Victoria: President’s Report 2009

I bring greetings to all from the 15 Councils & Members comprising the Victoria Diocesan Council of the Catholic Women’s League of Canada!  Thank you, for the opportunity to present an update of our progress!

This year our Council celebrates its 83rd BIRTHDAY! The richness of faith and the varied cultures of our Council members blend to present a beautiful mosaic of brightly coloured Wild flowers and we are spread throughout Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Although few in number, (just under 1100 members), we continue to do our best to serve God and Canada making a difference in our respective parishes, communities and our world.

I am pleased to report the Salt Spring Council, has recovered from their potential crisis of disbanding and hopefully will emerge stronger in future because of that experience. This recovery was due, (in no small way), to the efforts of our 90 years young / matriarch and Life Member – Elsa Drummond. Without her determination, and the determination of the members, I am sure the outcome may have been disastrous. Extremely sad for a council tracing its roots back to 1945! They did it their way…. The only way!

We are encouraged that most councils in our diocese have reported a significant increase in membership. A most hopeful and encouraging sign!

Together, we have worked to form a closer bond, exchanging ideas and support for each other and will continue to foster and promote the importance of service to the League through Leadership.

Our members’ tireless works of charity and dedication serve to re-affirm that we truly are:

“Women of Peace and Hope”

“Serving with Faith and Joy”

We eagerly endorse and anticipate the exciting changes that are and have been forthcoming from our National Council. We look forward in future to our League reinventing itself to become more attractive to present and future members. At the same time of course, maintaining the prestigious reputation our C.W.L. has enjoyed over the past 89 years!

Our Diocesan family is blessed to enjoy enthusiastic support and ongoing encouragement from our Diocesan Spiritual Advisor, Fr. Frank Franz,Our 4 Life Members -Sheila Quinn, Margaret Beardon, Elsa Drummond and Ruth Hazlett

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Thankful that we are ably reinforced by the ongoing support of our Provincial President & Council.

My sincere appreciation & gratitude to all who come together to complete the declaration of our Diocesan Theme:  We Are Family!

God Bless You All!