Provincial Convention 2009: Secretary’s Oral Report

Submitted by: Pat Deppiesse

When I started to think about what to put in this oral report, I was stymied. Then I thought of all those wonderful ladies who have accepted this – what can sometimes be a challenging role, and all of a sudden, thoughts came streaming in! Times are changing. Most secretaries are now very computer literate and doing a great job. I very much enjoyed reading your annual reports.

I wonder if you realize that you hold the key to the history of your Council? In the minutes of your meetings, you are recording events and providing an historical reference for your parish and diocesan councils.

In regard to what to put in the minutes, be sure to recognize people by name for the good work they are doing. Not only do people need and deserve recognition, this information may come in handy in the future. Remember to have the original minutes signed when they are approved at the next meeting. May I suggest that you get a binder for all the minutes of your meetings, divided by year. You could have the executive list at the beginning of each year thereby making it easy to pass on the information to the past president for archives at the end of your term.

One thing I can’t emphasize enough at the parish council level is taking care of correspondence. Others on the executive may help take care of this, but it is so important that we send out thank you letters, letters of congratulations, get well and sympathy cards, etc. to all our parishioners for milestone occasions, reminding them we are praying for them. The best thing we do as CWL members is pray. We will be recognized as gracious, loving and welcoming women.

If there is anything that I can help you with, please see me at any time during this convention; I would love to meet you!