HAPPY NEW YEAR 2008 EVERYONE: May Our God bless us with every blessing that we need to lead good and holy lives. May Peace Joy and Happiness fill your homes. We leave for AZ in a few hours, 5 AM January 03.

I expect that the Diocesan Chairpersons of Community Life are starting to work on their annual reports due February 15, 2008. Please email the report to me at communitylife@cwl.bc.ca.

Dear Ladies would you kindly send me copies of your communiques that you send out to your parish councils. I requested this and only heard from one person. Thank you Shirley.

Dignity and Rights of Persons
Dr. Rayleen De Luca prepared her Communique #6 December 03, 2007. It was nearing Christmas and I didn’t see that it contained anything too urgent to pass on to you immediately as I had communicated with you a month earlier. I did send out a notice that Rayleen had a new communique out and you could read it on the National website I was pleased to see that Rayleen acknowledged the concrete action taken by British Columbia CWL Councils in their fight against Human Trafficking particularly with the postcard campaign.

Some highlights from her communique: National executive members, President Lorette Noble, Resolutions Chairperson, Betty Anne Brown and Community Life Chairperson, Dr. Rayleen De Luca visited Ottawa the week prior to December 03, 2007. They met with MP Joy Smith (Kildonan-St. Paul, CPC). Mrs. Smith has been instrumental in bringing forward human trafficking to the forefront of government business. Her initial motion read, “That, in the opinion of the House, the trafficking of women and children across international borders for the purposes of sexual exploitation should be condemned, and that the House call on the government to immediately adopt a comprehensive strategy to combat the trafficking of persons worldwide.” In speaking to her motion Mrs. Smith stated, “For years the international community has been aware that vulnerable people have been tricked into believing they could find a better life in North America, only to become the victims of a cruel and horrendous deception and land up as prisoners in the sex trade against their will.”

Rayleen provided a website where you can print your own postcard. I opened this site and it contains wonderful information. Please visit www.CanadaCan.blogspot.com.

Rayleen continues on with statistics about water. We all know to do our part in conserving our water resources. Try not to use bottled water as it is detrimental to the environment. The one fact that tap water is on average 500 times more economical than bottled water should be enough to deter us from bottled water.

Development and Peace
In British Columbia we are making an extra effort to provide more funds for Development and Peace to help countries in Africa deal with the many problems created by the AID/HIV pandemic. I wrote about this at length in Communique #6

We have a project where we can now fund raise in a manner that is not against our morals and faith. See Dr. De Luca’s article in The Canadian League Fall issue page 10.

Resolutions
In the Fall issue of The Canadian League the two resolutions that come under Community Life Chair are listed. You are encouraged to work on these in your parish councils.

• 2007.01 GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR POLICE RECORD CHECKS. Follow the action plan.
• 2007.02 GLOBAL ACCOUNTABILITY FOR CANADIAN REGISTERED MINING COMPANIES. Follow the action plan as well.

Remember Darfur in your prayers and charitable donations. The stories coming from there are horrendous. Really is there anyplace in the world that doesn’t need help in one form or another. Pray for Peace in the World. Pray for the safety of our troops in Afghanistan especially in this volatile time after the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan.

Do you remember the little article I wrote in the spring issue of the Provincial Newsletter about the word counsel or council? I notice that some continue to use the word in the wrong context. I was gently correcting a Diocesan Chairperson about the misuse of council and she said she had copied the spelling directly from the Provincial chairperson’s report. So there you go. It is Our Lady of Good Counsel and the other spelling is, I am a member of Sacred Heart Parish Council.

Thank you for all your good works promoting social and economic justice, helping the recent immigrants, upholding the dignity and rights of persons, donating to Development and Peace and your work with developing countries. The world will be a brighter place. I await your reports with great anticipation. Let’s make this a wonderful reporting year. I would like to have 100% participation from the parish councils. A suggestion: If you haven’t heard from a parish, it is acceptable to telephone or send an email asking about the missing report.

May God bless you and keep you. May our Lady of Good Counsel guide us in this wonderful work of Community Life.

Your sister in the League,

Carol P….

Happy All Hallow’s Eve everyone, and Happy All Saints Day and All Souls day as well. What great days in our Church for witnessing to the holy aspect of these days. I was preparing a communique to bring everyone up to speed on important information in our Community Life department of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada and when I checked my morning email there was Communique #05 from Dr. Rayleen DeLuca, National Chairperson of Community Life, I shall add her comments to my report to you. A reminder for Diocesan Chairpersons to send me a copy of the report they send out to their parish chairpersons.

Our last Provincial Convention held in Victoria was dedicated to Africa as you well remember. Beverley Reid presented a children’s film entitled Anita’s Africa. Beverley kindly gave a copy of the film to each Diocesan President which I handed out to them at the Fall meeting in Rosemary Heights Oct 11-14. She also updated us on the Uganda Library project and only $22,000 is left to be raised before January 08, 2008 when she returns to Africa. If you have any fundraising going on for this project see that it gets sent to her before that. I just received news yesterday that Beverley Reid of Coming Home Films won First Prize in their division Documentary Film or Video. We offer our congratulations.

Still on the topic of Africa, read the following from Pope Benedict XVI:

Pope Appeals for Aid for African Nation

VATICAN CITY, OCT. 22, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI called for international support to help the Central African Republic overcome poverty.

The Pope made this appeal Saturday, when he received in audience the president of the country, Francois Bozize. After the two leaders talked for a little more than 10 minutes, the president went on to meet with the Pope’s secretary of state, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, and Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for relations with states.

The Vatican press office reported: “During the cordial discussions consideration was given to questions concerning the situation in the Central African Republic, with particular reference to the peace process and the role played by the Church in the fields of national dialogue, health care and education.

“Mention was also made of the need for the international community’s support to help the country overcome poverty and the other difficulties it currently faces.”

About 25% of the nation’s 4 million inhabitants are Catholic. Another 25% are Protestant, 15% are Muslim, and the remaining 35% adhere to indigenous belief systems.

Just a few days before departing for Rosemary Heights I received many pages of information from Development and Peace. A formal project to help Grandmothers helping Grandmothers has not materialized yet but Louise Charbonneau, from CCDOP asks that we work especially hard to help our ongoing projects under our 1% program with CCDOP. This will get help to those that need it. Rather than make another document I will cut and paste the letter from Development and Peace, Louise Charbonneau so you will have the right words.

Dear Ms. Penno,

It was a pleasure speaking with you last week. I Hope I have caught you before your departure for the CWL regional meeting. As we discussed, your regional group has decided to stop supporting the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s Go Go Grannies project, in favour of supporting the accompaniment work that Development and Peace undertakes with fledgling community groups, particularly women’s’ groups, helping them to organize their community and find their voice in their own community’s or region’s affairs.

On behalf of Development and Peace, my sincere appreciation goes out to all your members and active participants in advancing the life of women in the Global South. However, as we also discussed, we highly discourage gift designation from even our most generous supporters, and we do not like to accept designated donations of less than $25,000. If the Catholic Women’s League wishes to designate its gift so that its members might get involved, we are very open to helping you do that through timely and regular communication of progress of certain women’s groups in Africa. If you would like Development and Peace to share information about a specific partner, we4 are delighted to do so, in any format possible, even if your group did not designate your donation. It is important to organizations like ours to maintain as much flexibility as possible when accompanying and providing funding to our partner groups. Designation is important to groups like yours so that your members feel involved and active in their solidarity. We can accomplish this for you, without the designation to a specific project.

I urge the regional meeting of CWL to consider Guinea and Togo, and I would be pleased to pass on further information on these countries as a follow up. I was unable to get the country profiles translated in the short few days I had to get this to you in time, so attached are the partner profiles only.

GF2D (Women’s democracy and development and action group) in Togo, Africa. Togo, like Benin, receives very little help from the world for its development efforts. We are one of the very few organizations helping Civil Society in these countries.

<>

CONAG-DCF (Rights and Citizenship of Women) in Guinea, West Africa. Women represent half the population of this country, and they have a long way to go.

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Women for Change, Zambia. As you requested. However, we need to renew this group’s support on our next country mission to Zambia.

<> I look forward to your feedback, and we hope you will consider supporting Development and Peace, and its partners in the Global South, so as to ensure that we can respond in the most flexible way to our African partners’ needs.

Sincerely yours,

Louise Charbonneau
Director of Advancement
Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace
1 888-234-8533 ext. 309

As you are aware I was corresponding with Dr. DeLuca as well trying find out what special project National may be lining up for us. Here is the note sent by email.

Dear Carol:

Thank you so much for your message. As you are aware, the Bishop has been very firm relative to Grandmothers helping Grandmothers. Part of his statement follows: (Rayleen means Archbishop Smith, our National Spiritual Advisor).

“In this matter, as in others, I think it is important to distinguish between goal and means. This goal of supporting grandmothers is wonderful and should be pursued. The means to do so is another question. In both our choice of goals and our selection of means we need to be unambiguously true to who we are. In this particular case of the grandmothers, the desire to help them seems, for some, to be so strong that they are not sufficiently distinguishing it from the question of how best to do it. By choosing only the Stephen Lewis Foundation program, goal and means are being identified and not distinguished. Since this is a pro choice organization we run the serious risk, by association with it, of introducing ambiguity in what we want to be our unambiguous stand for life. Therefore, to be true to who we are in both goal and means, I believe we have to find some way to support the grandmothers other than through the SL foundation.” Carol, at the present time, we are reviewing the projects that we support with D & P. We are again requesting to support a project that directly helps grandmothers. In the meantime, I hope that your members will be open to helping the children directly — via adopting a child from a developing country or from our Canadian missions. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if every council adopted one child? It would certainly follow our theme to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

May Our Lady of Good Counsel guide us on our Journey in Faith to Love One Another.
Rayleen

With respect to how we might look in the public eye should Lewis be granted the peace prize, I think we all agree that our accountability to the Gospel and Church is more important to us than public opinion. So dear League members, in order to keep ourselves true to our morals and values we must avoid any collaboration with those that work against us.

In Communique #5 received October 31, 2007, Rayleen writes that one goal as national chairperson of community life was to prepare a power point presentation that could be used by councils throughout Canada. This would showcase the many good works of member through community life. The presentation is nearly completed and may be used to (a) attract new members: (b) provide an overview for current members: and (c) encourage councils to attempt new initiatives. We will look forward to this with great interest. Rayleen continues.

Environmental issues are at the forefront as well. Social and economic justice is a major focus of the League’s work through community life. However, while reviewing the responsibilities and activities associated with this standing committee, it was evident that there has been relatively little activity spent on issues associated with the environment. Recently, environmental issues have been identified as a critical area. The state of the world’s environment is of growing concern. For example, on September 1, 2007 at a prayer vigil, an estimated 500,000 youth heard the Holy Father strike a strong ecological theme, saying young people need to press for courageous changes to save the planet “before it’s too late”.

Child Poverty
Dr. DeLuca would like a survey taken by the Provincial Chairpersons. Would the diocesan chairpersons kindly find out how many parish councils have adopted a foster child from a developing country as well as from our Canadian Missions. Please report back to me before year end. If you have not adopted a child, please consider doing so.

I logged onto Development and Peace Website to get the report issued October 24, 2007 in which D&P delivers strong message to Ottawa on the need to call Canadian mining companies to account. Seeing that this is one of our resolutions it would be wise to read this press release in its entirety. Visit www.devp.org/devpme/eng/pressroom/2007/pf-comm2007-10-24-eng.html

I believe I have given you a lot of information to digest and work your way through.

So until our next communications I wish you well. Work hard at helping your fellowman under this Community Life Committee. Rayleen now says “Community Life Rocks with Love, Faith, and Wisdom.

Remember that email will easily reach me wherever I may be. May Our Lady of Good Counsel guide us in all our endeavours.

Carol P….

MAY 30th to JUNE 3rd, 2007
VICTORIA, B.C.

Provincial Executive 2007
back, l to r – Susan S. – Prince George diocesan president, Nancy S. – Education and Health chairperson, Caroline Ann A. – Nelson Diocesan president, Elaine – provincial treasurer, Sandra S. – Communications chairperson, Gloria G. – Legislation chairperson, Doreen G. – secretary, Nicole G. – Whitehorse diocesan president, Lorilee J. – Kamloops diocesan president, Evelyn R. – Vancouver archdiocesan president, Agnes G. – Victoria diocesan president; front – l to r. – Carol P. – Community Life chairperson, Pat B. – immediate Past President, Barbara D. – President, Sheila Q. – Resolutions chairperson, Marilyn V. – Christian Family Life chairperson, Marianna C. – Organization chairperson; Missing: Dodie B. – Spiritual Development chairperson, and Father Terry B. – provincial Spiritual Advisor

The Victoria Diocesan Council, with the Parish Councils of St. Patrick’s, St. Joseph’s and St. Andrew’s, welcomed more than 200 members of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada to the 60th Annual Provincial Convention, held May 30th to June 3rd in Victoria. Members and Spiritual Advisors from throughout British Columbia and the Yukon gathered to celebrate sixty years of service to God and Canada. Twenty-four Life Members, including ten Past Provincial Presidents, were honoured for their contributions to the League in B.C., and they set the tone of joy and love that was evident in all of the activities. From the opening Mass and ceremonies at St. Patrick’s Church to the closing Mass at St. Andrew’s Cathedral and the banquet at the Harbour Towers, Victoria offered a beautiful setting in which to celebrate being Catholic women.

Business sessions were conducted by President Barbara D., and interesting and informative reports were given by the provincial executive. A short workshop on resolutions and legislation was presented, as well as a quick quiz on parliamentary procedure. Committee chairpersons had an opportunity to meet with their counterparts, and the Spiritual Advisors met to discuss their concerns and to present recommendations for action. Anawim House, a local home that offers training in life skills to help rebuild lives, received the convention collection. The Molly Boucher Bursary was won by Monique D. from Vernon. Monique’s mother, Life Member Pat D., accepted the award from Education and Health chairperson, Nancy S.

In a special ceremony, members of St. Peter’s Council, Nanaimo, presented a prayer shawl to Past Provincial President Jackie L., who gratefully accepted the shawl on behalf of all members with health concerns and acknowledged with thanks the many prayers. The shawl was made by members of Our Lady of the Rosary Council, Victoria.

Dedicated to learning more about Africa and what we can do, and to developing the national theme of “Love One Another” and the provincial theme of “Walk Humbly With Our God”, the convention agenda was full and varied. Many guest presenters ensured that we learned, and laughed, and shared.

Keynote speaker was Dr. Nancy Reeves, a clinical psychologist, spiritual director, poet and author. She was accompanied by Linnea Good, who shared her original and inspiring music. The program was based on Dr. Reeves’ book, “A Match Made in Heaven”, which explains that one can turn to the Bible for psychological as well as spiritual wisdom, and that a personal growth in faith can help one develop healthy, intimate relationships with others. Members were called to love fully and to say and show gratitude; they were told that in developing self-awareness, they are unwrapping their own gifts and growing into the person God meant them to be; and all were reminded to consult God and each other when making decisions. Daily spiritual practices help one to discern when God is calling and to form a deeper relationship with Him.

Dr. Reeves, in her capacity as a clinical psychologist, also facilitated a presentation on Mental Health and Wellness and the viewing of a video entitled “Bringing Depression to Light”. Clinical and reactive depression, and some of the causes of each, were explained and discussed. There are medical means available to treat depression, but a combination of medicine and spiritual or emotional counseling offers the best results. Members were referred to “Seeing Beyond Depression”, a book by Jean Vanier.

Spiritual enrichment was given by Bishop Richard Gagnon, who spoke on Evangelization – on spreading the Gospel through love. Jesus, through His teaching and example, showed us that to obey is to serve and love. We are commanded not only to love God and our neighbour, but to let God love others through us. Faith comes through the medium of other people, and as a community the Church must practice love. The treasure of the Church is the Eucharist, and it is given to us so that we can come out of ourselves and go out to others.

Education on Africa was presented in many ways. Community Life chairperson, Carol P., reminded members that donations through Development and Peace can be designated to help the victims of Aids/HIV in Africa.

“Anita’s Africa”, filmed in the village of Wandegeya in Uganda, was shown by Beverley R. of Coming Home Films. It was designed for Canadian elementary school children, and its purpose is to explore the fundamental ties that bind all children of the global community and to foster in young viewers a sense of responsibility reaching beyond their own community and nation. The visit to St. Theresa Gayaza Girls’ School generated a project to build a library. Fundraising has begun, with the goal of reaching $22,000 by November 2007. When the construction is complete, plans can be made to obtain book, computers and other resources.

Provincial Spiritual Advisor Father Terry B. continued to educate as he shared the story of Immaculee Ilibagiza, author of “Left To Tell”, who survived the massacres in Rwanda that saw almost all of her family brutally murdered. Immaculee’s journey of faith and forgiveness caused members to reflect on their own experiences and the need to forgive and to accept forgiveness.

Immediate Past President, Pat B., presented a slide show and information on the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations (WUCWO). She related how one parish council successfully took on a water project – just one example of how parish councils can organize help for people around the world.

Although there were no resolutions presented at this convention, work continues on the problem of trafficking of persons. Education on this began with Resolution 2004.05 End Trafficking of Children, and was furthered with a presentation at last year’s convention and workshops during the past year. The provincial council is working with the Bishops of B.C. to prepare a pastoral letter on this topic. With 2010 and the Winter Olympics approaching, the potential for an increase in trafficking is alarming and calls for action by all members. Sister Marie Z., SSA, facilitated a workshop on a response and action plan regarding trafficking, pornography and legalization of prostitution. Members were reminded to be advocates for society.

In her closing remarks, Barb D. reaffirmed the intention of the provincial council to provide education to all members and to develop healthy leadership skills. The hospitality of the hosting councils, the reminiscences of the Life Members, and the wealth of information given all contributed to a great convention. The T.E.A.M. approach – to teach, evangelize, animate and motivate – was an excellent working theme which provided an opportunity for all to grow as League members.

Past Provincial Presidents, Bishop Gagnon, Barb D.
Back, l to r. – Pat B., Rose K., Barbara J., Bishop Gagnon, Ruth H., Margaret B., President Barbara D.
Front, l to r. – Lorraine F., Pollyanna K., Jackie L., Elsa D., Mabel A.

Sandra S.
Chairperson of Communications