is a brotherhood or association of secular priests, who, although not strictly a religious order, are bound by vows, and are especially devoted to preaching and hearing confession among the poor. They are so called from their founder, the Roman Catholic saint, Vincent de Paul (q.v.). Another object is to undertake the direction of episcopal seminaries and other colleges for the education of ecclesiastics, and to direct the annual devotional exercises of the secular clergy.
The name Vincentian is also sometimes given to other associations founded by Vincent de Paul. Of these there are several sisterhoods, that of Charity being the most remarkable, and the Charitable Lay Association, which has numerous branches in all Roman Catholic countries.