WUCWO North American Regional Conference, August 8 – 10, 2008

For me the WUCWO Conference began with Doreen Gowans and myself arriving at the hotel in Winnipeg on August 7th and being asked by Agnes Bedard to help sell WUCWO supplies at a table near the registration, which we happily agreed to do. This gave us an opportunity to meet many wonderful ladies from across North America, including the WUCWO President General, Karen Hurley whom we were trying to sell items to without realizing who she was! The next morning Agnes had Doreen and I assembling the table decorations and a large WUCWO poster for the conference and then we were back to work selling items throughout the conference. Just having the opportunity to do this work for WUCWO was an experience I wouldn’t have missed for the world. Marie Cameron also asked us if we would display handmade outfits that were made by a friend she had met through WUCWO who escaped a war ravished country (the name has escaped my mind) with all of her family murdered except her grandchildren, she is now making and selling these outfits to provide for her grandchildren. We sold all three outfits Marie had brought!

As for the business sessions of the conference we began with a beautiful prayer service where every woman in the room (approx. 700) carried up to the front different stories and pictures of women throughout the world. We were then treated to a very moving introduction of our first guest speaker, Archbishop Richard Smith by his own mother Ann Marie Smith. Archbishop Smith spoke to us on “Peace and love, Gifts to be shared”. He told us that we are in a time of new evangelization where we must go back to the basics of joy and wonder in our relationship with Jesus. And that this is needed because sometimes words are not understood and our relationship with God must speak for us. In scripture (Ephesians 2:13-22) peace is described as having nothing lacking – living in communion with God. Peace is the fruit of reconciliation and the church is to be a sign of the reconciliation of unity (centered around the mass) between God and humanity. We are to be Pillars of Peace. Peace is the fruit of justice and love moves toward justice. Jesus is love; He brings to the world the very love that God the Father gives to Him.

After lunch our own Barb Dowding gave us a presentation regarding her attendance at a conference in Rome earlier this year on the role of women in the Church. Barb explained to us that women must use their “feminine genius” to make a difference in our world and that it is important for women to be the peacemakers of the world.

We were then introduced to Nazanin Afshin-Jam, a human rights activist who shared with us her journey in life and the work she now accomplishes through Stop Child Executions. Nazanin was born in Iran, yet her and her family had to flee from their home country when she was very young. They came to Vancouver, BC where Nazanin was raised and baptized with her family into the Catholic Church. At a very early age Nazanin had a desire to help others and therefore she joined the Red Cross doing missionary work, yet still felt she was not doing enough. She decided that to be able to help more people she needed to become known in society so she entered beauty pageants and became Miss Canada and then went on to become runner-up for Miss. World. These titles allowed her to have a greater outreach for her missionary work. Although, it wasn’t until after she found out, almost accidently, about children that were being placed on death row and were being executed for alleged crimes in Iran that she used her pageant titles in the media, etc. to effect change for these children. Nazanin has now founded the Stop Child Executions organization to be a voice for these voiceless children. She stated that only by empowering the people of Iran will peace happen.

We closed the day with a beautiful mass and thus ended the first day of the WUCWO conference. Sunday morning began with a prayer service then President General, Karen Hurley shared with us that this gathering was the first of 5 regional conferences to be held in the next few months. The other conferences will be held in Verona, Italy; Mexico City, Mexico; Hartbeesport, Johannesburg, South Africa; and Seoul, South Korea. Regional Conferences are held midway between World Assemblies, the next of which will be held in October 2010 in the Holy Land celebrating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the World Union. She stated that WUCWO’s priority for 2006-2010 is “Building a Culture of Peace through education and the alleviation of poverty”. WUCWO has held consultative status at various United Nations bodies since 1947 and with keeping within the mission and teachings of the Catholic Church works toward improving the situations of women and children throughout the world. She told us how “there is a challenge and opportunity to expose ambiguous language which some international institutions favour especially related to such topics as gender, reproductive health, choice, or rights”. Therefore, WUCWO makes certain that any of their documents “exclude the use of words with dubious interpretations based on world views that can be adapted to suit different purposes.” She told us why we as women of faith must offer hope and she thanked the CWL for our foresight to create the Endowment Fund which helps support WUCWO programs that benefit women and children worldwide. WUCWO North American Vice-President Agnes Bedard then presented Karen with a cheque for a little over $19,000 resulting from the interest of the CWL Endowment Fund that is given to WUCWO every six months.

Treasurer General, Joann Hillebrand then shared with us that annual expenses for WUCWO are approx. $80,000 and the annual income is approx. $100,000. She informed us that the money from our Endowment Fund funds many countries that do not have the financial means to attend conferences. The Us is presently setting up an Endowment Fund of their own with a goal of raising $5 million which would generate $250,000 in interest annually. The CWL was also commended for their support of MaterCare. She then announced that the collection from the mass the evening before was in the amount of $1,760 that would be given to the Santa Marta Clinic.

International Representative Arlene Barron informed of WUCWO’s work at the United Nations, how difficult, yet also how important it is to remain a voice for truth and dignity for all persons in an environment of hostility towards the Catholic Church. She also shared how help is needed to continue this important work.
The conference then concluded with a prayer service that had each of us come forward to take a paper with the story and picture of a women back home with us to pray for and hold in our hearts every day.

National Convention

Nancy Simms and Carol Penno attended the convention as Provincial Accredited Delegates and will be reporting their experience and observations on the convention.  However, as this was an election year I would like to mention your new National Executive:

President: Danielle McNeil-Hessian
President-elect: Velma Harasen, Organization
1st Vice President: Betty Anne Brown, Communications
2nd Vice President: Cecile Miller, Health & Education
Secretary/Treasurer: Peggy Roche
Past-President: Lorette Noble

Chairpersons:
Terri Scott, Spiritual Development
Pearl Bridgwater, Christian Family Life
Mary Nordick, Community Life
Barbara Dowding, Resolutions
Judy Lewis, Legislation

WUCWO Convention

The World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations (WUCWO) North American Regional Conference which preceded the National Convention had 331in attendance from all over North American.  President General, Karen Hurley of the United States gave an enthusiastic and inspiring presentation.  Barbara Dowding will give a more in depth report on this important event.

Resolutions (In review)

Ten were presented to Provincial; five resolutions were accepted for presentation to the Provincial Convention.  Of the five resolutions forwarded to National, one was accepted, another referred to committee for action.  The three that were not accepted have been returned and will be forwarded to the respective Diocesan Presidents.

The issue of withdrawing support for Amnesty International was brought to the Pre-Convention Meeting and discussed.  It is to be noted that Resolution 1981.13 Support to Amnesty International has been archived and can no longer be accessed on the website.  On July 11, 2006, Agnes Bedard wrote to Amnesty International advising that we could “no longer support the Canadian section of Amnesty International until its position on abortion has been clarified and unequivocally revoked”.   Although this letter was posted on the National website, it apparently was not followed up in a communiqué.  It was our recommendation that members who had chosen to withdraw their support of Amnesty International be encouraged to write them explaining it’s because of their pro-abortion policy.

League Theme for 2009 & 2010 – “Women of Peace & Hope”

The announcement of the new theme was made as a visual presentation.  The words are portrayed in a beautiful logo which President, Danielle McNeil-Hessian has made available in three different programs which I have attached to this email.  The new theme begins in January 2009.  All councils may use the logo without permission and it can be copied or reproduced as many times as they desire.

Leadership Development & Public Speaking Workshops in the Prince George and Nelson Dioceses are proceeding as planned on September 20th & October 4th respectively. Anyone wishing to plan a Leadership Development Workshop is asked to contact Nancy Simms to make arrangements.

Membership Lists

One area of great concern was the reporting of memberships to the National Office.  Since the installation of the new computer program, it will no longer accept any mistakes or incomplete information.  Kim Scammell reported that 95% of the membership lists submitted this year contained an error and had to be corrected before they could continue.  Since cheques could not be reconciled it caused a huge backup resulting in a delay in forwarding per capita to Diocesan and Provincial councils and parish council treasurers wondering why their cheques had not been cashed.

I know we can conquer this problem and ask all Councils to ensure that all relevant information is complete and correct, particularly postal codes, at the time memberships are collected.  With your vigilance, I know that this province will not be the source of any concern in this regard next year.

Fall Midterm Meeting

The Fall midterm meeting is fast approaching.  As many will recall, it is being held at the St. Elizabeth Seton House of Prayer in Kelowna which is something new.  After much consideration, we thought that instead of driving up, we would suggest that those of us leaving from Vancouver (8) travel together by Greyhound Bus to Kelowna.  The return fare is $69.30 (including tax) when purchasing the ticket 14 days in advance (otherwise the fare is much higher).

Thursday, October 23rd, Trip #0034 leaves Vancouver at 9:45am and arrives in Kelowna 4:05pm.  It also picks up in Langley at 10:45am and Abbotsford at 11:15am.  We would leave Kelowna Sunday 11:00am arriving in Abbotsford 3:35pm; Langley 4:10pm; Vancouver 5:30pm.  Let me know if you will be joining us on the bus or need to make different arrangements.

Please send your report on what has happened since the Provincial Convention in advance of the midterm meeting along with any concerns and/or items you would like added to the agenda. Secretary Pat Deppiesse will be sending the Notice of Meeting in the very near future.

It looks like Fr. Tran will be with us for the first part of our meeting and we will be able to begin with a retreat and have the pleasure of becoming better acquainted with our new Spiritual Advisor.

As we begin this new season, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”  Proverbs 3:5-6

May Our Lady of Good Counsel bless and enfold you.

Dear League Sisters and Father Tien,

September – back to school, new books, fresh start and CWL! Special greeting to Past Presidents in their second term: Anna May McCarvill, Maureen Sander, Jeanne Wilson and Pat Deppiesse. Welcome to the ranks of being ‘past’ to Agnes Geiger and Caroline Ann-Alter.

We have the unique position of being able to advise while at the same time being a mentor and supportive part of the executive team. As we hand over the reigns or pass the torch, it is important to let go and let go with grace. The beauty and strength of our great League is built upon the differences we have. I encourage you to have access to The Constitution and Bylaws where on page 12, Article X Section 2 -”Officers” it states that past president are officers of the executive level and page 18 Article 11, Section 7 clearly states our duties. Be sure to check out the National Manual of Policy and Procedure 2003 Page 41 for more outlines of our duties.

Among other things we are charged to care for the archives. Please go to the National website and look for Archives Guidelines for League History Provincial, Diocesan and Parish Councils – everything you need to know and more.

For the past two years we worked with the TEAM theme and it fits our role as Past President extremely well. Be sure to work hard at teaching, evangelizing, animating and motivating not only your new president but all your League sisters. Your joyful support and enthusiasm is the best gift you can give.

As Past Presidents you can advance the cause and understanding and appreciation for WUCWO by your keeping up to date with the latest via website and National updates. While this is fresh in my mind, I want to report briefly on the WUCWO North American Regional Conference in Winnipeg which was an eye-opening experience for the more than 300 attendees. Two highlights include the presentation by Nazanin Afshin-Jam on her work to save women and children from death row in Iran and Karen Hurley (President General)’s report. Both women gave passionate testimony in different ways. Nazanin is from Vancouver, former Miss Canada, singer and activist – she’s 29 years old, has a degree in International Relations and Political Science from UBC, has her pilot’s license, addresses the UN and as of February 2008, Nazanin was appointed by the Prime Minister of Canada’s office to the Board of Directors of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation. Her story was introduced in the context of what one woman can do to make a difference as inspiration for us all. In her own words, “If you can, you must!”

Karen Hurley, President General of WUCWO, gave a wonderful report that challenged all of us to take more responsibility to do whatever it takes to enable the great work to continue. Her eloquence and ability to put a face to the WUCWO’s work make her a great spokeswoman. At the end of this communiqué are some key excerpts from Karen’s talk that I hope you will find inspiring and useful in promoting WUCWO.

Let’s encourage our League sisters to look at the bigger picture, to know that we can, and must, go outside ourselves if there is to be peace in the world. We can support, affirm and teach our women where they live and work of the important issues, to instill the belief and conviction of what we have and hold as Catholic women and to convince our sisters that we hold the key to hope and have the necessary gifts to build peace. Science won’t save society, but love will, for love convinces more than reason; it convinces in our soul. We have so much to be thankful for and have done so many good things. But there is so much more to do. We hear daily of stories from women around the world who suffer abuse, violence, war, degradation and submission. What will we do to help? Begin by learning more about WUCWO and find ways share the good news!

From Karen’s report:

Beloved Pope John Paul II told the participants of the 2001 WUCWO Assembly in Rome: “…Your Union… is present as a voice even in international forums, to insist that every life is a gift of God and deserves to be respected.  Working together, you must seek to provide increasing material and moral support to women in difficulty, victims of poverty and violence.  Never forget that this important work is rooted in God’s love and will bear fruit to the extent that your witness reveals his infinite love for every human person….Catholic women who live by faith and charity and give honour to God’s name in prayer and service have always had a supremely fruitful and indispensable role in transmitting the genuine sense of the faith and in applying it to all life’s circumstances.”

Each day WUCWO members demonstrate your amazing “capacity for the other,” through peace-building efforts which reflect Christian love for one another. Within the global mission for evangelization and human development WUCWO women advocate “for the other” in many areas of social concern which elicit life, encourage personal growth and build peace

There is a challenge and opportunity to secure funding for representation at international institutions and gatherings so that the voices of faithful Catholic women can be heard.  Major donations by some foundations and corporations assure that their population control and other anti-woman, anti-marriage and anti-family agendas can be advanced.  It is necessary to encourage Catholic and other philanthropists who share our moral values, to work in partnership with us to assure the means to proceed with efforts to restore God’s natural order to a conflicted world.

To my Canadian sisters and brothers in Christ I express my sincere appreciation for your generous donations to the Canadian Endowment Fund.  To each one present here today and all those across individuals, dioceses, religious communities across Canada, to the leadership and Campaign Cabinet. Because of your foresight, each year the interest generated by this endowment underwrites WUCWO programs which benefit women and children.  To my sisters in Christ from the United States of America, thank you for all that you are doing to emulate this successful campaign by launching a similar endeavour to leave a legacy for WUCWO’s next 100 years of faith, hope and charity.  Each one doing what we are able to do will assure WUCWO’s ability to meet the challenges of this moment in history and enhance the lives of the women, children and families God has entrusted to our care.  (Note from Barb: The American goal is 5 million dollars! That’s how important WUCWO is to them).

Each of us is called to go out to all the world and tell the good news of Jesus Christ and the good news of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations. We look forward to a future full of hope where the opportunities for women to promote a culture of life and peace exceed any challenges.  Increased collaboration with the Holy See, other Catholic-inspired Non-Governmental Organizations, other organizations of good will, as well as the media, can lead to a cultural and societal transformation which respects and promotes human dignity.  Being nourished by the Eucharist, availing ourselves of ongoing spiritual formation and continuing education in Church teachings are vital for our ability to transmit authentic Catholic Christian values to the world.  (Karen Hurley, August 10, 2008).

Bless you all for your fine work and love for our League!

“Hold firm and take heart. Hope in the Lord!” (ps. 27:14)

Dear League Sisters and Father Terry,

I hope you have all had a good Lent and I pray that this Holy Week will be particularly prayerful for you. It is such a hopeful time of year with the longer, lighter days and Easter’s promise upon us!

But first, special congratulations to the Nelson Diocese on the appointment of their new Bishop, John Corriveau, ofm. This will be an exciting time for your diocese and for Bishop Corriveau too as he begins to see how wonderful the CWL is! Bishop Cooney is in our prayers too for his many years of support and service.

Annual reports

Next, thanks to everyone for the great annual reports and on time too. It makes my job so much easier as I try to pull them all together for my president’s report to National. I look forward to seeing a variation of all those statistics and interesting tidbits in our annual convention book.

Government Meeting

We had an interesting and productive meeting on March 5 with both the NDP and members of the Liberal Caucus. Sheila Quinn, Pat Battensby and I were pleased to present a number of resolutions and recommendations. We had good feedback and questions on human trafficking, elder abuse in care homes, banning the use of cell phones in cars and the issue around legalizing brothels among other things. More than once we were referred to as ‘the conscience’ for the politicians that needs to be heard. It was a compliment and made us even more determined to continue to meet as often as we can. One NDP member suggested we take our resolution and ideas regarding the 2010 games and the issue of prostitution/brothels to Colin Hansen. She agreed to assist in getting an appointment if we had trouble.

Knights of Columbus

We’ve had some good dialogue with the State Deputy, Dan O’Hara as they work on a resolution re prostitution and we will continue to work together on this. Bishop Monroe has been a driving force and I believe this is the type of collaboration we need, as Catholic men and women. The Knights are also planning a March for Life in Victoria on May 8 as well as a day of Adoration for the success of the Eucharistic Congress. Watch for more details and let’s try to support these events.

Conventions

Before you know it we’ll be full on into convention mode. Diocesan Presidents have been planning and preparing for months now and from what I can see all the dioceses are going to have interesting and productive meetings. With elections in the offing for some dioceses and provincial, as well as national nominations to come, it should be lots of fun!

Diocesan

This year’s workshop will focus on Communications. There are many facets to successful and efficient communication in all areas of our lives. Look for a workshop that will help with conflict resolution, media savvy and even some tips on effective reporting. I also hope you are planning to celebrate membership goals/achievements in some way.

Provincial

National President, Lorette Noble will be our featured guest and presenter. Lorette is always a delight and we are looking forward to what pearls of wisdom she will bring. The planning committee from the Kamloops diocese has been working hard with the local council in Williams Lake. Suffice to say you will be Taught, Evangelized, Animated and Motivated over the course of our time together. In particular Fr. Brock will bring Blessed Teresa of Calcutta to us as only he can and we look forward to this special time with him as he prepares to pass the torch as our beloved Spiritual Advisor. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control (a Ukrainian Cardinal, no less!), most of our Bishops will not be able to come to Williams Lake. This has meant a bit of readjustment re the agenda but you can be sure we won’t have trouble filling it.

Provincial executive

Please be sure to book your accommodations and get your flights as soon as possible. Also if possible to bring your Standing Committee Chairperson’s box to exchange and be prepared to stay for the post convention meeting.

National

Just a reminder about the WUCWO Regional meeting and the fact that registration for that is included with your National registration. All the information you need is in the League Magazine. This would be a great convention to get to and Winnipeg isn’t that far!

Conference on women

You will recall at our meeting in January that I was preparing to attend the conference sponsored by the Pontifical Council for the Laity, Feb 6-10 in Rome. It was an awesome experience to say the least. I’ve written a short article for the League Magazine and our newsletter but there is still so much to synthesize. More than 150 delegates participated from 47 countries and even more ecclesial movements including the Catholic Women’s League to mark the 20th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s Apostolic Letter, “Mulieris Dignitatem.” Over the three days, we were reminded about the unique vocation we have as women to safeguard humanity and bring about peace. I learned about a ‘maternal church’ that I understood to mean a church with a motherly and tender focus that would enable people to acquire new freedoms proper to Christianity, to appreciate the value of relationships and to rediscover different experiences of culture. This conference instilled in us the desire to support, affirm and teach our women where they live and work of the important issues, to instill the belief and conviction of what we have and hold as Catholic women and to convince our sisters that they (we) hold the key to hope and have the necessary gifts to build peace. During our audience with Pope Benedict, he said: “it is necessary to enable the women to collaborate in the building of society, appreciating her feminine genius.”

Leadership workshop in Kamloops

From Rome via London to Kamloops! The leadership workshop was extremely well received and Marilyn did a great job in presenting this with me. More on the workshops later!

National Spring Meeting

February 29 – March 2. And then to Montreal – what a month! The meeting was interesting and lively as always. It was special for me in that it was my last one, already! The tradition at those meetings is that the outgoing presidents do a skit or song to honour the others and the time spent together. As well, the presidents who are staying for another term do something special for those of us who are leaving. It was really something to see. You would be so proud of this group of women who support and affirm one another in prayer and song and fun!

I’ve attached a report of the basic business from my notes. Some things that should interest us all include:

• Resolutions process. Diocesan and Provincial resolutions committees will have to be well prepared in dealing with the new criteria. Diocesan presidents, please be sure you are clear what’s being asked. We don’t want any of our resolutions to be rejected on the basis of not following the guidelines – that would be a terrible situation for those who have worked so hard. If you need any help or clarification prior to your conventions, please contact Sheila directly.
• Forms for reported deceased members will be changed as well as the process – watch for it!
• Criteria for the National Development fund is likely to change as well as the forms. If you are planning to apply, don’t wait too long.
• Membership for BC & Yukon is up again – this time we are one of five provinces with increases – well done! Inching ever closer to our 10,000 if we are to catch the Knights….

And lastly, thank you to Pat Battensby for her good work on the Nominations Committee. It is a huge job. Thank you to those of you who so generously agreed to let your names stand. Special thanks also if you could not. I know there are so many extenuating circumstances that influence our lives and our decisions. Suffice to say, if and when things change for you, I hope you will consider offering your services in some way that suits your situation. We are always looking to share the load; sub committees need chairs; chairpersons need mentors. Should you be called upon to help, I hope you will be able to give consideration and say ‘here I am Lord, use me!’ Whatever you can do or not, your prayers are welcome as we too will continue to pray for you. Our families are our priority and as sisters we will always support one another.

It’s been a busy few months and looks pretty hectic ahead. Let’s pray for peace, in our hearts first and in our homes and families. I was privileged tonight to attend a Mass in celebration of the life of Chiara Lubich, the foundress of the Focolare Movement who died last Friday. The meditation that she wrote in 1976 could have been written today – it was on love and peace, that all may be one. Pope Benedict sent a telegram in which he said: “I thank the Lord for the witness of her life, spent in listening to the needs of modern man in complete faithfulness to the Church and to the Pope.” May she rest in peace.

Happy Easter!

Greetings:

A New Year’s Blessing

May you be the one with welcome in your smile and hello etched upon your hand, the hand you extend to everyone who blesses you with presence. ~Luke 7:36-50

General Information:

Life members are members of their diocesan and provincial councils, but are not part of the diocesan and provincial executives. They do not attend the executive meetings unless requested to do so by the executive. They, therefore, do not automatically receive the minutes. Life members do not have the authority to communicate the business carried out at these executive meetings. All members are welcome to express their views to the executive members. As life members we can best support the new and younger executive members by respecting their ability to make decisions on League matters.

Interesting notes received from newsletters from provincial life member liaisons and passed on from Joan Baudais, National Life Member Liaison:

• Newfoundland and Labrador has a Life Member Mentoring Program whereby each parish council is connected to a life member who acts as a mentor to those councils.
• Alberta/Mackenzie: Life Member Connie McBride, elaborated on the voting privileges of life members. They have voting powers at conventions in their own diocese, their province and at national convention. At diocesan executive meetings they do not have voting powers, nor can they move or second motions, as they are not part of the elected executive. (National Manual of Policy and Procedure)
• Manitoba Life Member Liaison, Margaret Silverthorne, invited all life members into her home for a prayer service for each of their deceased life members. They celebrated who each one was through prayer, song and stories.
• Some provinces also have diocesan life member liaisons, which enhances communication and fellowship. If possible, it is advisable to occasionally meet socially to strengthen the sisterhood of life membership. * As you all know BC/Yukon is one of these provinces who are fortunate to have liaisons *

Barbara Dowding – Vice Chancellor, Vancouver Archdiocese was invited by Archbishop Raymond Roussin SM and Coadjutor Archbishop Michael Miller to attend on behalf of the Archdiocese of Vancouver, the International Women’s Conference in Rome. The international congress, entitled Woman and Man, the humanum in its entirety is being hosted by the Pontifical Council for the Laity. This is an ‘awesome experience’ for ‘our League Sister’ and we are so very proud of ‘our Barb’ and we look forward to hearing first hand of Barb’s experience.

World Union of Catholic Women’s Organization (WUCWO)

2008 is the 20th anniversary of the apostolic letter by Pope John Paul II on Mulieris Dignitatem (The Dignity and Vocation of Women on the Occasion of the Marian Year). In celebrating, 250 women from around the world have been invited to Rome to participate in a congress from February 7th to 9th.

North American Regional Vice-President of WUCWO and Honorary Life Member Agnes Bedard (2004-2006) has been invited and is attending this congress. Three WUCWO members are making presentation. Following are the topics that were chosen: 1) promoting women’s dignity; 2) guardians of spouses’ maternal love; 3) role of women in communicating the Christian faith.

We can expect good feedback from this conference at the WUCWO North American Regional Conference which will be held prior to the 88th annual national convention in Winnipeg in August. This is a wonderful opportunity for all of us. Let us make a special effort to attend this year’s national convention and WUCWO conference.

Conventions:

An ‘Invitation’ to attend our 61st Annual Provincial Convention being held in Williams Lake, BC May 30th to June 2nd is forthcoming in the convention package and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible there. If you are unable to attend you can participate prayerfully for success of the convention.

Prayer Request:

Diana McKenzie, Life Member Liaison Prince George Diocese has asked us to prayer for the family of Kay Williams, life member and good friend from Manitoba who passed away peacefully February 7th. May she rest in peace.

Reminder:

As a part of the ‘fabric and threads’ that make up the personal story and journey of the life members of the BC and Yukon council, has YOUR story been written? Remember it is your personal story and how it is tied in with the league. Share where you are from, what was the world like when you were young, how you met your husband, how and why did you become a member of the League ~ be part of the ‘Thelma Project’ and the history of our council!

Pray that we as life members have the courage to deliver our “words of wisdom” when the time is right and to learn when to keep silent and listen to other League members.

Blessings,

Ann Dobie

Dear League Sisters and Father Terry,

Fall is fast approaching! The cooler mornings, the mist and fog, not to mention the spider webs everywhere tell me its time to get back to work.

I can see your Provincial Executive have been busy and thank them for the fine communiques filled with great pearls of information and ideas for action.

You will be receiving reports from Sheila Q…., 1st Vice President and Marilyn V………, 2nd Vice President on their view of the National Convention in Montreal. I can tell you that you will think you were there after reading the reports!

I was a very proud Provincial President when our three new Life Members were “inducted” at a moving and very meaningful service. Congratulations again to Marianna C, Sheila Q and Marilyn V.

While I was pleased that so many members from our province were in attendance, some accredited for their dioceses but many on their own, it made me think, once again, that we need to find ways of getting all our diocesan presidents to all the National Conventions. It is such a great learning experience and an important base for League growth. But there is another even more important reason and that concerns the election of national officers. If diocesan presidents have never even seen or heard of the women running for office, it makes for very difficult choices when it comes to nominations and knowing the people we want to elect.

RESOLUTIONS:
We were all disappointed in the number of resolutions that came to the convention floor, but in the end it was a great learning experience. Further, at both the pre and post convention meetings, as well as during the Presidents’ roundtable discussion, the topic of resolutions came up. Presidents called for more consistency in applying the criteria when it comes to accepting or rejecting resolutions. It was noted that this must begin at the parish level. Dioceses must not accept resolutions just because a group worked hard on them or because feelings will be hurt. We have to teach proper adherence to rules and criteria to ensure success at the next level. In this regard I urge every diocesan council to commit to one workshop in the coming months on resolutions. It doesn’t have to be a long one, but there are many to choose from and many qualified provincial and diocesan executive members, as well as Life Members, who would be willing and able to do this. Our League is known for its work through resolutions; this year we have little to show. Let’s all make an effort to help Sheila reach her goal of putting BC back on the resolutions map!

NEWS FROM NATIONAL:
I’m really excited about the manual for Organization Chairpersons that should be ready soon. We’ve been pressing our National Council to revamp and review our training materials and I’m pleased to say it has come to be. I think you will really like it and I am sure it will inspire all Organization Chairpersons, particularly those at parish level. It might even encourage a member to take on this standing committee!

You will also hear more about a new pin designed to recognize service on diocesan and provincial levels when a member doesn’t qualify for or is not able to accept a Life Membership. The details will be clear and you might be surprised to find there are members in your parish councils who actually qualify…. Wait and see! (I will attach the draft criteria, but its for your information only at this time).

WUCWO:
Agnes Bedard reported that the voluntary contributions to WUCWO were up by 75% this past year. Plans for the Regional meeting next August are going ahead well and will be in conjunction with our National Convention. I am sure Pat Battensby will be getting and sending updates as they are available, but want to remind everyone to start thinking about the possibility of attending both parts.

FOCUS GROUPS RE STANDING COMMITTEES:
I’ve attached a power point presentation that was made by Danielle McNeill-Hessian at the convention. Most of it is self explanatory, but if you want any more information or details, please do not hesitate to contact me. The end result is that there are no pending changes to the Standing Committees at least for the time being. The great news, however, is that a special committee consisting of Lorette Noble, Danielle McNeil-Hessian, Velma Harasen and Kim Scammell has been struck to develop a strategy/marketing plan for the League.

Almost everything else new or coming out of the convention is being covered in the Standing Committee Chairpersons’ communiques. Please encourage your parish council presidents to eliminate the ‘no report syndrome’ at their monthly meetings. Teach them how to make reporting interesting and to help them remember that the League is about looking out in to the larger community and world as much as taking care parish needs. We need a good balance and with some creativity, enthusiasm and preparation, this can easily be achieved.

LEAGUE DEVELOPMENT DAYS:
Marianna C…….. will report in her Organization Communique about the Provincial Council’s commitment to provide opportunities in every diocese for education and training about our League and how it is relevant in today’s busy global world. I am asking each diocesan president to find one Saturday that can be dedicated to League Development. This will be a full day, from 9 to 3 and will be presented by members of the provincial council. You may find it interesting to note that the Kamloops Diocese has already booked three such days! Please contact me directly with your date as Marianna will be away for two months.

ANNUAL REPORTS:
Special appreciation to Marianna Caldwell and her hard working committee for fine tuning (once again) the report forms. Please accept them in the spirit with which they are sent – helpful tools to achieve our reporting goal – and encourage all your councils to strive for 100% reporting!

MID TERM:
Thanks again for your cooperation in sending your reports in advance and any suggestions or items for the agenda. We will have a working retreat this year with emphasis on working! Unfortunately, Father Terry can’t be with us, but I know Dodie B… will help us ‘retreat’ well and keep us spiritually on track as we prepare for another busy CWL year.

I look forward to hearing from all of you, particularly the diocesan presidents, as you communicate with your councils and plan your year. Remember, its not about us individually, but rather about how the Holy Spirit works with and through us to serve His people!

With love and prayers from your Sister in the League,

Barb

Dear sisters in the League & Father Terry,

Happy New Year to you all! I hope that all of you enjoyed a great Christmas with family and friends and experiencing the true richness of the holiday season. Ours was quieter than usual, just our immediate family and although I truly enjoy a real Italian Christmas, this one was very special in another way. Hopefully you are all enthused and raring to go with our work in the League.

Nominations and elections
Whether or not your president has gifted you with the chair of nominations and elections, it would be a great idea if you have the opportunity to review the Nominations and Elections procedure in the C and B as well as the National Manual of Policy and Procedure. I know that each diocese varies in their approach to nominations/elections but I do feel as there are new people in our councils, it would do us well to review this procedure each year.

You will find this information in the C and B 2000 edition, p.29, Article XV, Sections 1,3,4 and 5.This information is elaborated on even farther in the National Manual of Policy and Procedure, Article XV Page 61. These two resources tell you all you need to know about this important procedure.

I would like to add to these criteria by putting my own 2 cents worth in the mix. Please, please, please do not attempt to fill all positions just to complete your executive. We have seen time after time that it usually does not work out.

The members we are looking for to fill executive positions are spiritual, enthusiastic women who love the League and are willing to work and learn more and more about our organization. It is almost imperative that they have a good basic broad knowledge of the League. Yes, it is; “learn on the job” but a basic knowledge is a necessity. It is imperative that we discern whether or not she has the time to devote to this position. God usually calls us at a time in our lives when we do have time to devote to the job. The next criteria to me is an enthusiastic happy person. We will only draw more members to our organization if we show enjoyment and joy in the work we are doing. The last criteria is that the nominee has to take the position for the right reason: that is, the betterment and advancement of the League, not for her own personal gain. Yes, we all enjoy the perks of attending convention and having the costs covered but this is simply not enough. We must be in the League for God and Canada.

So in Summary:

• The individual must have a desire to deepen her spirituality and that of her League sisters
• Discern prayerfully about the nominees and the positions they are standing for
• Good basic knowledge of the League
• Time availability
• Enthusiasm and joyfulness
• Motivation

I think we have seen it happen over and over again. If we do not fill a position and pray for that deed, God will make it happy and inspire someone to come forth. We should encourage the members who do possess these qualifications to let their names stand.

I would like to emphasize also that if a member has a position on another level of the League, i.e. if a member is the diocesan treasurer, then she should not run for office on another level. I believe the only exception is past president. Past presidents at any level are eligible to run during those two years for the next level.

The second point I would like to emphasize is that it is our duty to share our experience regarding a candidate with our council in the nomination process. It is not mean or unkind if this is a negative aspect as we are trying to accomplish the very best slate that is possible. We are bound to find the very best candidate for the job. I believe that 4 diocesan councils will have elections this year and I know you all join me in offering prayerful support for this process in these dioceses.

Policy and Procedure Manuals
In most dioceses, it falls to the past president who updates the policy manual. I believe all six dioceses have them but if you don’t, perhaps you could create some interest in compiling one. This resource is a work in progress and should be changed as we go along. It presents the rules of the game and is an invaluable resource for all members of the League. In diocesan councils it is particularly helpful as it states the method that we do things. At convention and general meeting times, it spells out the procedures that we only do maybe once a year and that we don’t immediately have at our fingertips. Please keep this right up to date.

WUCWO
Our own Agnes Bedard attended her first WUCWO board meeting as our North American Vice President in Rome last November. I have written a piece for our provincial newsletter reporting a little about that. Our President General, Karen Hurley, met the Holy Father and her emotional description of this thrill of a lifetime experience is included in that article. Please use their website as well . I am sure that you will find many interesting things. Agnes is in the Holy Land at this point in time; she will be returning very soon and we will have some more exciting news to share. Please keep Agnes in your prayers, she is grieving the loss of her sister just before Christmas and she needs our support.

I know you are affirming and supporting your president in whatever she is working on and that you are at the ready to be there for her whenever she needs you.

I am really looking forward to receiving your annual reports and hearing about what you are all involved in. Please be sure of my prayerful support in your work in our League.
Much love…

Pat

Dear Sisters in the League and Father Terry,

I think it is safe to say that fall has indeed rushed in with a great flourish. Our province seems to under siege with raging overflowing rivers and lakes and rain, rain, rain. It seems really strange that everyone was talking about droughts during the summer isn’t it? This is really a busy busy season in our League’s calendar, parish activities so I wish you all good membership drives and successful bazaars.

I am going to give you a little quote from Margaret Ann J….. from the Toronto Archdiocesan Newsletter, which Sheila Q…. has kindly shared with me. Margaret Ann states:

One of the greatest gifts we give women in our parishes is the Gift of the League by inviting them to become members. One of the greatest Gifts we can give the League is the Gift of a new member.

Isn’t that really a nice quote especially in this time when we are both thinking of gift giving and membership drives. We must show great joy in our promotion of the League, and make it an infectious invitation so that women just can’t wait to see what we do that makes us so fulfilled and productive. So lots of prayers as you all undertake this task.

Just a reminder in our efforts to be really good past presidents is not only the execution of our duties as described in the League literature but also to thoroughly endorse and support our new presidents at whatever level we may be. Give her the affirmation and your confidence in her endeavors and thoroughly encourage her in whatever she is undertaking. This is the most important aspect of our roles. I know that you will all do so. Remember KINDNESS to all we meet as we seek to see the Face of Christ in everyone.

The Constitution and Bylaws
Now is the time of the year to be starting to think of elections. If your president has asked you to chair the nominating committee, then you can really get a head start on the proceedings. One of our tasks is to teach our members about our C & B.

Article XV “Eligibility, Nominations and Elections” on Page 29 is the place to be. Our members have to be educated as to this very important function of our League. Please ask your president for time on her agenda to go over this part of our constitution. . It applies to every level of the League from parish right up to the national level and every member should know these facts in and out. I find that many people are still asking how you run for National office, who is eligible and also emphatically stating that they have Honorary Life Members in their councils. This section of our constitution states very clearly all that you ever want to know about elections. The important thing for you to stress is the critical nature of informed voting. It is so important that we know the reputation and performance level of their past work in the League of the candidates. If we do not know then it is important that we find out from someone who does know. Nominees for political office are certainly not slow or backward about extolling their virtues and yet to me our work is just as important and certainly has some lasting implications in the hereafter. So find out about your potential leaders before you vote for someone just because you have heard their names.

Plan your nominations procedures. Ask your secretary for her updated list of the members who are eligible. We are familiar with the way that your parish/diocese has always done things, but perhaps trying another approach might be more fruitful. Confer with your president to see how you mutually can decide the best course of action. A further great resource to the nominations and elections process is the National Policy and Procedure, which gives great guidance on Page 61 of the revised edition. Check it out it really gives us all of the details.

Archives
In my last communique, I suggested that I would give you some information on archives. Past National President, Lucille Cullen has some excellent content re archives. You can find her complete document on the national web page under programs and it is the very last entry. If you have access to a computer, please check it out but I will highlight just a few items: “Archives should be kept in a locked filing cabinet on church property or in a secure facility at the diocesan archive location.”

Parish Archives should include:

• Original Charter
• Minutes of executive/general meeting minutes should be kept in a binder and dated
• The recording secretary should retain copies of the minutes from the previous two terms only, all other minutes should be transferred to the archives in marked and dated binders.
• All accounting records including cheques and receipts should be kept for five years.
• A separate binder should be kept with important information related to the life of the parish council
• List of parish presidents and spiritual advisors with their addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses as well as their years of service.
• List of recipients of Maple Leaf Service pins/League pins with names and dates of presentations, a record of anniversary dates of all members.
• Additional items for archives:
• Written histories.
• Scrapbooks and/or albums labeled by date and event.
• Annual Reports
• Special project file with financial statements.
• Samples of newsletters if applicable.
• Each past president should be encouraged to write a 2-3 page story with highlights of her term as president

This gives you a good starting list of items what should be retained in your archives.

Thank you Mary L……. for your past presidents communiques. I encourage all of you to share your communiques by communicating with each other. We can make our role as past president much better with these other ideas. Please exchange your communiques with all diocesan past presidents and I personally would love to read what you are doing. Mary sent as an attachment an excellent printout from Mary Jane S….., Christ the King Parish Council in Courtney B.C.

This is titled:

“Archives, Taking Care. General Information From a practical Viewpoint.”

This is excellent information so please access your copy from Mary’s last communique.

WUCWO News
Barb, our provincial president has given me the privilege of being he WUCWO representative on the provincial council. I am not sure if each of the diocesan presidents have carried on with the same appointment, but from time to time, I will be reporting on the WUCWO scene. I just talked to Barb who returned yesterday from the national mid term meeting in Winnipeg and she reports that Agnes Bedard was present for only Friday night of the meeting then Saturday morning was off to Rome for the WUCWO executive meeting. As you may or may nor know, Agnes was elected North American Vice President of WUCWO at the General Assembly in Arlington Virginia in June. We are so proud of this appointment and know that we will now be receiving first hand information regarding the World Union Of Catholic Women’s Organizations. I very much want to share the wonderful privilege that we as League members enjoy as being part of this organization with women from Catholic organizations from 55 countries sharing our concerns and professing joy in our faith. The WUCWO Assembly last June accepted two Catholic Women’s League of Canada resolutions: Trafficking of Women and Children and the Ratification of the International Covenant on the Death Penalty. They both passed at the Assembly. I know once you get into reading more about WUCWO you will enjoy their news. are all members by virtue of our membership in the National Catholic Women’s League so let’s embrace their work and learn all we can about them.

I encourage you to subscribe to their magazine: “Women’s Voice”. The subscription rate is $15.00 U.S. for a minimum of three issues. You will find the form and the address of the treasurer on the WUCWO web site. www.wucwo.org

Please pray for Agnes and the other Board members of WUCWO who are at this moment meeting in Rome. I know we will have a lot more news to pass on when Agnes returns and I will get it off to you A.S.A.P. The North American Assembly will be held in Winnipeg in 2008 concurrent with the national convention so please plan to go to the national a little earlier and catch some of WUCWO’s sessions. More news on that later as well.

This will be my last communique to you in 2006. It has been a big big year and my prayer for you and your families is wonderful family get togethers, beautiful joyous Christmas liturgies, lots of yummies and a blessed Christmas.

With love and prayers,

Pat

What a pleasure it is to report to you on behalf of nearly 9,000 members of the Catholic Women’s League in British Columbia and the Yukon. We are six dioceses ranging in size from the largest with 49 parish councils and the smallest only two. Distance, travel time and weather play a big part in how we meet and communicate. Our challenges are similar to those across this great country, but today I want to focus on the wonderful things going on out West.

The CWL is alive and well. For the 3rd straight year our membership has increased and we are inching ever closer to our short term goal of 10,000. The Provincial Convention in Whitehorse had an outstanding attendance especially since it was so far away for most and very expensive to get to. We believe this is a direct result of the enthusiasm and excitement generated from the National Convention last year.

We offer subsidies for travel to a provincial convention and again this year were overwhelmed with applications. As we had limited funds we were only able to help 9 members attend. Needless to say this is being reviewed and we hope to find more money to assist our members get to conventions, particularly accredited delegates, wherever and whenever possible.

We continue to honour our declaration to raise awareness about Trafficking. Thanks to a grant from the National Development Fund we were able to bring Sr. Pierette Boise, CND to Whitehorse where she gave an excellent workshop. The dioceses are still passing the video “Sisters and Daughters Betrayed” to parish councils and most importantly, all dioceses have agreed to try and bring the Trafficking Play “Lost in Trafficking” to their area.

Like last year, we presented all dioceses with the same workshop. This has proven to be an excellent idea. The topic ‘Discernment’ was perfect as we had been focusing on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We wanted to encourage members to recognize not only the gifts and charisms of others, but for themselves too. It gave people a chance to think in a different way. Members like to be affirmed and this workshop certainly made that easy to do.

We dedicated our convention to asking graces through the intercession of the servant of God, Pope John Paul II, for the healing of our League sister, Jackie L. Members were asked to pray the prayer every day. Jackie continues to battle, is cheerful as always and confident that God will hear our prayers.

The motion to increase the provincial per capita by $1.00 per member passed. This is to be kept aside to offset expenses expected when next hosting a national convention which we understand will be in 2015.

Building on the Pat’s legacy of Kindness, we are committed as a new executive to focus this term on TEAM, but with a new look. To TEACH, EVANGELIZE, ANIMATE AND MOTIVATE, not only our diocesan councils but one another. One of my goals for us is to really take ownership of the ‘teaching role’ of the provincial level. We want to train our members so they can go and train others.

I know we’ll hear a lot more about WUCWO during this convention but I must say, the privilege of attending the Study Days in Arlington, has to be the highlight of my League life so far. What a fantastic learning experience, one that I am most grateful for and will remember for a long time. I am committed to ensuring more exposure and awareness at all other levels of the League for the importance of this wonderful group of Catholic women.

One thing that particularly stands out for me comes from the talk by Fr. Polidoro and that is the need for conflict resolution and the importance of recognizing our own abilities to generate peace, to look for the positive – always – and to start, within ourselves, a cultural revolution for positivity and peace.

Can’t wait to share my hat with you on Tuesday – suffice to say I’ve brought each member of the provincial council with me. When asked what we should focus on this term these are some of the suggestions I received: Generosity, patience, wisdom, forgiveness, understanding, love, inspiration, joy and actuate and gentleness – what a team, indeed.

Front row L-R: Marilyn VanDongen (Christian Family Life) Doreen Gowans (Secretary) Barb Dowding (Provincial President) Pat Battensby (Past Provincial President) Elaine Audet (Treasurer) Sheila Quinn (Resolutions) Middle Row L-R: Gloria Gausboel (Legislation) Nancy Simms (Education & Health) Carol Penno (Community Life) Marianna Caldwell (Spiritual Development) Rev. Terry Brock (Provincial Spiritual Advisor) Missing is Sandra Stajduhar (Communications) Top Row L-R: Diocesan Presidents Anna May McCarvill (Kamloops) Jeanne Wilson (Whitehorse) Pat Deppiesse (Vancouver) Agnes Geiger (Victoria) Maureen Sander (Prince George) Carol Reiter (Nelson) Whitehorse Yukon – 152 members of the Catholic Women’s League of Canada held their 59th Annual BC & Yukon Provincial Convention in Whitehorse Yukon from June 14th – 18th. Included in attendance where National CWL President Agnes Bedard, BC & Yukon Provincial CWL President Pat Battensby, BC & Yukon Provincial Spiritual Advisor Rev. Terry Brock and Bishop of Whitehorse Gary Gordon.

There were various resolutions brought forward from the Dioceses in BC & Yukon to be considered at this convention. 1. Religious Freedom, 2. Child care support direct to family, 3. Relationship between abortion and breast cancer, 4. Protection of the child re: sexual consents, 5. Discontinue use of Polystyrene disposable ware Styrofoam, 6. Adult stem cell research, 7. Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and 8. Implementation of the Canadian strategy for Cancer Control. If accepted they will continue on in their journey to the next level where the procedure will happen all over again. Those and others from across Canada that are accepted will then be presented by our National representatives and her committee for consideration to the Federal Government of Canada.

A workshop on Human Trafficking was facilitated by Sister Pierete Boise Social Justice co-ordinator, from the congregation of Notre Dame. She told us that trafficking is equal to arms sales and that it is 2nd in the world. According to Sister Boise, Canada has signed the papers to stop trafficking but have done nothing to implement it. Trafficking is buying and selling of humans and it must be stopped. Trafficking is when a person is taken form one place to another and forced into something they don’t want to do.

Attending her last official Provincial Convention as National President, Agnes Bedard spoke to us about her session with WUCWO (World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations). Catholic Women from around the world gather to discuss items of common interest. One of WUCWO’s aims is to have Social Justice around the world.

Rev. Terry Brock introduced to us St. Gianna Molla. She was canonized May 16th 2004. Pope John Paul 11 spoke of her as a “woman of exceptional love, and outstanding wife, and mother. Gianna Molla gave witness in her daily life to the demanding values of the Gospel.” She was canonized in the Year of the Family.

For the BC & Yukon CWL it was an election year. Our new BC & Yukon President is Barb Dowding.

Submitted by Past Provincial Communications Chairperson, Dodie B.