Vincent grew up a farmer's son, and he tended sheep when he was young. He wanted to be a priest, so Vincent studied, took up, and got ordained. His mission was to help the poor; he provided food and clothing for them. Tradition says that he was seized by pirates (while onboard a ship) and sold into slavery in North Africa! But he escaped (phew!) and made his way to Rome. He went back to France, and was appointed court chaplain to Queen Margaret of Valois. He is the patron saint of all charities.