Welcome to the site of the TransCanada Province of the Spiritans. We are a Roman Catholic Religious Congregation of over three thousand members, founded in 1703. Our missions are spread worldwide. While we may be found involved in many diverse ministries, we have dedicated ourselves to working with the poor and in those situations where the Church has difficulty in finding ministers. We hope you enjoy your visit to our site and that while browsing you will keep us in your prayers. May God bless you.

Volunteer International Christian Service

For nearly thirty years, VICS has been sending lay volunteers all over the world to help in whatever way they are asked. Most, if not all, of the volunteers return to Canada eager to carry on the VICS philosophy here at home. Many of the VICS lay people have volunteered for a second or third term overseas. So many of the VICS volunteers have built up life long friendships with each other and the people with whom they worked overseas. So what is VICS all about? Philosophy of VICS VICS is dedicated to assisting in the development of people and of a world which is economically and socially just, a world where all people have the opportunity to live a fully human life as we are called to in the gospel. Sharing professional and technical skills, VICS volunteers seek to work alongside people of the developing world without exporting ideologies or imposing cultural models. They perceive themselves as friends and listeners in their communities, rather than just experts coming in to do a job. Their time spent overseas is a mutual learning experience for both the VICS volunteer and the indigenous people. It is a practical demonstration of the brotherhood and sisterhood of humanity. While overseas, the thrust of a volunteer's work is to foster human dignity which will advance a process of growth in the community. When back in Canada, the impetus is towards mission and Third World awareness. What Are the Requirements for Consideration to a VICS Assignment? good physical and mental health (with supporting medical and dental certificates). psychological suitability. evidence of professional, education or technical qualifications. (University degree, license for a technical trade, registered nursing certificate, etc.). character references. What are the Terms of Agreement for accepted VICS personnel? minimum of two years service overseas. round trip airfare provided. accommodation provided. cost of living allowance given (varies to local situation). health insurance covered. accepted VICS volunteers attend a two week orientation programme prior to their assignment overseas. Placements VICS places volunteers in response to requests received from mission groups and church related projects. The intent is that, as much as possible these communities should regard the volunteers as part of a team effort. Groups overseas which receive VICS volunteers are expected to assist with the in-country financial aspects so that there is a partnership rather than a donor/recipient outlook. Over the years we have had requests for: ACCOUNTANTS ADMINISTRATORS AGRICULTURALISTS CARPENTERS COMPUTER PROGRAMMERS DENTISTS DOCTORS ENGINEERS LAB TECHNICIANS MECHANICS NURSES PHARMACISTS PHYSIOTHERAPISTS PILOTS RADIO TECHNICIANS SOCIAL WORKERS TEACHERS   Read what VICS volunteers are saying...