Catholic Women’s League of Canada | BC and Yukon Council

Submitted by: Sheila Quinn

Greetings and Happy Valentine’s Day,

As we “Walk Humbly With our God” let us “Love One Another” by continuing to take action on resolutions such as those related to on-going major concerns such as trafficking of women and children, poverty, homelessness to name a few. Many other important issues are stated in previous resolutions and can be found on the League website – click on resolutions and follow the suggested action plan. Encourage parish councils to study one resolution at each meeting, then write letters or arrange another day for coffee and letter writing. What makes a resolution worthwhile? The action – one phone call, one letter!!!

In a recent communique from Betty Anne B. she mentions that the new Criteria for Acceptance of Resolutions will be distributed to parish councils in the spring of 2007 as part of the National Manual Policy & Procedure update. Another suggestion to follow as you work on resolutions is – be focussed, use simple language, define the key message and communicate in a clear, concise and compelling manner.

The current issue of The Canadian League magazine has a report on the meeting with the federal government officials and I am sure you will agree our voices are being heard! Education/action on Sleep Apnea is also featured, Banning the use of Styrofoam was in a previous issue, both were submitted from our Province. This is a great way of reaching all League members inviting them to take action.

The environment issue dominates Parliament these days and continues to be a major concern to all Canadians. The recent announcement of $1.5 million being designated for renewable energy is one step forward, this is an opportunity for League members to commend the federal government either by e-mail or snail mail.

In yesterdays throne speech the primary topic was climate change and, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, while health care issues took a back seat. Prime Minister Campbell said that they, the government, are depending on citizens to reach their goal – the green plan. Together let us make a huge effort towards making this plan a reality and to diligently follow the progress made by the government. He also mentioned that homelessness and poverty are unacceptable to the government and according to several previous resolutions presented by the League we affirm these priorities and hopefully we will see positive action soon, not just talk!

“An Inconvenient Truth” documentary by Al Gore on global warning originally aired in May 2006 is well worth watching. It is available on DVD and one church in my area is having a showing and a guest speaker who will address any questions.

Bill C-22 Sexual Consent recently received a second reading and has been referred to the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights. Should an election be called this bill will not proceed any further.

It is important that you share your communiques with me to keep me “in the loop”, thank you to the chairpersons who have already shared.

As our delegation prepares to meet with the government on Wednesday, 28th March please pray for us and the success of our meeting.

Lent – more fervent in prayer, more generous in works of charity, more eager in celebrating the mysteries by which we are reborn. A powerful message taken from the cover of a retreat book.

Your Sister in the League,
Sheila