community to make a tangible difference.”
One new and impactful SSVDP program Rick has been involved with is called “Getting Ahead,” a self-advocacy program that helps people gain the skills and confidence required to improve their lives. “Nine participants completed the 20-week program ending in graduation. Seeing their gratitude and the community they formed was incredibly rewarding,” Rick says, adding, “The program builds participants’ confidence, dignity, and self-awareness, and all nine participants thrived.”
Rick shares a particularly touching story from Getting Ahead. “A pre-school teacher had lost her job and become homeless,” he recounts. “Through the program, she regained hope, a community and direction, and re-equipped with these tools, she was able to put her life back on track. It’s these success stories, even if small, that keep us motivated.” The program included not only practical support but also emotional and spiritual encouragement. Participants were given homework assignments and expected to show up prepared, emphasizing responsibility and self-reliance.
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s mission resonates profoundly with Rick. “It’s the humility and compassion of the volunteers that stand out. They help anyone, regardless of their background. It’s about seeing the face of Christ in those we serve.”
Members visit those in need of assistance in their homes or at public locations, always working in pairs for safety and support. These visits are more than just charity; they are an opportunity to connect with and understand the needs of the community.
Rick’s advice to others considering similar ministry is this: “It’s more rewarding than you might think. You realize it’s not about discomfort; it’s about going beyond yourself and helping others. We don’t label those we serve as poor; we treat them as neighbors who need our help. It’s a way to put your faith into action.”
Looking ahead, Rick emphasizes the importance of growth and adaptation for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. “We need to strengthen our conferences within the Archdiocese and adapt to changing circumstances. It’s about envisioning how to continue our mission.” Initiatives underway include recruiting new members and volunteers, especially those who are younger and/or from more diverse backgrounds.
Your sacrificial gifts empower Rick and many other dedicated volunteers to provide essential assistance and aid, ensuring that the faithful can continue to serve their neighbors with compassion and dedication, and, as Rick says, truly putting their “faith into action.”
If you are interested in starting a Society of St. Vincent de Paul conference at your own parish or looking to get involved with SSVDP in any capacity, please reach out to Rick directly at Richard.Opatrick@vincentbaltimore.org.
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