Vincent de Paul (1580-1660) bequeathed to his two religious communities (the Daughters of Charity, and the Congregation of the Mission, the Vincentians) a tradition of hospitality. This study lays out certain aspects of this quality. He instructed his followers to welcome the poor at a time when many flocked to Paris in search of a better life. He founded a parish association (the Confraternity of Charity) to minister to the homebound in the cities and towns of France. In Paris, at his mother house (Saint Lazare), he had a small prison which he inherited from the monks who previously lived and worked there. He sent his young confreres to visit the prisoners and encourage them. He provided a charitable welcome for guests, sometimes including troubled clergy who were sent there to be reformed. His charity extended to those coming from other countries, or who lived abroad. Confreres returning after tiring missions were made to feel welcome, and those living in the Saint Lazare community, although accustomed to an austere life, were cared for well. Vincent de Paul's charity led the Church to proclaim him a saint.