Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

By integrating Proverbs 17:17 with our Vincentian values, our 17|17 Young Adults program embraces a holistic approach to faith and service. As friends and brothers/sisters in Christ, we journey together in faith, community and solidarity, and extend a helping hand to the most vulnerable members of our society with compassion, and grace. In connecting with, and serving others, we encounter the face of Christ and bear witness to the transformative power of God’s love in the world.

1. Friendship and Love: The verse emphasizes the importance of genuine friendship and love among members of the community. In 17|17, our members bond over shared faith, values, and experiences, forming deep and meaningful friendships that support each other through life’s ups and downs.

2. Unconditional Support: “A friend loves at all times” highlights the idea of providing unwavering support to one another, regardless of circumstances or challenges. In the context of the group, members should feel comfortable reaching out to each other for encouragement, guidance, and prayer, knowing that they will be met with love and understanding.

3. Brotherhood in Christ: The second part of the verse, “a brother is born for a time of adversity,” emphasizes the concept of brotherhood/sisterhood within the Christian community. As young adults navigating the complexities of life, faith, and identity, members of the group can find solace in the knowledge that they have a spiritual family to lean on during difficult times.

4. Community in Adversity: The verse suggests that adversity is inevitable, but having supportive relationships can help individuals weather the storms of life. In 17|17, members can come together to pray, offer practical assistance, and provide emotional support to one another during challenging times, strengthening their bonds of friendship and faith.

5. Service in Adversity: Vincentian spirituality emphasizes serving the poor and marginalized, especially during their times of greatest need. The verse underscores the idea that true friendship and brotherhood/sisterhood are demonstrated through action, particularly in times of adversity. For 17|17 Young Adults, this means actively engaging in works of charity, advocacy, and systemic change to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable in society.