President’s Communique #5

Submitted by: Marianna Caldwell

Many blessings to everyone as we begin the New Year. I know you are praying for the people in Haiti suffering as a result of the devastating earthquake. Watching their terrible suffering has certainly put a different perspective on petty annoyances such as bad weather or technological difficulties. I am sincerely grateful for all the many blessings we do have.

So, what is happening?

Great news regarding membership! A must read is Nancy Simms’ Provincial Organization Communiqué outlining a wonderful innovative prize being offered by National to parish councils with the most new members. Good Luck! We came very close to reaching our goal of 10,000 members this year and I hope with this added incentive 2010 will be our year to achieve our target.

National Convention Fun Theme: “The Decades”

National President, Danielle, has asked each province to represent a decade at the National convention in Ottawa. I was the first to put my hand in the basket and pulled out “1940-1949”. Having been born during that decade, I thought that was a very good choice and hope you feel the same way.

As a matter of fact, I think it’s such a good idea, that we should take this idea to our Provincial convention; perhaps everyone could come in 40’s dress on one of the days.

Do you remember the “40’s”? Everyone wore hats and gloves, nylons with seams, dresses with buttons down the front – you get the idea. A lot of things happened for the first time. Take a look on Google for more ideas.

Reporting of Deceased Members

After a lengthy discussion at the last National Midterm meeting, it was agreed that reporting of deceased members should continue the same as last year eg. all reports going directly to National. The process of submitting memberships on line has already begun and therefore, there is a possibility that the list of deceased members will be available by accessing a secure website.

Elections

The election process has begun for Provincial and you will soon be receiving nomination letters from Barbara. Here I pass on the advice that I received in past years.

Pray, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you. Are you ready to take on a position for the right reason and are you willing to commit yourself to give your optimum and very best to whatever position you wish to take on? Do you have the time to research and innovative in your leadership position, sometimes at the sacrifice of your personal activities and family? Teamwork and a positive, enthusiastic attitude are vital.

As you know, this election calls for an instructed vote. Diocesan Presidents finishing their term of office are asked to help your successor and inform her as to the process. Nelson and Victoria presidents will be completing their term before our election and I urge you to thoroughly review the process with your incoming president. There will also be national elections this year that will require an instructed vote.

It is important to give careful consideration before casting your vote. If you do not know the names or capabilities of the candidate, please call on your Life Members or present or past provincial executive to be candid and tell you about the individual’s capabilities. You are electing a person who will be guiding members across the country for the next two years. It is imperative that we elect the strongest possible executives at every level of the League to make our organization the very best that it can be; keep personalities out of your choice and honestly assess the work that has been done.

I am preparing my report for the National Winter Executive meeting in Toronto and would like to hear what has transpired since October. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns as well. As I need to have my report in by January 29th, I would appreciate receiving something from everyone no later than January 26th. Thank you.

Annual Reports

Diocesan Presidents, I look forward to receiving your annual reports. Please stress the importance of completed annual reporting to give us a good perspective of how councils are faring. Hopefully you will receive 100% reporting. Reports are due February 15th.

May Our Lady of Good Counsel keep you all close to her heart.