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The Catholic Women’s League of Canada
Saskatchewan Provincial Council
Annual Reports
2009

For a downloadable PDF version, click here.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROVINCIAL PRESIDENT’S REPORT - Gerri Holmes

DIOCESAN PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Regina - Mary Bybliw

Saskatoon - Margaret Schwab

Prince Albert – Erica Maier

CHAIRPERSON’S OF STANDING COMMITTEE’S REPORTS

Spiritual Development – Eileen Danylczuk

Organization – Tillie Aessie

Resolutions – Jean Reader

Legislation – Marcella Pedersen

Christian Family Life – Monica Beavis

Communications – Helen Kayfish

Community Life – Marlene Schnell

Health & Education – Marge Szabo

Archives – Yvonne Colleaux

PROVINCIAL PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT
Gerri Holmes

As the end of the first half of my term is quickly approaching, I can only say it has been enjoyable, rewarding and truly a learning experience. We will begin a new theme at our National Convention in Ottawa but will continue to strive to be ‘Women of Peace & Hope.’

Our executive meeting and fall workshop was held in September at Queen’s House of Retreats in Saskatoon. We had 2 facilitators from Manitoba, Rolande Chernican and Faith Anderson present a workshop on ‘Taking the Fear Out of Resolutions.’ It was well attended and received. A very thorough workshop on how to work on and fine tune a resolution was given. On Friday evening Mary Nordick gave a presentation on her Dev. & Peace trip to Africa.

I attended the national executive meetings in Winnipeg in November and Toronto in February. Our winter executive meeting was held at Manitou Beach the end of February. We had Velma Harasen come and do a presentation on her Coady Institute trip visit to India and Nepal. Our Friday evening saw us gather socially as a group, with 2 talented guitarist’s in our group and many good voices we had a sing song. It was nice to be able to take the time to just be amidst our business sessions.

I attended the special Anniversary’s at Nipawin and Rosthern. Executive members represented us at Shaunavon’s anniversary and the UCWL Convention in Saskatoon.

We have sponsored executive members to attend the CHAS Convention, NASHI Human Trafficking Conference, Pro-Life Convention, Theology of the Body Conference & The Marriage Enrichment Conference.

Invitations have been extended to us to attend the 100th Anniversary for the Archdiocese of Regina, and the Knights of Columbus State Convention in Saskatoon. Along with attending the diocesan conventions the next 3 months will be active.

Our Social Justice recipient was Shauntel Baudu of $1000.00. She is an English teacher at Bishop O’Neal High School.

Our provincial website is finally off the ground after many attempts. Thank you to Tillie for all your hard work. It continues to be a work in progress but check it out www.cwlsk.ca

As a whole the province saw a decrease in membership, the biggest challenge that faced councils at all levels was getting members to take office. Let us continue to pray for and encourage each other in our life’s journey.

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REGINA PRESIDENT'S REPORT 2009

The year 2009 has been filled with both joyful and sad moments. We had a great convention in Regina in April where many were gathered together and then in June we said farewell to Father Louis Kubash. His funeral was a real celebration of his life as a priest in the Archdiocese of Regina. He served the people of God in every corner of the diocese.

As an archdiocesan council we have been blessed by our Spiritual Advisors. Father Louis Kubash was just one example of the dedicated men who have been willing to give the extra time to assist the Catholic Women's League at all levels. At the archdiocesan level our Spiritual Advisors serve for a five year period. At our April convention we said “thank you” to Father Francis Hengen for his service to us and welcomed Father John Weckend as our new Spiritual Advisor.

These past few months have been a great opportunity to travel to many communities in southern Saskatchewan. Congratulations to the Councils who celebrated their anniversaries in 2009: 80th - St. John the Evangelist, Marquis; 70th - Blessed Sacrament, Regina and St. Anne, Kennedy; 65th - Christ the King, Shaunavon, St. John, Rockglen and St. George, Assiniboia;

60th - St. Patrick, Sturgis and Our Lady of Lourdes, Govan; 55th – St. Joseph, Indian Head and St. Lawrence, Maple Creek; 50th – St. Mary, Tribune; 45th – St. Patrick, Cupar and St. Patrick, Preeceville; 40th – Good Samaritan, Regina; 30th – St. Albert the Great, Punnichy; 25th – St. Joseph, Balgonie.

It is truly one of the great blessings for the Archdiocesan President to celebrate these events with you.

Our total membership has declined from 4039 in 2008 to 3941 in 2009. Thank you to those councils who have tried to add to their membership. You will see from the report about councils with a membership increase that, despite increases, the number of decreases is greater. Our Treasurer, Elizabeth Olson, compiles this information from the per capita data received from National Office. The number of councils has also decreased. This is due to the fact that there are a small number of councils who did not send in their membership dues. In some cases, memberships have not been sent into National Office for a number of years. When this happens councils are given the choice of disbanding or becoming “inactive”. If a council disbands then members are given to opportunity to transfer to another council. To be considered “inactive” means that a council still must send in their membership fees to national office.

The enthusiasm evident in some of the smaller councils is an example to the larger councils. It is all too easy in a council with a large membership for an individual member to feel that she will not be missed at a meeting or event. The work of each member is important. Your input on the direction of your council is valuable and necessary. Your prayers for the success of the work of the Catholic Women's League are necessary. We try to encourage younger women to join the League but we all know that in today's world juggling time and work is very difficult.

One of the exciting things about having a special theme chosen by our national executive is to experience the development of that theme by the many guest speakers at our various gatherings. Each presentation is unique and thought provoking, whether the gathering is at our parish council level, our regional level or our national level. It is a special privilege to represent you at the National Convention held in August each year. This past year the national convention was in St. John's, Newfoundland. We were wonderfully looked after by our sisters in the League of the wonderful province. It was especially good to have Archbishop Daniel Bohan with us for the entire convention. Archbishop Bohan was the main celebrant for the Monday Eucharist.

We owe a debt of gratitude to all those women of vision who have kept the light of the Catholic Women's League burning. Those times when we gather to honour our deceased members or participate in honour guards at funerals help us to be aware of the contributions our members have made to their family life, their parish community and to the wider community. We cannot afford to be complacent about what we have done in the past. Our country and our world needs us to fulfill our mission statement. Our children, particularly our daughters, need us as members of the Catholic Women's League. We are needed as “women of peace and hope”.

This concludes my report,

Mary Bybliw, President
Regina Archdiocesan Council

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Saskatoon Diocesan Annual Report

The Saskatoon Diocesan Council has a total of 52 active councils. While the presidents of these councils report that they do not have large turnouts to meetings, they are always able to find willing volunteers for the numerous projects happening throughout the diocese.

Every year as I read the annual reports, I see new ideas coming from the parish level to try to increase interest in the League. One council now has a ‘Membership Appreciation’ evening in January instead of the usual January meeting. This is a time of relaxation, fun, and laughter for new and returning members. Another is trying to raise the profile of the CWL by having a ‘Meet the CWL.’ evening.

In keeping with our theme “Women of Peace and Hope” the councils are busy visiting the elderly and shut-ins; caring for the sick, praying for the dying. Many members are involved directly with palliative care within their communities. Others are actively supporting refugee families or sending support to those in other countries. Prayer shawls and teddies are being made by the dozens and given to those in need.

At the parish levels the councils continue to support youth, through bursaries, sacramental gifts, and support of youth retreats. The women of the League are also busy supporting community projects where they live.

The executive are working hard at educating our members. Many have had speakers at meetings; some using resource people from within their parishes; others have used diocesan executive members.

This year, we had only two anniversaries in the Diocese. St. John Bosco CWL of Saskatoon celebrated 50 years, and Little Flower CWL of Leader celebrated 75 years. What accomplishments!

This year, the Diocesan Council sponsored two fall retreats. Abbot Peter was the presenter for both. One was held in Watson, and the other in Kindersley. Both were well received. The diocesan Resolutions Chairperson also presented a resolutions workshop at Holy Spirit Parish in the fall. It was well attended and will be repeated this April in Wadena. We must educate our members if we are going to encourage them to take part in leadership roles.

We are still struggling somewhat with attendance at regional gatherings. It is difficult for a hosting council to plan and prepare and have very few attend. We need to encourage our membership to look outside of their parish to the broader picture of regional, diocesan, provincial and national. We are a strong group of women because we work together from one end of this country to another. We cannot accomplish as much if we are just one small, secluded group.

This is my last annual report as Diocesan President. It has been my privilege to meet and work with so many creative and inspiring League members. Thank you.

May God continue to bless the wonderful women of the League.
Margaret Schwab
Saskatoon Diocesan President

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PRINCE ALBERT CWL DIOCESAN ANNUAL REPORT

It has been a good year, and a difficult one. Some Council’s have lost Charter members through death, or a move; however, some have grown and celebrated milestones. We have managed to sustain our membership, and had no council disband in our Diocese, thanks to the talents and efforts of our sisters in the League.

With our limited executive, we had big works ahead of us. We involved each other, which has been a real testament to the dedication and commitment in our mission and our goals to you and the League. We have been through some challenging times this year, especially with our budget, we may not have reached our usual expectations, and there have been more satisfying accomplishments along the way that are truly note worthy. Please take the time to share your stories and feats with other members. I’m proud of what we have accomplished and confident of our future in the Catholic Women’s League will truly always exist and have a place in our world.

I am always impressed by the creativity and dedication of all our sisters in the League.

Every year, as I reflect and think we cannot possibly out do what we have accomplished in the previous year, I am once again proven wrong, and in awe of what we have achieved.

I want to express my personal and heartfelt thanks to all of you, for maintaining your balances, (your commitment to the League, your sense of humour, your fortitude, and most of all your humanity through out the challenges of the year). I am so proud of the many stories told within the reports. In spite of the obstacles in your way, you continued to reach new heights, explored new opportunities and presented the CWL in a positive light, what more could we ask for than that.

With Hope, as part of our Theme, you kept your focus. There were some truly huge projects that required the involvement of every member of their council, their parish and other churches. While I cannot capture all the stories reflected by your daily committed service, there is one that stands out. Of that I mean the 2 Pro life signs erected in the towns of Loon Lake and Makwa, under the guidance of a small League of 10 members strong, the Barthel CWL. Well done Ladies.

So in closing I would like to leave you with these few small words of Hope and Peace.

May today, and everyday of your life, bring each of you Hope for tomorrow, because Hope gives us all a reason for trying. And may you find Peace in the simple things, because those are the ones that will always be there.

For when God calls, he gives us a certain degree of inspiration. He gives us a motivation that strongly attracts us all to his calling. Let us have that Peace and Hope with in, so we may hear and answer His Calling.

God Bless you.
Erika Maier

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SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT ANNUAL REPORT
Eileen Danylczuk

Spiritual Development reports were received from all three diocesan spiritual development chairpersons. Without a doubt, members embrace the prayer attributed to St. Teresa of Avila:

Christ has no body now on earth but yours; He has no hands on earth but yours; He has no feet on earth but yours. It is your eyes through which his compassion is to look out upon the world. It is your feet with which he is to go about doing good. It is your hands with which he is to bless people now. Christ has no body now on earth but yours.

Spiritual Growth of Members

• All councils reported meetings that begin with Mass if possible, the League Prayer, a spiritual reflection or the rosary and end with a prayer or a blessing.
• Councils use many forms of prayer including Liturgy of the Hours, spontaneous and rote prayer, the Living and Scripture Rosary and special devotions to Mary.
• The Way of the Cross is used especially during Lent, and many Advent and Lenten resources enhance prayer activities.
• Our Lady of Good Counsel’s Feast Day, April 26, is celebrated with special hymns, devotions and intentions and often followed with a meal. Members wear pins and stoles and perform all of the ministries.
• The presence, message and support of the Spiritual Advisor is noted and appreciated.
• In this Year of the Priest extra reflections and mass intentions were offered and prayers for vocations increased and stressed.
• Mass intentions are offered for the sick, for deceased members and family members. Honour guards are provided for members and lunches served to families.
• Sympathy and get well cards are sent, the sick and shut-ins visited and the Eucharist is distributed.
• Prayer partners, chains, circles, lines are utilized as a means of keeping prayer uppermost in members’ minds and hearts.
• Bible studies, scripture aids, and the use of Catholic reading materials such as the League magazine, the Prairie Messenger, and Lenten and Advent booklets were mentioned as used by most councils.
• Members compose prayers and intentions, and attend yearly retreats and conferences. The use of guest speakers and league programs was mentioned and “Women of Peace and Hope” topics were utilized this year.
• Parish councils celebrate milestone anniversaries, the patron saint’s feast day; they use scripture and DVD programs for spiritual reflection.
• Sacramental gifts are given in some parishes and special services are held at Senior Care Homes. The Prayer Shawl Ministry is used in some parishes.

Study of Catholic Teachings

• Individual councils reported attending various workshops, participating in Small Christian Communities, attending Compassionate Care workshops, reflecting on the Ten Commandments, and conducting Host Foundation Classes.
• Members are studying in Lay Ministry Formation Programs and Bible Studies. They attend Retreats and other special programs such as ALPHA, RCIA, Catholicism 201, Journeys of Faith and the Teachings of St. Paul.
• Financial support is provided for members to attend adult faith formation programs.
• Catholic literature is read and discussed including the League Magazine, the Prairie Messenger, Advent and Lenten booklets.

Role of Women in the Church

• Councils report women are actively engaged in all ministries in their parishes, in choirs, in parish offices. They act as sacristans, prepare intentions, look after finances and assist where needed in their parish communities.
• Women support and assist with teaching catechism, children’s liturgy, ministries programs. They assist with sacramental preparations, art and décor, and church upkeep. The range of work is broad and all encompassing.
• Women are on pastoral councils, deanery councils, school and health boards. They attend and support CHAS, Teen aid programs, Serena, and Pro-life endeavors.
• Women visit the sick and shut-ins, and the elderly. They are pastoral care givers, they bring communion and parish news to those unable to attend Mass. They form honour guards, lead prayer vigils and wakes and serve at funeral luncheons.
• Women celebrate CWL Sundays in their parish by providing ministries, wearing sashes and pins, and sharing a meal together. They welcome all women of the parish to join them as the largest group of Catholic Women in Canada.

Evangelization and Mission Assistance

• Financial contributions are made to numerous organizations: Development and Peace, Esk-Omi, Catholic Missions in Canada, Save-a-Family Plan, Chalice, White Fathers, Good Shepherd Sisters, Camp Lemieux, Grandmothers to Grandmothers, Lebret Native Ministries, Child Care International, Catholic Christian Outreach and Poor Fund, John Bosco Camp, Northern and Southern Missions, and Rock the Mount.
• Stamps, Canadian Tire Money and Campbell Soup labels are collected and donated.
• Volunteers serve at Wascana Rehab, Marian Centre, Santa Maria – mission territory within our city limits.
• Fund raising activities were conducted to raise donations for Haiti Relief.

Lay Ministries

• Members have completed or are currently enrolled in Lay Ministry Formation Programs.
• Members are involved in all ministries in their parishes. They provide leadership and training programs to new recruits. They assist with music ministry. They help with summer camp programs and in Senior Homes.
• Members are involved in sacramental preparation programs, in children’s liturgy, Bible Studies, RCIA programs, they lead the Way of the Cross and other devotions.
• Members are lay presiders and lead communion services, vigil and wake services. They are active palliative care providers and pastoral care committee members. They organize memorial services for deceased members.

Ecumenism and Interfaith Endeavors

• Council members host, attend or participate in World Day of Prayer events.
• Individual councils report a member on a ministerial board, hosting ecumenical coffee parties, have members involved in ecumenical Lenten services.
• Councils host Advent and Lenten ecumenical prayer services and have interfaith choirs for funerals in their communities.
• Councils make use of web sites to learn and reach out.
• The Prayer Shawl Ministry was mentioned as an interfaith endevour.
• Members are involved in letter writing campaigns for various concerns of an ecumenical nature.
• Members serve as ecumenical representatives on their parish councils and attend workshops and programs to promote ecumenism.
• Councils attend and participate in interdenominational Remembrance Day services in their communities.

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Organization Annual Report
Tillie Aessie

Saskatchewan consists of three dioceses, namely, Prince Albert, The Arch Diocese of Regina and the Diocese of Saskatoon. We have 160 parish councils with 8125 members as of Jan 1st, 2010.

A) Recruit members and maintain membership

With the Membership Challenge from National office to increase our numbers, councils have reported increases in all three Dioceses. Parish councils have become innovative in the way they are recruiting members. Councils reported reaching out to RCIA candidates, new immigrants coming into their parish, making new recruitment posters, having membership brunches, socials or suppers. One council invited three different ladies who recently arrived from a foreign country to speak and to share about their homeland and their culture at a membership afternoon. This resulted in eleven more members joining the league. Handing out the “you can make a difference” cards was also a popular method. Some councils collect memberships through the Sunday envelope program. Most councils favor direct contact to renew and recruit new members.

Emailing members is also now a way to keep members in touch with council activities.

B) Leadership Development

Councils held work shops, one day spiritual retreats and special recognition evenings to educate and honor the good works of their members. Some of these include, “One in the Spirit” workshop, health care speakers, Youth with a mission, Lenten scripture studies, environmental issues, resolutions workshops and celebrating a Regional Our Lady of Good Counsel feast day.

Many members attend the Diocesan, Provincial and National Conventions because they enjoy renewing friendships, they learn more about the workings of the league, and are made more aware of women working together that can help change laws that affect our lives. One member exclaimed,’ I learned so much at this convention and had such an uplifting experience at Mass celebrating with 350 at Diocesan and 750 women at the National convention. It’s overwhelming!

C) League Resource Material

Some parish councils encourage reading and review articles from the league magazine at their meetings, as well as accessing the website’s e-newsletter. Councils are also using provincial website links to get some new ideas and to find more resource material, for example, prayer services. The “Leading the league” manual is the most used resource with website links to different prayer services and workshops next in line.

D) Annual Reports

Annual reports from all standing committees on the parish level are sent to the Diocesan standing committee chair who compiles it into a report, which then in turn sends it onto the provincial chair of that same standing committee, who makes up a report from all the dioceses and they in turn send their report to the provincial president and chair of organization. All the separate reports are than printed and made into a booklet to be handed out to all the parish councils at the Diocesan and Provincial conventions in their province. These booklets are good resource material for there are many good, new, fresh ideas contained in them.

E) Life Membership

Past presidents from provincial and National past executives are good resource people for their councils. In Saskatchewan we have four Honorary Life Members and eleven Life members. We recently lost Life member Therese Leclaire. May she rest in peace.

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Resolutions Annual Report

All three Diocesan reports indicate that at the Parish level there is an interest in Resolutions but that does not mean that there is a Resolutions Chair. I realize that some of the smaller councils can not fill all the positions and so some are doubled up or just left vacant, this is fine as long as the Parish Councils take the time to go over some of the Resolutions and discuss them.

Resolutions that were passed at National in 2009 were:

2009.01 Exit Strategies for Prostituted Persons.

2009.02 Protection and Support Services for foreign Victims of Human Trafficking.

2009.03 Hate Messages.

Letters were written to politicians and various business concerning these Resolutions. It has been brought to my attention that petitions via e-mail have been implemented, unfortunately these are totally ignored by all levels of government as they are not signed with the petitioners personal signature. It would be very easy for someone to sit down and forge names on a petition because there are no signatures, that is the reason that they are not accepted.

When we have a passion to make changes in our communities, provinces or nation this is where Resolutions come in to play. They start with a group of women sitting around discussing things that affect their everyday lives or the lives of others. Remember, we also have to be able to speak for those who are unable to speak for themselves or who are not allowed to speak for themselves. This is where Resolutions come into play. This is a chance to tell people who make our laws how we feel about various subjects.

Think about it for a minute, do we want our politicians passing laws that allow abortions to be performed on a whim. Would you want someone to terminate your life, just because they think that you don’t want to suffer any more? Here is your chance to make your feelings and Christian beliefs felt. Working with other women in the Catholic Women’s League ... as one voice ... forming Resolutions that have the backing of every one and being presented to the various levels of government, on your behalf. Resolutions are a very powerful tool, and they can bring around change.

Check out the National Catholic Women’s League website and see all the Resolutions that have been passed since 1920 ... it is amazing, to say the least. You can see where we have come from, and as we form new Resolutions today, you can see where we are going.

We are “Women of Peace and Hope” as we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, spreading His Love and Joy, helping one another as good Christian women always have.

Our Lady of Good Council, guide us as we strive to become better “women of peace and hope”.

This concludes my report.
Jean Reader

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Legislation Annual Report
Marcella Pedersen

Communication with the 3 Diocesan chairpersons has mainly been through email. I have received direct communication with two of the three, and only one report.

Diocesan chairpersons endeavoured to keep members informed about government issues and share concerns about current legislation and how it affects people at home and abroad. Much of the focus was on how legislation merged with League resolutions which form policy. However many councils do not have a legislation chairperson. Monitoring legislation nationally was very time consuming, but I/we tried to keep abreast. The hours spent on dial-up internet connections to monitor government websites was a concern for me. I still don’t know where to find what I am looking for on the government website. Every week there seemed to be some issue to write the Prime Minister about.

The preferred methods of influencing various levels of government were by letter writing or e-mailing. Some diocesan councils relied on written communication of resolutions approved at provincial and national levels. To facilitate communication, chairpersons provided names of members of parliament (MPs) and cabinet ministers concerning the issue involved. It was gratifying to note that most diocesan councils reported studying issues or at least passing on information from communiqués. In addition to monitoring federal legislation, I attended a Resolutions workshop as well as the CHAS Conference.

Monitor and study legislation at federal & provincial levels of government.

Federally, much attention was directed to Bill C-384. An act to amend the Criminal Code (the right to die with dignity) received first reading in the House of Commons on May 13, 2009. With the proroguing of Parliament, this Bill was suspended until Mar 1, 2010 because it is a private member’s bill.

Other Bills watched:

C-268 An act to amend the Criminal Code (minimum sentence for offences involving the trafficking of persons under the age of 18); C-205 An Act respecting the labelling of food products; C-311. Climate Change Accountability Act; C – 300: Holding Canadian registered mining companies accountable for their actions in foreign countries; C – 33: Agrofuel’s Food Sovereignty; C -13: Amend Canadian Grain Act (section 13) affecting the Canadian Grain Commission. If amended, the mandate and objects of the Commission would be changed which is not in the best interests of farmers, but will allow grade standards to be lessened and may result in Food Safety issues.

Members showed concern and monitored issues working on current and past resolutions related to strategies for prostituted persons, hate messages, and more recently changes to pension legislation which would reduce Canadian residency requirement for Old Age Pension from 10 years to 3 years; water rights under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA); uranium mining and the tar sands; urgent need for a Canadian energy policy; renewable energy; food safety, especially imported foods and genetically modified foods and seeds; torture of Afghanistan detainees; palliative care. Several councils indicated that they use articles in League Magazine as a basis for discussion.

Provincially members participated in the nuclear debate and submitted briefs to Dan Perrins’s public consultation process in response to the uranium Development Panel.

Shirley MacDougall, Legislation sub-committee wrote an excellent article in the Winter 2010 League Magazine. To quote: “Throughout Canada’s history, women have actively sought to shape society and have struggled for their rights as individuals and citizens….The struggle for a better life” has been the direction that spurred women on to fight and be a watch dog of Legislation since the beginning of Canada. Whether we are concerned about health care, human trafficking, environment, or the right of farmers to save seed, “Legislation is a source of hope for all of us in one way or another. We will all benefit from good legislation. We find hope and consolation living in a country where voicing our opinion to government is not only acceptable but respected. We live in a country where peace and hope live quietly together and where the League continues to challenge the status quo for the common good.”

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Christian Family Life Annual Report

Reports were received from the Regina Archdiocese and Saskatoon Diocese. Activities will be reported under the following headings:

Marriage and Family

• Members attended a new marriage preparation workshop (For Better and Forever)-this new concept of marriage preparation will be offered in the future.
• Assisting parents with religious education for their children and organizing activities for the children in the parish, an example is introducing them to the work of Development and Peace.
• Praying for all married couples, single parents and their families and promoting the family rosary.
• Provide gifts for needy families at Christmas time.
• Giving of a gift to fathers on Father’s Day and having a mass of thanksgiving for fathers.
• Support a family through the Save –a – Family plan.
• Providing lunch and entertainment at various church functions

Sanctity of Life

• BillC-384, An Act to Amend the Criminal Code (Right to Die with Dignity) will continue to be in the forefront in parliamentary discussions. Members were diligent in writing letters to their Members of Parliament on the topic of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide.
• Praying for the option for abortion to end and that BillC-384 will not come to a vote.
• Supporting Pro-Life Associations and Birthright with donations and prayers for the unborn babies. Marching for Life and distributing green ribbons.

Ministry of Youth

• Available for mentoring, encouraging and support to youth interested in joining a Catholic Youth Group.
• Prayers are said daily for the Youth of the Parish.
• Donations to the music festival and church youth camps, and youth retreats.
• Youth participation in the church ministry, for example being lectors ,and participating in special activities in Advent and May Devotions .Provide Scholarships for Grade Twelve Students.

Ministry to Seniors and Disabled

• Continue to focus on the Elderly by advocating and monitoring senior care programs ,housing ,and the services available for them.
• Provide transportation to church.
• Arrange social activities and entertainment for residents in nursing homes. Members visit CWLmembers living in special care homes.
• Deliver MEALS on Wheels to those in need.

Vocations

• Participate in The Year of the Priest honouring those who serve us in our parishes.
• Prayers for Vocations at daily Mass, at CWL meetings, and at home.
• Supporting seminarians through monetary donations, prayer and having masses said for Vocations.

Other Activities

• Plan and participate in the World Day of Prayer.
• Select appropriate gifts for Newly Weds ,RCIA, Newly Baptized, Confirmation and First Eucharist.
• Donate to Ronald McDonald House ,Saskatoon Interval House and St. Theresa Lido in Papua New Guinea.
• Volunteer at CWL clothing Depot.
• League members assist with funeral lunches.
• Volunteer to form a Honour Guard at funerals for League Members.

We are truly women of Peace and Hope who are striving to be the hands and feet, to carry on God’s work herein reaching out to others, our sisters and our neighbours in our church, our country and Third World Countries.

Respectively Submitted
Monica Beavis
Provincial Chairperson

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Communications Annual Report

This is my first report as a member of the Provincial Council. I hope that I am able to meet any concerns that members at the local level may have.

Saskatchewan only has three Dioceses. From those three only two have communications chairpersons. From those two I received one report, though through some other reports I have seen what councils have been doing.

Councils are busy with planning for the Feast of Our Lady of Good Council. Some have reported doing such things as giving a short talk on the League on the Sunday closest to the Feast day last year. Others had celebrations beginning with a Celebration of the Eucharist.

I have been told that the councils are finding the League Magazine very helpful and informative. Some are even using the CWL website more. The Saskatchewan Provincial Council has been working hard at setting up a website. It is now up and running. You may link to it through the National website or directly to www.cwlsk.ca

Most of the councils are using their parish bulletin, local newspaper, league magazine and the website to keep informed. I have seen from the league magazine that some articles from Saskatchewan councils have been published.

One item I have noticed is that many councils are slow to use the words committee instead of convenership. Chairperson instead of convener. This has been changed now for several years and we all need to work on using the new terms.

I as well as other chairpersons of committees have heard of the concern of encouraging new members to join the league. I know that great strides have been made and are being made to work on this so as to keep our council active.

Hope to meet you all at the Provincial and National Conventions.

God Bless
Submitted by,
Helen Kayfish
Chair of Communications
Saskatchewan Provincial Council

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COMMUNITY LIFE ANNUAL REPORT
Marlene Schnell

I received two out the three annual reports from my Diocesan counterparts. These were very well compiled and will give my report from them. As you will see we have very busy councils who are involved in the parish & community. Not all councils have this convenorship, but may still do community work in their council.

Dignity and Rights of Persons:

• Financial donations given to Hope’s Home, Sophia House, Telemiracle, Early Learning Centre, Coady Institute, Rachael’s Vineyard , Teen Aid, Visitation House and financial help given to a member whose husband was undergoing cancer treatment.
• Serve at funeral lunches and serve as Honour guard for a member’s funeral.
• Support Pro-Life in the Chain for Life Sunday and through prayer.
• Send get well, sympathy and anniversary cards as well visit the sick, shut-ins and those in palliative care and serve as Eucharistic ministers to the sick and shut-ins.


• Ministries to the youth
  • Recruit young people .for altar servers, readers
  • Support youth camps and leadership training


• Help young single and separated moms with support such as babysitting and words of encouragement.

Community Services: [Social and Economic Justice]

• Volunteer at Habitat for Humanity and the Meals on Wheels program
• Christmas hampers collected and donated to needy families
• Assist with community based charities such as Birthright and clothing depot
• Organize and participate in: WRAP White Ribbon Against Pornography
• Pamper baskets of bath products to local Women’s shelters, as well blankets, quilts, baby clothes
• Christmas Gift Wrapping for Canadian Mental Health fund raising
• Volunteer for various community functions such as Relay for Life, Terry Fox Run, H1N1 clinics and canvassing door to door for various charities
• Volunteer at nursing homes through visiting, Bingos, birthday parties
• Volunteering and donating food to the local Food Bank
• Prison Ministry
• Tab from cans collected to give to the hospitals which buys wheelchairs
• Collecting toys for Friendship Inn
• Assisting at the parish bazaar and many other parish or community events
• Gifts for Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation

Social & Economic Justice

• Attending and participating in International Women’s day services and World Day of Prayer and Christian unity week services
• Letter writing to government re: justice issues and human rights such as Human Trafficking, Pornography [WRAP] and Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia.

Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship

• Helped our Social Justice Committee with needs of new refugees


• Collected non perishable items for Salvation Army for needy families
• Welcomed refugee families into our community and collected household articles to donate to them
• Charity quilts were made and delivered to the needy
• Assisted in setting up an apartment with all requirements for a nurse who moved from the Philippines to nurse in Montmartre. Welcomed and helped with needs of new refugees, such as clothing and household articles.
• Participated in Ecumenical Week activities of soup and prayer

Canadian Catholic Organization for Development & Peace

• Contribute to D&P through our parish campaign and fundraising events such as clothing sales, having a birthday box where a penny is put in for the number of years old you are, most put in a loonie and hosting a “hunger or poverty” supper.
• Signing cards D&P sends out to support various causes in developing countries such as encouraging mining companies to maintain and uphold Canadian standards in developing countries

Developing Countries:

• Purchased 2 goats for “Food for the Hungary Campaign International”
• Support a foster child in Paraguay, adopt a family in India [Save a Family Plan] and sponsoring a child or family through “Chalice”
• Donations to Fr. Dupourt to build schools, churches, water wells in Africa and Nigeria
• Organize collection of Christmas shoe boxes for distribution in developing countries.
• Donations made to Maquiuila, Solidarity, Coady, MaterCare, Catholic Missions, WUCWO, Rainbow of Children, Cuernavaca project in Mexico, Sr. Fernande Barmabe, Esk-Omi Missions, Haiti, Chile, Missions in Africa and Northern Missions
• Collect used eye glasses for distribution to third world countries
• Knitted Teddy bears to be sent to developing countries
• Stamps are collected for the Franciscan missionary who sell them and with money received help the poor
• Sent money to countries where clean water and medical supplies are needed

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Education and Health Annual Report

Marge Szabo

Catholic Schools and Catechesis

There are many Catholic schools in each diocese. They are operated by a Catholic School Board and tax supported by families. The Catholic Women’s League participates in attending meetings, assisting at school with nutrition programs, reading programs and fund raising events and many other volunteer programs.

For catechesis, members assist in preparing children and adults for the sacraments. Many councils gave gifts such as rosaries, prayer books, Bibles, etc. Often, CWL councils prepared lunches for retreats, and special occasions, also providing the décor for these events. Fund raising provided assistance for children and youth to attend camps such as Camp Monahan, Camp Lemieux, Camp Kenosee and Camp Easter Seal.

Rites of Christian Initiation (RCIA)

Most of the councils are fully involved in every aspect of RCIA. Members are presenters, coordinators, sponsors as well as providing financial support. One council reported that a CWL member gave a report about our organization and extended an invitation for the ladies to join the League. A few councils host the reception after the Easter Vigil.

Literacy and Continuing Education

While some provinces had funding decreased for literacy programs, Saskatchewan announced $535,000 to address local literacy needs. It was mainly allocated to 15 communities throughout Saskatchewan. This allowed members to take courses, participate in learning centers, to learn about computers and modern technology. Many members are engaged in teaching English to immigrants either at schools or in their homes. One council started a traveling library and books were exchanged at the council meetings. They reported a very good response. Education and literacy is encouraged by a variety of topics by guest speakers to CWL meetings. Topics like Heart and Stroke, Health Issues, Senior Safety and Social Justice issues are all literacy moments.

Scholarship and Bursaries

Regina Archdiocese offers a $750.00 scholarship to a son/daughter of a member for first year studies at Campion, University of Regina. Saskatchewan Provincial offers $1000.00 in the area of Social Justice. Many of the councils provide high school awards and grade school spirit recognition awards. One council had a cupcake sale in the month of August to provide funding for a NET Ministries youth from the parish. Awards are also given to music festival participants. Many members are volunteers at such events. A large percentage of councils donate to COADY Institute to develop leaders in foreign countries. Many members have taken advantage of the National Bursary Funds to take courses in a variety of educational areas.

Wellness and Sickness

Saskatchewan is fortunate to have the Catholic Hospital Association of Saskatchewan, to lobby the government and to maintain a Catholic influence in health care. Many councils subscribe to their annual membership fee and take part in their conventions. Many hours of time are given to nursing homes, palliative care homes, community clinics and transporting people to care facilities. This year, many volunteers were needed to administer the H1N1 Flu vaccine. Some councils have provided music therapy and entertainment for the shut-ins. In June of 2009, Saskatchewan announced funding for a Provincial Bereavement Centre in Regina, offering counseling, education and teaching services for the volunteers. This ties in with Pastoral Care and the many contacts with terminally ill patients and their families. Again CWL members are part of this caring program. Members are given up- dates on information on Triclosan, H1N1 Flu and label reading. A healthy life style is encouraged for all.

Environment

In the spring, our #1 topic in Saskatchewan was the possibility of having a nuclear plant built in the province. Saskatchewan is the world’s largest uranium producer but doesn’t have a refinery or power plant. CWL members wrote letters to the government voicing their concerns. The bishops of Saskatchewan also wrote letters to this effect. Letters were also written to commend the government for increasing wind power for sustainable electricity for the future.

Many members and households changed their home toilets for the low flush, thus saving water. A $50.00 rebate was given for this venture. Most of the councils now practise and encourage “Go Green”, using glass instead of Styrofoam, cloth bags for groceries, using water in a reusable containers and not throw away water bottles. Every little effort helps. This is well advertised and good results are happening.

Genetics

More education is needed in this area. Many of the councils had no reports in this section. One council reported the good article on stem cell research in the COLF magazine. Many members are becoming aware of this through the Pro Life Organization. One council in the Prince Albert Diocese is very informed about seed control, regulation of supplements added to animal feed and genetically modified foods. When you have a member advocate, then you are exposed to information to help make an informed decision. Letter writing is a key component to give your views to governments.

This concludes my summary of the three dioceses in Saskatchewan. It is amazing to see the scope and breadth of this committee work. It takes compassion and faith to carry out this work. We are truly the hands and feet of Jesus, extending our love and help to others.

Our members extended their FAITH, gave their energies to have FUN, and are content with the FULFILLMENT of their tasks. Yes, we are all proud members of the Catholic Women’s League of Canada.

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Archives Annual Report
Yvonne Colleaux

Reports were received from the three Diocesan Past Presidents. Prince Albert admits receiving no reports. Regina and Saskatoon received 28 and 27 reports respectively. This represents only a portion of the councils. Keep in mind that archives constitutes the permanent record of your council’s activities. It is important that archives be kept current. The longer you wait to update archives, the more will be forgotten.

However, the reports received represent the good work being done. In summary, the following are kept:

• Minutes of general and executive meetings
• A record of presidents, executive members, spiritual advisors complete with their years as officers and their addresses
• A yearly list of paid-up members
• A record (by year) of service awards (pins or certificates of merit)
• Scrapbooks/albums all with dates of events, ensuring that the names of all persons in photos are recorded
• Written histories

The reports mention the role of the past president encouraging councils to utilize her expertise on issues of policy and procedure as well as on protocol. Generally, but not in every council, she is the archivist. In election years, she is in charge of nominations and elections. Her contact with council members during her tenure gives her the knowledge of the capabilities of the women she worked with and the skills they have to be successful as a member of the executive team. So, when she approaches you to serve on the executive do not say an immediate ‘No’ but take the time to seriously consider the request.

Regina Archdiocesan Past President Marge Szabo mentions the article by National Past President Lorette Noble in the Winter 2010 issue of The League magazine: ‘It Only Takes a Spark’ that gives an overview of our early beginnings. Lorette ends her article saying, ‘We are Women of Peace and Hope and, above all, women of action.’ We have a rich history – let us record it and pass it on.

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