Frédéric has been revered as an exemplar of the lay apostle in family, social and intellectual life. The work he began with the Conferences of St. Vincent de Paul has continued to flourish. At his death, the membership already numbered about 15,000 in 18 countries. Today the Society of St. Vincent De Paul (SSVP) numbers over 750,000, serving the poor in 142 countries– a living monument to Frédéric Ozanam and his companions!