The Canadian League

Official Publication of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada Volume 89/No. 3/Fall 2013

Printed in Canada NATIONAL EXECUTIVE TABLE OF CONTENTS

OFFICERS President’s Message...... 1 Spiritual Advisor: Most. Rev. William McGrattan, Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto Introducing National Spiritual Advisor William McGrattan...... 2 President: Betty Anne Brown Davidson Highlights of Annual National Convention...... 3 President-elect: Barb Dowding 1st Vice-President: Mary Nordick We Are Not Alone ...... 7 2nd Vice-President: Cecile Miller Secretary-Treasurer: Judy Lewis Oral Reports from the 93rd Annual National Convention...... 9 Past President: Velma Harasen Pornography Hurts!...... 18 Spiritual Development: Mary Nordick Organization: Barb Dowding Congratulations to 2013 Bursary Recipients ...... 31 Christian Family Life: Margaret Ann Jacobs Community Life: Fran Lucas Annual Disbursement of National Voluntary Funds...... 31 Education and Health: Peggy Roche League Delegation Welcomed to Parliament Hill ...... 32 Communications: Cecile Miller Resolutions: Shari Guinta 93rd Annual National Convention Resolutions...... 34 Legislation: Anne Gorman Letters to the Editor...... 34 Laws: Velma Harasen International Relations: Betty Anne Brown Davidson Preparing Future CWL Members...... 36

PRESIDENTS OF PROVINCIAL COUNCILS Introducing Dorothy Johansen...... 37 Alberta Mackenzie: Dorothy Johansen Introducing Monica Brechka...... 37 B.C. & Yukon: Doreen Gowans Manitoba: Monica Brechka Military Ordinariate: Donna Penney New Brunswick: Marion Fogan The

Canadian RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO Newfoundland and Labrador: Rita Janes CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT C-702 SCOTLAND AVENUE WINNIPEG, MB R3M 1X5 Nova Scotia: Debbie Samson League E-MAIL: [email protected] Ontario: Betty Colaneri Prince Edward Island: Barbara MacFarlane Quebec: Suzanne Wiseman Saskatchewan: Marge Szabo PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40007536

Official Publication of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada Volume 89/No. 3/Fall 2013

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Printed in Canada

Kim Scammell, CA Photos courtesy of Rob Bredin and Cynthia Schultz C-702 Scotland Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3M 1X5 Tel: (204) 927-2310 Toll-Free: (888) 656-4040 Fax: (204) 927-2321 Toll-Free: (888) 831-9507 E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.cwl.ca National Office Staff Directory Executive Director: Kim Scammell...... [email protected] EDITORIAL BOARD (national executive and policy) National Chairperson of Communications: Membership Coordinator: Diane Havens...... [email protected] Cecile Miller (membership renewals, changes and years of service) National President: Betty Anne Brown Davidson Office Assistant: Janice Jones...... [email protected] Executive Director: Kim Scammell (bursaries, Book of Life, parish council records, archives) Senior Accounting Clerk: Valroy Anderson...... [email protected] (orders and per capita fees) The Canadian League is published three times a year by The Catholic Women’s League of Canada. Material may Communications Assistant: Erica Johnson...... [email protected] not be reprinted, in whole or in part, without permission (magazine, e-newsletter, social media, website) of the publisher. Subscription rates: Annual national per Executive Assistant: Erica Johnson...... [email protected] capita fee of $13.00 includes subscription rate of $3.00. (life members and resolutions) Non-members, $8.00 per year. Agreement number 40007536 All other inquiries should be sent to...... [email protected] ISSN-0384-630 for forwarding to the appropriate respondent. Printed in Canada President’s Message

Betty Anne Brown Davidson National President

hey asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning the closing mass, Auxiliary Bishop William McGrattan (Toronto) within us while He was talking with us on the was installed as the national spiritual advisor and guide for the road, while He was opening the scriptures to us?” next five years. (Note how the Lord fulfills His promise to always (Lk 24.32) This quote from the incident on the road be with us.) Tto Emmaus after the resurrection of Jesus echoed in the hearts of Participants were fortunate to have a different bishop members as the annual national convention evolved in Regina. celebrate mass over each of five days. In their homilies, they set As you will read in the magazine, the speakers were varied and hearts ablaze with hope, stressed the importance of family, urged stimulating. They shed light on different perspectives of the members to go out and evangelize, celebrated the diversity of theme We Have Seen the Lord! God’s gifts and people, and assured members of Mary’s comfort • Sr. Fay Trombley introduced participants to the and guidance in their desire to grow closer to her Son. Inuvialuit people to whom she ministers. The gathering prayers showed a great variety as well. Some • Louise Tessier, a ceramic artist, spoke of manifesting the were short and to the point, while others taught lessons using light of the Lord in art. acted vignettes. • The importance of sharing personal Two resolutions were adopted and authorization was given testimony of how Jesus guides us for the national executive to write important was modelled courageously by a letters opposing female gendercide that panel of honorary life members. could occur with the possibility of sex • Bishop Emeritus Gerald Wiesner selective abortion in Canada. (Prince George) affirmed the In the oral reports of provincial important role of women in the presidents and national officers, you church. will note the wholehearted generosity of • With simple stories, Fr. Bill Burke members to various voluntary projects and taught that Christ saves us again activities. In order to advance members’ and again and again as we walk the education and awareness of Christians in road of our lives. He challenged the Holy Land, Velma’s Dream, charities participants to recapture Sundays supported through Catholic Near East as the day of the Lord. Welfare Association (CNEWA), has become • Kathryn Perry drew participants’ a temporary voluntary fund until December attention to the parallel between 31, 2016. the words of the founder of The mass collection of $5,633.66 was the Sisters of Service, Catherine split evenly between Visitation House in Donnelly, and the words of League Regina and a fund for building a residence members, hinting that we are one in for schoolgirls in Ghana (Marty’s Dream). spirit. The organizing committee provided memories of thoughtful • The lurking danger of ovarian cancer was exposed by cooperation, attention to detail, contagious enthusiasm and member Anne Chase. entertainment to warm our hearts. We look forward to meeting • Maribeth Stewart spoke of the successes and plans of next August in Fredericton, New Brunswick, and savouring east the League’s worldwide affiliate, the World Union of coast hospitality. As women of JOY (Jesus-Others-You), refreshed Catholic Women’s Organizations. from our time together and enlightened by the Lord’s grace, we Archbishop Martin Currie (St. John’s) has been a faithful look forward to our continuing journey in the League. and inspirational national spiritual advisor for the past five years. Go tell everyone; encounter Him in prayer, the sacraments At this convention his term ended, and the national executive and in others; and minister to one another with hearts on fire set him free to fully minister to his flock in Newfoundland. At with love. Why? Because, We Have Seen the Lord! >

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 1 Introducing National Spiritual Advisor Auxiliary Bishop William McGrattan (Toronto)

e Have Seen the Lord! being evangelized. This was the three-fold goal of the Year We are coming to the end of the Year of Faith of Faith: to renew our profession, the understanding of our which was inaugurated on the 50th anniversary faith; to celebrate faith through deepening our call to holiness of the opening of Second Vatican Council. through prayer, the sacraments and integrating these into our WThis was an extraordinary event. It “was a Council on faith, daily lives; and to witness our faith through lives of sacrifice inasmuch as it asked us to restore the primacy of God in Christ and service which become an invitation to others to encounter to the centre of our lives, both as a Church and as individuals” Christ. It is my hope that the personal and communal gift of (Lumen Fidei). The theme of this year’s faith expressed through the annual national convention is We League has been renewed Have Seen the Lord! This is a biblical during this Year of Faith, and statement of faith which records an has borne much fruit within extraordinary event in the life of the members’ families, parishes early church. We hear these words and communities. proclaimed every year during the As I take up the Easter Season. It is found on the responsibility as national lips of the two disciples who return spiritual advisor I am with confidence to Jerusalem, having reminded of my episcopal encountered the risen Lord on the motto “Trust in the Lord.” road to Emmaus. This encounter Each of us who take on renewed in them the original gift of a new responsibility find faith which had become tested in ourselves like the Emmaus the challenges they faced, in their disciples being invited to disappointment and discouragement trust in the Lord, the one at the circumstances of their life. It who is calling us and was the risen Lord who first came sending us forth in the to them, who walked with them witness of faith. I am sure and in doing so allowed them to my “eyes will be opened” express their longing and desires for in this new role as I walk the presence of God. The Lord was with you. Although I have present to them in the word that He had limited experience in spoke which remained “burning in parishes as a priest, I have their hearts” and in the bread that sought to make up for this was broken which “opened their as a bishop. As a young eyes”. This extraordinary encounter priest the importance and of faith is a sign of the Eucharist, the presence of the League was enduring presence of Christ within impressed upon me through the heart of the church. its involvement in the many Every encounter with Christ aspects of the parish. Social should lead us as individuals and as a church to echo the words justice, advocacy and outreach to communities across Canada We Have Seen the Lord! in new and convincing ways. It is an has become an integral dimension of how the League is a ongoing demand of the Christian life to evangelize, to announce witness of Christian faith and the Catholic church in Canadian the good news as an encounter with Christ, with joy, confidence society. It is for these reasons that I know my heart will begin to and conviction. However, we as Christians in our present culture burn with desire as I encounter the Lord through the work and can’t evangelize unless we ourselves have first been open to mission of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada.V

2 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Highlights of Annual National Convention Amanda McCormick and Erica Johnson Guest Journalists

hat is hope? Is hope a wish, desire, a source In his homily, Archbishop Daniel Bohan (Regina) spoke of or likelihood of success? Or is hope a gift, faith and hope. He encouraged members to “let their journey an unseen spiritual force within us that through life be carried on the wings of hope,” to be a light for encourages us to dig deep when faced with young people in despair and for those without hope. “Faith,” adversitiesW or challenges? Archbishop Bohan proclaimed, “is the conviction of things not Holy Rosary Cathedral was the gathering place for worship seen; faith gives us assurance that we can hope.” Members’ eyes at the 93rd annual national convention. The atmosphere inside shone brightly following the homily, and a renewed sense of was filled with quiet laughter and soft greetings to one another faith and conviction resonated in each member’s heart. What as members from across Canada celebrated the official opening a perfect beginning for this year’s gathering of Catholic women ceremonies on August 11th. Light shone through the immaculate celebrating faith, fun and fulfillment. stained glass windows adorning the cathedral, a welcome The ceremonies concluded with National President Betty change from recent cloudy days. Fr. John Weckend (Regina) Anne Brown Davidson welcoming those in attendance and attributed the clear skies to the arrival of spirited members, affirming the Lord is smiling on them. Betty Anne likened commenting, “you are a ray of sunshine.” Throughout the week, attending a League convention to coming home to family, members would also prove to be rays of hope, passion, faith and assuring each member present that like each twig found by a excitement. barn swallow building a nest, they had something to contribute. An uplifting procession of national executive members The festivities had already begun as members attended The entered the cathedral, with each provincial president carrying the Country Hoedown & Western Buffet at the Conexus Arts Centre flag of her province. A sense of pride in her province, members on August 10th. Proving that age is just a number, members took and the League emanated from each flag bearer. The presence of part in spirited line dancing lessons to lively music. Prior to spiritual advisors from across the nation signified the church in opening mass, members boarded buses to experience the true Canada celebrates the work of the League. beauty of Regina. Riders were taken around the heart of the city

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 3 and visited Wascana Centre, a stunning, park-like setting surrounding Wascana Lake. The vibrant colours and fragrances of flowers in the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens provided a treat to the senses as members were surrounded by little pieces of paradise. Members then visited the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Academy, Depot Division, where all RCMP officers begin their journey toward serving. August 12th began with a Eucharistic celebration led by Bishop Albert Thévenot (Prince Albert). Heavenly voices from the choir rejoiced, reminding members of the sacredness of the church. “Share the Lord in your gentleness, love and care,” encouraged Bishop Thévenot, “to your children and grandchildren, and to the world which is so in need of understanding, support and forgiveness.” Be daring and be bold because you love the Lord, His Excellency hinted as he spoke of St. Jane Frances de Chantal. In a tender homage to the memory of those who joined our Saviour in eternal peace this past year, provincial presidents had the honour of laying one red rose representing the deceased members of the province. Celebrating the lives of departed spiritual advisors and thanking them one last time for their guidance, Betty Anne placed one white rose in their memory.

4 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 A short break was given, providing time for members We Have Seen the Lord! The panel of honorary life members and guests to reflect. Sr. Fay Trombley, a Roman Catholic captivated the audience as poignant, individual encounters with missionary stationed in Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, the Lord were shared. Tender moments in the lives of these opened her arms to embrace the hundreds of members and treasured members were voiced, inspiring the audience to discover guests in the room, announcing, “what a powerhouse of their own encounters with Christ. Sharing her story, Irene Lefort faith and love and joy.” Her address, Being Missionary in the spoke of Jesus appearing at the top of a mountain, telling her Arctic Today, focused on the Inuvialuit and Inuit peoples of “I’m not through with you yet.” Danielle McNeil-Hessian moved the north. Sr. Fay beamed when speaking of the children she everyone with her memories from the day her son Robert was in works with, revealing her reason for addressing the audience an accident, how she saw the Lord during his recovery and in was to help members “touch a part of the Arctic” and truly those who were with him that day. understand the people who call it their home. Sr. Fay alluded Marking the first day of business, August 13th began with a that “to be a presence” is the key to missionary work in the Eucharistic celebration led by Bishop Donald Bolen (Saskatoon). north. “Who are the people I spend my time with and what Guest speaker Fr. Bill Burke, priest from the diocese of Antigonish good news do they need to hear?” she asks herself regularly. and former director of the National Liturgy Office for the Leaving those gathered with some thoughts, Sr. Fay explained Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), spoke of the “the land forms the people”-- people who live by the sun and Year of Faith, conversion and Sundays. Beginning his address to the seasons, people who love to laugh, and people who need members, Fr. Burke cautioned he gets very angry when people hope. refer to the League as a group known for making sandwiches. “If Successive addresses were made by artist Louise Tessier, I were a politician in this room right now,” he said as he looked Bishop Emeritus Gerald Wiesner and honorary life members at the crowd of members and guests gathered, “I would be very Irene Lefort, Claire Heron, Agnes Bedard and Danielle nervous.” Urging members to “be a source of hope, not just when McNeil-Hessian. Louise Tessier’s presentation, Witnessing it’s easy,” he explained each person is worthy of God’s love and to Faith through Art, evoked one’s thoughts by tapping into conversion is an ongoing process, requiring re-birth time and the senses, asking members and guests to imagine standing again. Issuing a challenge, Fr. Burke asked those in attendance to in a garden, catching wafts of rose petals. Louise spoke reclaim Sundays. “We have got to recover the gift of Sunday,” he of her struggles to have her Christian-based art displayed proclaimed. Sharing the words of a woman who had once been a in public galleries. Letting her faith guide her, Louise has slave he said, “On Sundays, we were allowed to live like human not lost hope. Despite the challenges, she continues to beings.” Sundays are not just a day away from work, Fr. Burke express herself through art, sharing her gifts with those declared, but “a day spent in the kingdom.” around her. Following Fr. Burke’s speech, Betty Anne called the business Bishop Emeritus Gerald Wiesner spoke to members and session to order. New life members were commissioned, receiving guests proclaiming, “the church needs you; you are dedicated, a touching salute and blessing from the audience. Called forth wonderful and enthusiastic missionaries.” Supporting the were Carol Richer, Marlin Taylor, Mary-Margaret Patterson, Pat League Object of enhancing the role of women in church, Deppiesse, Lodia Cormier, Mary Jane Yaeger, Patricia Rivest and His Excellency noted in each extraordinary intervention from Tillie Aessie. Following the day’s oral reports, members joined Christ that has occurred throughout history, a woman has their provincial sisters for dinner. been involved.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 5 August 14th marked a satisfying final day of convention. Guest speaker Anne Chase, a 15-year cancer survivor, spoke of her battle with ovarian cancer. Maribeth Stewart, vice- president for North America of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations, encouraged members and guests to continue celebrating their faith by attending the WUCWO Regional Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Kathryn Perry spoke about the impact Catherine Donnelly had not only on the Sisters of Service but also on the church in Canada. The remaining oral reports were presented with resolutions sparking a passionate, respectful debate. Cecile Miller, national chairperson of communications, introduced the “Pornography Hurts” campaign, providing members with postcards to send to the minister of justice and attorney general of Canada, and local members of parliament. Members attending the closing Eucharistic celebration bid a fond farewell to National Spiritual Advisor Archbishop Martin Currie (St. John’s) and welcomed Auxiliary Bishop William McGrattan (Toronto) as the new national spiritual advisor. Archbishop Currie presented his homily and, reflecting back on the day’s business sessions mused, “We don’t all think alike, thank God.” Musical voices filled the air, jubilantly and powerfully, as they celebrated the conclusion of the 93rd annual national convention.V

6 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 We Are Not Alone Homily at the Closing Mass of the 93rd Annual National Convention

Most Rev. Martin W. Currie, Archbishop of St. John’s

he gospel reading (Mt. 18.15-20) and the Old forward. His truck was wedged pretty tight. He heard a young Testament reading (Dt. 34.1-19) the church gives voice calling to him from the top of the bridge. He looked up us for today seem to have somewhat tangential and saw a young boy. “Well,” he said, “What would you do?” links to the event we are celebrating—the gathering, The little boy shot back a creative and doable solution. “Let Tclosing and now the sending forth of members and spiritual the air out of your tires, mister. That should do the trick!” advisors of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada. We One of the greatest challenges in the church today, and have come together in these past days from all over Canada. in any group associated with the church, is how to welcome We have met new people and rekindled old friendships. We and celebrate diversity. We have to be open to other voices, have celebrated and deliberated. We have glimpsed the power the voices of new ways, of thoughts and opinions different that is unleashed when the representatives of the largest from our own. We are in danger of becoming more and more women’s association in Canada gathers. We have renewed polarized. our certainty that together, we are the mystical body of Christ. As the church and Canada become increasingly diverse— Together we can accomplish infinitely more than we can alone. economically, chronologically, culturally, ethnically, politically, The readings for this Feast of St. Maximilian Kolbe socially and religiously—I believe we must look to Matthew’s speak well to this sending forth we celebrate today. The advice and find ways to talk together, hear each other out and gospel speaks about rules for good order. Matthew was the explore ways through difficulties and misunderstandings. evangelist who had a rich background as both a government We must do this, as Matthew says, face-to-face. We must official, tax collector and official of the synagogue, a scribe. In use all means available to come to greater clarity, sensitivity, today’s gospel, Matthew sets out procedures to be followed understanding and respect. We have to find ways to hear and in case of a disagreement among the disciples. It’s good celebrate those voices coming at us from the top of the bridge, to know that disagreements in the church are not a recent offering new ideas. development! If Matthew were here among us for these days In the first reading, we heard the moving story of the death of meetings, we might have drafted him onto our resolutions of Moses. For those of us who are older, this story is poignant. or communications committees. After 40 years of leading his people through the desert, guiding Where two or three Christians gather, there will be them through their complaining and disputes, and forming conflict. It has been ever thus. This is one of the quirks of them into God’s people, Moses dies, just as the people are human nature. It is one of our greatest trials, and at the same poised to enter the Promised Land. After all his life’s work, time, one of our greatest sources of strength—we don’t all Moses is denied the opportunity to walk with his people into think alike! It is good that we do not all think alike, because the Land of Canaan. there is more than one side to every story, and the more This experience of Moses is one we all share as we learn minds and hearts we have working on the facets of any to deal with diversity. Sometimes we don’t get our own way. problem or issue, the more likely we are to find a creative Sometimes we might be there at the start of a process, but and life-giving way forward. we don’t get to see its conclusion. There is a famous prayer There is a story told of the driver of a flatbed truck who attributed to Archbishop Oscar Romero that contains a line was trying to drive his rig under a bridge. His trailer was that comes to my mind here, fully loaded with a bungalow which was being relocated “This is what we are about: across the province. He approached a bridge that looked We plant seeds that one day will grow. to him to be a bit low but upon assessment he believed he We water seeds already planted, could make it. Unfortunately, he had miscalculated slightly, knowing that they hold future promise. and the house got jammed beneath the bridge. It was just a We lay foundations that will need further development. little too tight. Perplexed, he got out to assess the situation, We provide yeast that produces effects wondering what to do. He could go neither backward nor beyond our capabilities.”

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 7 Each one of us is responsible for doing our bit. No one among us. We are sent forth from this place renewed and of us is responsible for everything. Over time, our projects, challenged to build God’s reign in our homes and places of resolutions and efforts will bear fruit, but we may never see work, recreation and worship. the end result of our labour just as Moses did not. We are We are called from here to be the aged Moses who blesses not responsible for the end. We are only responsible for the new young leader, Joshua. We are called to go forth doing what we can while we can with love, fidelity, openness, with renewed commitment as the people of Israel, entering the Promised Land. We are called to go forth in a spirit of generosity and respect. welcoming, celebrating and struggling with diversity as did So, the readings we heard today offer much fodder for Matthew’s early Christian community. We are called to go reflection as we leave. Gathered in this place, we can easily forth in hope. hear in our hearts the words of Jesus from today’s gospel, As we move from this table of the word to the table of the “… where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there Eucharist, let us be ever mindful that we are not alone. We among them.” In these past days we have heard God’s word, have our brothers and sisters on the journey, and we are fed, recognized the presence of Jesus in one another and known nurtured and sustained by Jesus who walks with us every step the power of the Holy Spirit. God has truly been present of the way. V

Welcome NEW and Returning National Executive!

Front Row L To R: Mary Nordick, Barbara Dowding, Betty Anne Brown Davidson, Bishop William McGrattan, Velma Harasen, Judy Lewis, Cecile Miller Middle Row L To R: Anne Gorman, Margaret Ann Jacobs, Fran Lucas, Rita Janes, Barbara MacFarlane, Marion Fogan, Suzanne Wiseman, Peggy Roche, Shari Guinta Top Row L To R: Kim Scammell, Betty Colaneri, Doreen Gowans, Debbie Samson, Donna Penney, Monica Brechka, Dorothy Johansen, Marge Szabo Returning national officers and new and returning provincial presidents reaffirmed their commitment to serve the church through The Catholic Women’s League Of Canada. Their recommitment was welcomed as was their gift of faith, trust and service.

8 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Oral Reports The following oral reports were given at the 93rd annual national convention in Regina, Saskatchewan. They may have been edited to fit space available.

to represent the League as an observer at the Canadian President Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Plenary Session in Mont Gabriel, Quebec; to present the 2012 Resolutions Brief to various ministries of the federal government in Ottawa Betty Anne Brown Davidson with National Chairperson of Resolutions Shari Guinta and Wellington, Ontario National Chairperson of Legislation Anne Gorman; and to accompany the governor general’s official party to Rome for “Those who believe, see; the inaugural mass of Pope Francis. they see with a light that The national executive spent time discerning a focus for illumines their entire journey, the new theme, We Have Seen the Lord! and came up with for it comes from the risen the idea of “go tell everyone, offering ourselves opportunities Christ, the morning star for encounter with Jesus in others, demonstrated by acts of which never sets” (Lumen Fidei). mercy.” When I think of this past year, I think of travel and This was followed by an intense discernment of the hospitality. Monthly, in Be League, I have diarized my visits aboriginal situation in Canada. The importance of building with members in Hastings, Ontario; Williams Lake, British bridges of friendship with local native communities seems Columbia; Peterborough, Ontario; Humboldt, Saskatchewan; to be emerging as a powerful next step. Summerside, Prince Edward Island; Quebec City, Quebec; Members have embraced the Year of Faith and new Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador; Calgary, evangelization in the church as they studied their bibles, Alberta; Ottawa, Ontario; Waterloo, Ontario; and Thunder catechisms and the documents of Vatican II. Discussion Bay, Ontario. groups have fostered the idea that, as the people of God Joy was the gift shared in each of these provinces as and the presence of Jesus in the world today, they each we journeyed, dined and prayed together. We shared have an important role to play. So members have to ask intimate Jesus stories and members showed me the unique themselves, “What can I do?” or “How can we create the geographical features of their corners of Canada. The ideal conditions so God’s presence can grow and nurture aboriginal people have a saying, to “truly understand another His people?” person we must walk a mile in their moccasins.” My heart Thanks to the expertise of Erica Johnson, the beat in tune with their dilemmas and delights. I could see communications expert at national office, we entered the and understand how the League works for them. age of social media with the launch of Facebook and Twitter Enthusiasm for Catch the Fire! ignited a burning interest accounts. Advertising and public relations also contributed as women were welcomed to cherish the faith, fun and to keeping our message front and centre in the public forum. fulfillment of membership. Members are hungry for more, We are most grateful to Kim Scammell, the executive and so we look forward to the follow up program called director, as she acted on our behalf with lawyers, insurance S’mores and its surprises. Our “fire starters” (Catch the Fire! agents, investors and federal bureaucrats in examining the facilitators) certainly seemed to enjoy themselves as they lit requirements of the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act sparks and shared stories with members from near and far. and the Catholic Women’s League Leadership Foundation. Building bridges of friendship and being present to She also dealt with other serious matters as they arose over others was a benefit as the League sent representatives to the year. conferences dealing with the challenges of resettlement Archbishop Martin Currie (St. John’s) has been a of refugees, trafficking of women and children, end-of-life prayerful and a constant national spiritual advisor not only issues, the reality of Canada’s indigenous peoples, the this year, but over the past five years. We will thank him Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace, properly at the closing banquet. and Catholic education in Canada. End-of-life issues continue to challenge us, especially It was my privilege to listen to the concerns and reflections in the provinces of British Columbia and Quebec. When of our American sisters at the National Council of Catholic meeting with the federal government this year, the delegation Women’s annual conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; did not meet with as many high profile government

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 9 ministers or the prime minister, but this may actually have Faith & Justice. These themes are part of the spiritual tradition been a good thing because it gave the delegation a chance to we need to have. Without them we will not see the face of have more relaxed conversations with several policy advisors, the Lord. executive assistants, and pro-life backbenchers. These are The spiritual advisors spoke about the changing face often the people who do the work in government. It is good of Canada and the need to be patient. Many immigrant to put a face to a name and for them to realize the sincere communities are filled with faith, but women from these concerns of members across Canada. communities cannot be expected to join the League The welcoming smiles, hugs of recognition and tidbits immediately because they’re new and trying to put down of advice offered to me by our bishops and priests as I roots and establish themselves in the country while travelled into their territories affirmed my faith and belief in sometimes working multiple jobs. We hope and pray in the the League’s efforts. It made me realize how important the next few years there will be a flurry of new members. League is to the growth and maintenance of the Catholic The spiritual advisors also spoke about the importance of faith in Canada and the world. We truly are all in this leaders and mentors. The League struggles to find members together, doing our best “For God and Canada,” witnessing to fill office. It is important for those members who have the faith and trusting that God is leading the way. lived and worked with the League for many years to act as We Have Seen the Lord! Let us share our stories and reach mentors. What good is 100 members on paper if only 15 out in love to one another. As Pope Francis says, “For those attend meetings? How do we get members enthused about who have been transformed in this way, a new way of seeing the League? opens up, faith becomes light for their eyes” (Lumen Fidei). V Perhaps the spiritual advisors need to start at the bottom and work their way up. We can talk about working with those on the top levels, but perhaps spiritual advisors should be SPIRITUAL ADVISOR encouraging members at the grassroots level. We should also encourage social media – we live in a digital world. All of these things may be foreign to many people, but it’s the language of the young, the way they communicate. Senior members can Archbishop Martin Currie be good at this too. We are never too old to learn new things. St . John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador It’s a good way to keep in contact. Priests at all levels need to be educated on the role of the The spiritual advisors spiritual advisor in the council. The number of priests who emphasize the tremendous have been present at the last conventions is going down, and strength that can be found in we wonder why. We should encourage them to come and groups. The League says it’s help them financially if we can. V the largest group of women in the country, but what can that group do? Fr. Bill Burke, priest from the diocese of Antigonish and former director SECRETARY-TREASURER of the National Liturgy Office for the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, talked to attendees about the Sabbath.

The Sabbath is not respected anymore – it’s not a time for mass, relaxation or rest. What can this tremendous group of Judy Lewis over 91,000 women do to re-establish the importance of the Summerside, Sabbath? Prince Edward Island It’s important for spiritual advisors, especially the priests, but women spiritual advisors as well, to take time to study The national executive the teachings of the church. It is important to explore the reviewed the 2012 audited documents to understand the role of women in the church financial statements as and the importance of that role in society. At the spiritual prepared by Scarrow & Donald advisors’ luncheon, we spoke of the importance of national LLP, Chartered Accountants. conventions, and we encourage spiritual advisors to attend These are the organization’s first financial statements prepared diocesan, provincial and national conventions to experience in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not- the strength and potential that exists in the League. for-profit organizations. In preparing the 2012 statement of Honorary Life Member Danielle McNeil-Hessian led us financial position in accordance with Canadian accounting with the theme Women of Peace and Hope and National Past standards for not-for-profit organizations, no adjustments President Velma Harasen led us with the theme Centred on were required to the amounts reported previously.

10 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 We wish to thank Executive Director Kim Scammell, her team at national office, as well as the national EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR administrative committee for their hard work and attention to detail to obtain the best possible financial results for the League. Kim Scammell As stated in the cover letter from Scarrow & Donald Winnipeg, Manitoba to us dated August 13, 2013, “We confirm, to the best of our knowledge and belief, the following representations I am filled with joy and made to you during examination of the financial so pleased to introduce to statements of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada you today two members on for the year ending December 31, 2012, and the results staff at national office who of its operations and its cash flows for the year then are here with me. Amanda ended in accordance with Canadian generally accepted McCormick is the data entry accounting principles.” clerk and the cheery voice My report on the 2012 financial statements will focus you hear in membership, particularly if you work with online on the Statement of Revenues and Expenditures, as this membership. She is excited to meet all of you and to put a reflects the activities which were undertaken during face to the members she has come to know. Erica Johnson is 2012. Revenue totalled $1,398,426 for 2012 compared the executive assistant who ably maintains the website, and to a budget of $1,416,000. The national treasury received helped us launch Facebook and Twitter pages. She is also 2,557 fewer memberships than anticipated in the original training as the recording secretary. budget; sales of pins rebounded from a lull in sales in Some of you “regulars” at convention may wonder where 2011; and the convention registration was expected to Janice Jones might be. She was not able to attend convention be about 1,000, however, 900 attended. this year, and I would ask that you keep her in your hearts Net investment income was $76,971 compared to and in your prayers. I know many of you miss seeing her, and $43,700. The market experienced a small rebound in I know convention has been a great joy for her. value whilst a loss in value had been anticipated. How does national office see the Lord in the midst of Expenditures totalled $1,278,799 compared to a filing correspondence, entering data, tracking instructed budget of $1,375,000, an under-spending of $96,901. voting forms and shipping orders? We see the Lord through Annual convention costs were lower than anticipated the compassion, action and empathy of members. We hear due to less than anticipated meal and accommodation the Lord when members call, write and e-mail. You are the costs for the national executive and the return of seed face of the Lord. We see and hear hope and joy, but also money from a convention committee. The development sometimes anger and frustration. fund monies made available were not fully accessed by What we have learned from the office’s small part of the councils. Circulation of the magazine declined by 2,130 League world is this: when joy is given, joy is received and members and one issue was smaller than anticipated, that same joy spreads to others. We have found the most creating some savings in printing and design costs. The successful councils we encounter create an atmosphere of resolutions and Catch the Fire! committees incurred fewer joy in all they do. Joy, which is cultivated within members’ charges than anticipated, and the allocation for meetings hearts, is unmistakable. It is manifest in how they treat each to government was unused due to a postponement of the other, how we talk about each other, how they support and meetings until spring. buoy each other up in hard times, and how they celebrate in The total difference between revenues and good times. expenditures from operations was $196,598 compared The sharing of joy and sorrow is integral to building trust to a budget of $84,000. The Statement of Revenue and and relationship. Here’s a measure of the prevalence of joy in Expenditure reflects the activities which were undertaken your council: can you share your strengths and weaknesses during 2012 in comparison to what the League had with your League sisters, knowing they will proudly share planned for the year. In summary, revenues were your strengths and privately help you with your weaknesses? approximately one percent lower than budget. However, How do we all bear witness to and for each other? we were able to contain spending so that expenses In my role, I have seen many changes in executive office. were approximately seven percent below budget. In What joy it gives me to see successors hold in high esteem conjunction with better than planned investment the accomplishments and initiatives of their predecessors! income, the League was able to achieve a surplus for the Isn’t that a true testament of respect, loyalty and tradition? calendar year 2012. V I’ve also witnessed predecessors support, mentor and

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 11 encourage their successors – what an act of generosity councils look at what they do in spiritual development? Do and love! Things may not be done the way they would do they tend to do the same things, good in themselves, yes, them, but even so isn’t everyone’s effort worthy of support, but also in a nice comfortable pattern that does not stretch encouragement and love? members? Why not try something different? Look carefully at Joy is not always easy to achieve. It can be elusive if the headings under this standing committee. Are there some not impossible to find when we are feeling discouraged or that your council has tended to overlook? This year, why not frustrated. We may get angry at ourselves or others. We all look into one of these, such as ecumenism. This January, have those feelings sometimes. How anger, resentment or Canadians have written the Week of Prayer for Christian frustration is handled by each of us leaves a lasting impression Unity biblical reflections, prayer services and educational on grassroots members. materials to be used worldwide. The Prairie Centre for I hope when you communicate with national office you Ecumenism in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, was involved. What come away experiencing hope, joy and enthusiasm even when a great opportunity for councils to participate in ecumenical you may disagree, or when you are calling to communicate a activities associated with the week, and what a great negative experience. opportunity to use some of the materials available for council On behalf of myself, Diane H., Janice, Diane K., Valroy, meetings and prayers if councils are unable to participate. Larry, Amanda and Erica, thank you for allowing us to serve I am sure creative members and councils can come up with you with joy as we strive to bear witness to the good news! V audacious ways of evangelizing and serving our brothers and sisters if we put our minds to it. I am pleased to announce the contributions made by SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT members to Catholic Missions In Canada: $36,482.93, an increase of nearly $5,000. Thank you for your generosity and keep up the good work. As we continue to reflect and work under the theme, Mary Nordick We Have Seen the Lord!, and its indispensable effect, “go tell Saskatoon, Saskatchewan everyone,” let us keep in mind a prayer of Dom Hélder Pessoa Câmara, which resonates with the words of Pope Francis. My sisters and brothers: let “What is the point of your presence if our lives do not us joyfully proclaim, We Have alter?...Take away the quietness of a clear conscience. Press Seen the Lord! Let us run to tell us uncomfortably. For only thus that other peace is made, everyone the good news. That your peace.” V is our mission as laity. We have had a wonderful first year of the theme We Have Seen the Lord! We have told our stories and shared our experiences. We have reflected and hopefully grown ORGANIZATION spiritually during this Year of Faith. Where do we go from here, especially in the spiritual development standing committee? Barb Dowding Pope Francis has many ideas as he shared at the recent Port Moody, British World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He said in his Columbia homily on July 28th, “Where does Jesus send us? There are no borders, no limits: He sends us to everyone.” Go out; go What an amazing forward; keep going. Be creative; be audacious; do not be year! afraid. “Evangelizing means bearing personal witness to the Have you seen the love of God, it is overcoming our selfishness, it is serving by Catch the Fire! map? Look bending down to wash the feet of our [brothers and sisters], at all those fires burning as Jesus did.” He also reminded us that Jesus never leaves us across the country! One hundred workshops have already alone, and we are not expected to do it alone. We are church, taken place in 463 parish councils, attracting over 3,500 as the pope reminded us. “Jesus did not say: ‘One of you go,’ participants. The response is overwhelmingly positive as but ‘all of you go’: we are sent together.” members and non-members alike are being surprised and Pope Francis, like St. Francis, often reminds us to witness energized. While the numbers sound significant, this grand joyfully. I think it was St. Theresa of Avila who said, “From… total equals roughly four per cent of the total membership! sour faced saints, Good Lord, deliver us!” Catch the Fire! graduates tell us they are renewed, Taking to heart the pope’s words, might I suggest that invigorated and reminded anew about why they became

12 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 members. They feel valued; hurts are healed and hearts encounters presented, particularly in parishes, and follow are truly set on fire. There are so many wonderful accounts where the Holy Spirit leads while walking as sisters of Jesus, of sacred meetings, special encounters and delightful a new and vigorous church will emerge! descriptions of aha! moments. I am so pleased that the We have already been called and chosen for God’s provincial presidents were able to share a number of them. purpose. Our goal is to focus on the mission at hand, to The response for more Catch the Fire! has been offer all women the opportunity to recognize and nurture overwhelming, so watch for the S’Mores package coming their gifts and talents. That’s what membership is! At the risk soon to a facilitator near you! The League is blessed to have of mixing metaphors, we need to be sowers of the seeds of been gifted with this exciting initiative. We must share the mercy, healing, forgiveness, fun, fulfillment and joy in our wonderful news. If we are really eager, then it should be parishes, and let the Lord take care of the rest. obvious by how we act and what we say. If we are convinced It seems Pope Francis is speaking directly to members. He the League is truly a gift for all women, we must go and tell tells the faithful to open up and be supportive and attentive everyone! Go start a conversation; share a story; relive a to others. And further, he says to set their stakes on great memory, or make a new one. ideals that change the heart and make their talents useful. It is vital to keep fanning the flames. As Pope Francis tells The League’s ideals (Objects) are very clear and its stakes us, we must share our faith encounters and not keep them (calling members to holiness…) are high indeed. locked within ourselves or in small groups. He said the way We are a formidable group of strong, committed Catholic to fan a flame is to share it and pass it on. The same is true women, and we are doing great things “For God and of Catch the Fire! Canada”. As one we will kindle new fires, see the Lord in all On Gathering Day we heard first hand the powerful we meet and let the Spirit take us where we never dreamed impact a shared story can have when honorary life members we would go! It is time to come down from the mountain Irene Lefort, Claire Heron, Agnes Bedard and Danielle and go out with faces radiating the love we have for the McNeil-Hessian told of how they have seen the Lord, each League. We have seen the Lord; go tell everyone! V in her own unique way. How blessed we are that they shared those encounters with us, and we need to do likewise! How will hearts on fire affect your parish council? If CHRISTIAN FAMILY LIFE you go home from Catch the Fire! thinking it was great but never do anything about it, then what? The parish council is the home and heart of the League. If we are to grow in Margaret Ann Jacobs membership and develop strong, Catholic women, it must Elmvale, Ontario take root in our parish councils. After all, the backbone of the League is its members. Last year we gained 4,492 new Imagine a marriage in members. Sadly, 1,256 died last year as well; may they rest which each partner commits in peace. to conjugal love, forming What happened that 7,010 members did not renew? one heart and soul, and Why? It is up to each one of us in our respective parishes to demanding indissolubility look for them and seek them out. They could just be busy or and faithfulness in definitive they may be hurting. Everyone knows that personal contact mutual giving. The relationship continues to be built on a is the most powerful and authentic way to do this. deep respect for one another, on friendship as well as on And while numbers are important, membership is much passion, shared values, hopes and interests, and on the more than that. It is about faithful and faith-filled women living desire to make a life and a family together. There is the strong out that fundamental role in society to which the Holy Father sense that through living out this vocation the spouses are keeps referring. It is about honouring those who have gone responding to God’s call to holiness. before us and taking care of those in our midst. It is about Imagine every child conceived in a mother’s womb has working with our spiritual advisors, helping them to know and been desired by God and called by God to life. The child appreciate what we have to offer and how we can help. feels loved and encouraged to be the person whom he or she Membership is about parish councils with dedicated is meant to be, sharing emotionally intimate time within the women who will both build up the kingdom of God and roll family setting. up their sleeves to get things done. It is made up of those who Imagine providing the seriously ill, terminally ill or pray and those who are happy to do the heavy lifting. Like disabled with the utmost of personal attention – home care, Martha and Mary, who served the Lord in different but palliative care and pain control to alleviate suffering. This care equally important ways, we are essential to the health and saves a sick person from feeling lonely and abandoned, and well being of the church. When we open ourselves to the affirms the life of the person who is dying.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 13 Imagine youths who can testify to how they were changed when they let Jesus into their lives. They experience the COMMUNITY LIFE Eucharist, the rosary, Eucharistic adoration and reconciliation. They recognize their special duty to help Christ’s least ones – the poor, homeless, disabled, sick, oppressed and unborn. Imagine seniors who are respected for their exceptional Fran Lucas lifetime experiences, and whose opinions and views are Edmonton, Alberta sought to formulate wiser, more just choices in the lives of subsequent generations. The Canadian Catholic Imagine faith communities where widowed, separated or Organization for Development divorced women are included, strengthened and empowered and Peace (CCODP) is a large to positions where their unique gifts are enriched and shared component of the community in an affirming and welcoming manner. life standing committee which Imagine a faith community which actively promotes could keep one very busy, while vocations to the priesthood and religious life. allowing for great learning opportunities. Subcommittee Sadly, this is not the reality in which many of us live today. chairperson Diane Lemay monitors CCODP and shares Four in ten marriages end in divorce. More than three million information through In The News on the national website. abortions have occurred in Canada since 1969. Children live This past year I have felt a compelling pull to the CCODP in poverty or dysfunctional homes. Terminally ill patients may portion of the community life standing committee. I believe be offered euthanasia or assisted suicide. Widowed, separated the Lord is opening my eyes to see the needs of those who or divorced women are excluded. Seniors are unappreciated have so little and suffer so much. At the request of the and disrespected. Seminaries are educating fewer priests. Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and CCODP, a Our challenge as Christian family life chairpersons is to special collection to assist victims and refugees of the war in change this reality to ensure the imaginable is willed into Syria gave members an opportunity to help the thousands of existence, for “the path toward the future passes through the Syrians who each day flee their home country. The federal family.” Not only should we be encouraging and promoting government has made an initial commitment to resettle up activities at the parish level that will provide an increased focus to 1,300 Syrian refugees this year. Can your parish council on family life, we need to initiate programs that will germinate help with this resettlement? Perhaps you have not yet had into fruitful relationships with others and the community. involvement with CCODP. Start by purchasing a membership Essential to the success of this endeavour is the absolute and begin the journey, knowing the Holy Spirit will guide you necessity to recognize and celebrate the presence of Jesus in to where you are meant to be. My goal is to become more our lives, and our personal encounter with Him. This begins involved in local Catholic social services to help immigrants by developing a deep sense of the inherent dignity and worth and refugees settle into their new homes and experience a of every human being. By including Jesus in every partnership smooth integration into Canadian society. of our lives, we will change who we are and the minds and Statistics from the United Nations (UN) show up to hearts of those whose lives we touch. Through our activities four million people are trafficked worldwide. Will you be a we are responding to God’s divine plan of salvation. Our messenger of the Lord and voice the need for a change in the challenge isn’t just to promote programs but to personally laws to ensure victims are protected and the true perpetrators experience this change in dynamic. Inspire fellow Christians are criminally charged? When your parish council meets to practice theology of the body. Grace their lives through in the coming months, would you write letters to your engaged encounter or marriage encounter, and offer programs provincial minister of justice voicing this request? Or perhaps to animate and enrich family life. Bring our churches to life invite someone from a local agency that helps women who with an attitude of deep respect, inclusion and dignity for all have been part of that lifestyle to tell their story? Hearts will members. Pray for vocations and seek out ways to affirm and undoubtedly be stirred to action when you hear of the abuse build up the clergy. Support their endeavours for all God’s and manipulation of these individuals. people. In June, subcommittee chairperson Nancy Simms Be the change that you wish to see in the world. Just attended the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada’s imagine the possibilities … just imagine! V Caught in Traffick conference in Winnipeg. Copies of her report are available through national office. After the League’s national delegation to government met with the policy For God and Canada advisors for the minister of public works and government services and the minister for the status of women, it was positive to hear Member of Parliament Stella Ambler

14 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 (Mississauga South) named chairperson of a new committee to investigate the issue of missing and murdered aboriginal EDUCATION AND HEALTH women. Resolution 2011.02 Children of Missing and Murdered Aboriginal Women should tie nicely into her work.

An article from the Edmonton Journal states across Canada, Peggy Roche 4.2 million people, including 967,000 children and their Torbay, Newfoundland and families, live in poverty. The City of Edmonton website Labrador cites that each homeless person costs taxpayers roughly $100,000 a year for such things as police and medical costs, As chairpersons versus $30,000 or less to house and support them. There is of education and health good news. Many provincial governments and a number of we become instruments municipal governments have developed strategies that are of the Lord, reaching out succeeding in reducing and preventing poverty. According to a press release, Archbishop Francis Chullikatt, permanent and touching others, and observer of the Holy See to the UN, noted at a recent encouraging them to become more aware and educated in UN general assembly meeting that worldwide hunger is the areas of spiritual health, mental health and wellness, an ongoing scandal. He went on to say, “hunger is one environment and genetics, Catholic schools, catechesis and of the world’s most solvable problems… per capita food literacy. production has steadily risen and total world food production In order for the national treasury to help members now exceeds what is needed to give every person sufficient continue their education, the Bursary Committee developed food and nutrition.” Members’ role would be to encourage revised criteria for the national bursary fund, expanding the premiers to urge the federal government to reduce and program to include ministry to patients in palliative care, eventually eradicate poverty. parliamentary procedure, literacy tutoring and ministry There is much positive movement in the aboriginal to shut-ins. Also, the maximum bursary award amount community. Statistics Canada reports young aboriginal was increased to $1,000. This year, 22 applications were women are gaining ground, with 14% now having university submitted for consideration. Thirteen were successful degrees. Males and females are returning to their communities enticed by new opportunities of entrepreneurship and new in meeting the criteria. The total amount awarded was models of collaborative development. $8,477.50. The CCODP 1% Program National Voluntary Fund Through Coady International Institute, members and continues to generate valuable dollars. Since it began in councils fund leadership development programs for many 1978, a total of over $1.9 million in donations has been people in developing countries. I am happy to report that collected. For the past two and a half years, the three a cheque in the amount of $33,546.10 will be sent directly projects supported were the National Federation of Domestic following this convention from the national voluntary fund Workers in Bolivia, the Development Exchange Centre in to support Coady. Nigeria and the Afghan Women’s Resource Centre. Since Roughly three years ago, Coady established a new July 1, 2012, donations have totalled $76,125.18. A new scholarship program, Indigenous Women in Community partner in Haiti will soon be announced as the work with the Leadership, which offers scholarship opportunities for National Federation of Domestic Workers in Bolivia has been qualified Canadian First Nations, Métis or Inuit individuals completed. currently working full-time in the field of community As the Year of Faith draws to an end, let us live our faith more richly by seeking out ways to be more hands on in our development. In 2012 a pilot program, Canadian Women’s work “For God and Canada”. V Foundation, welcomed its first class of 25 women leaders. It specifically focuses on building the leadership capacities and economic development of disadvantaged Canadian aboriginal, northern, rural, new Canadian, refugee and low income constituents. I understand from Erika Gunn, fund development officer at Coady, these two programs are run by instructors from indigenous communities. The Canadian Mental Health Association and other mental health organizations have worked tirelessly over the years to address the stigma and discrimination experienced by people with mental health issues.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 15 Some things members can do to raise awareness are Since 1988, We Have Seen the Lord! in the work of 1. Remove the fear. Start talking to kids. 2. Invite people with Canadians Addressing Sexual Exploitation (C.A.S.E.), mental health issues into our lives. 3. Challenge stereotypes and every October, parish councils across Canada used and help dispel the myths of mental illness. 4. Stop prejudice. kits prepared by volunteers for the White Ribbon Against For more information on how to accomplish this, please visit Pornography Campaign. www.cmha.ca. With the folding of C.A.S.E., the communications Recently, a newsletter was received from MaterCare standing committee was left with the task of coming up with International announcing the first baby born at the an alternative campaign. Today, this alternative is launched. newly built maternity hospital in Isiolo, Kenya, on June It is called Pornography Hurts, and we thank members from 18th. The hospital began operating on June 14th and has Hamilton Diocesan Council for the name. The campaign already provided care for many pre and postnatal patients. will have a many-pronged approach. Announced August 6th on MaterCare’s blog, the first cesarean 1. It is recommended that members wear white ribbons section was performed. A surgeon visits to perform fistula and in October each year. other life saving maternity surgeries each week. Just imagine 2. Postcards are available on your tables to complete what this means to our sisters in Kenya. and mail to the federal minister of justice and The Canadian Catholic School Trustees’ Association attorney general of Canada and your local member (CCSTA) 2013 Annual General Meeting and Convention of parliament (MP), with extras for your friends and was held in Winnipeg in June. Life Member Terri Scott family members to complete and mail. attended on the League’s behalf. Terri reports, “The theme 3. In October, The Canadian League will feature an of the conference was Embrace the Spirit. Ted Paszek, CCSTA article on the issue of pornography and a page of president, said the theme ‘unites us in the mission of Catholic facts. Stitched in the centre of the magazine will be education. It is the Holy Spirit working in all of us that helps two more postcards. Members will be asked to fill us protect and promote Catholic education in Canada.’” A out the postcards and send them to the minister copy of Terri’s report may be obtained from national office. of justice and attorney general of Canada and their The national executive recommended three proposed local MPs. You, who have already sent two, could resolutions be submitted to the education and health send yours to the prime minister and any other MP standing committee for education and awareness – Lyme of your choice. Disease: Diagnosis and Public Awareness (New Brunswick), 4. Using the fact sheet and information in the article, Lyme Disease and Co-Infections (Alberta Mackenzie), and members will be asked to write letters and e-mail Reduce the Stigma Attached to Mental Illness (Ontario). MPs. More information on these critical issues will be sent out in 5. Besides sending the two postcards during the month future communiqués and The Canadian League. V of October, members will also be asked to send cards, e-mails and letters during designated months so that for 12 consecutive months, MPs will be receiving COMMUNICATIONS information about the issue of pornography. The designated months for each province/diocese will be listed in the fall issue of the magazine. Cecile Miller We are asking for the support of all members. The N .E . Margaree, Nova Scotia postcards, letters and e-mails will have an effect, and we will be continuing the work which has gone on for years. Why Last August, when I must we mount this campaign against pornography? There became chairperson of are many reasons. More people need to be made aware of the communications, one of my evils of pornography. We need to learn the facts and then go first tasks was to confer with tell everyone why this campaign is necessary. Pornography the chairperson of community is big business today. It not only affects children, but the life to decide which committee perpetrators, families and society as a whole. Pornography should be responsible for hurts and it hurts everyone. As members, we see the Lord in the issue of pornography. After the fall national executive these little children who are going to be feeling physical and meeting, National Chairperson of Community Life Fran emotional pain, psychological distress and overwhelming Lucas and I were joined by Hamilton Diocesan Past President feelings of guilt, shame, worthlessness and embarrassment. Rosanne Sogan, and it was decided that the communications As we continue our campaign, we remember the words of committee would continue to have anti-pornography as part Jesus, “...just as you did it to one of the least of these who of its portfolio. are members of my family, you did it to me” (Mt 25.40).

16 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Let us work together to make more people aware of the Members have certainly acted this past year through effects of pornography and continue the fight to eliminate letter writing campaigns. pornography in all its ugly forms. As C.A.S.E. stated in a press Some changes to the resolutions dialogue were release in 2001, “Members of Parliament need to be asked suggested in 2012, and we have moved forward with hard questions. Canadians must demand clear, proper and those in 2013. If we are going to continue to present protective legislation be implemented.” quality resolutions, we must understand the formation Last fall a survey was conducted to identify readership and use of them as tools. There is always room for patterns and areas of improvement for both the current League improvement. website and Be League. Using the results of the survey, it was decided that a new website should be designed, a website that One of my goals as national chairperson of is more dynamic and easier to navigate. Executive Assistant resolutions was to produce a new archiving policy. Erica Johnson is currently working on this new site using This has been done and was accepted by the national Wordpress. The data migration from the old to the new is executive at the winter meeting. Archiving of obsolete being done now, and when that is complete, the new website resolutions will be done at the annual national will be launched. Watch for an announcement in the future! convention in 2014. In March, the League launched a Facebook page (The The highlight of my term so far was a visit with the Catholic Women’s League of Canada) and a Twitter handle federal government in Ottawa in March. We were able (@CWLNational). The League has over 340 likes on Facebook, to secure visits with seven government departments. We and the number increases almost daily. The Facebook wall has met with the member of parliament (MP) for Kitchener proven to be a useful communication tool for members to share Centre for an entire hour. He was forthright and very event updates, photographs and supportive comments. There are helpful with follow up on two issues we wanted clarified. over 60 followers on Twitter. V We also met with a policy advisor from the office of the minister of international cooperation. A policy advisor

RESOLUTIONS from the department of finance met with us and had called us previous to our visit to inquire about resolution 2012.02, as they were preparing for the new budget. I

spoke directly with him prior to the Ottawa visit. The Shari Guinta minister of justice and attorney general of Canada met Waterloo, Ontario with us for half an hour of intense conversation. We I may be wrong, but it met with two policy advisors from the departments of seems the profile of resolutions public works and government services and status of has been raised by several women. We also met with the MPs for St. Catharines degrees. Standing committee and Kitchener-Conestoga. chairpersons of resolutions The delegation consisting of National President and legislation have worked Betty Anne Brown Davidson, National Chairperson of together across the country to bring issues to their councils, Legislation Anne Gorman and me were tired but very communities and governments. Councils mentioned last gratified by the dialogue with the various offices. Some year that members were asking for workshops, and several important contacts were made. We also met with Debra provincial and diocesan councils reported they had presented Gyapong of Catholic News Service, who discussed our interesting resolutions workshops for their members. Use of visit and submitted articles to The Catholic Register and sample letters was effective, and councils wrote concerning the Prairie Messenger. Resolution 2012.02 Employment Insurance Benefits for The national resolutions committee received 12 Adoptive Mothers. Review of past resolutions was also done. resolutions for consideration this year. A lot of time and This heightened interest may have something to do with Catch effort was spent on these resolutions. The process is the Fire! in-depth but is gratifying when a good quality resolution I wrote a communiqué which underlined the importance is finalized, either to go to a standing committee for of letter writing, and it has been voiced directly from awareness or to present to government. politicians that receipt of letters from their constituents is a very effective tool for getting citizens’ concerns highlighted.

Oral Reports continued on page 20.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 17 Pornography Hurts! Cecile Miller National Chairperson of Communications

an you imagine how much $47 billion is? That be compared to the effects of incest or sexual abuse. However, is the revenue generated by the worldwide pornography victims face different trials as their image is pornography industry. It is larger than all revenues circulated amongst hundreds or thousands of strangers, and the of professional football, baseball and basketball material will continue to exist long after the act has occurred. franchisesC combined! Pornography revenue in the United States (See list of common effects of child pornography on the fact exceeds the combined revenues of ABC, CBS and NBC. Child sheet on opposite page.) pornography alone generates three billion dollars annually The Pornography Hurts campaign, aimed at raising (www.internetsafety101.org). awareness among members, the general public and members What is pornography? The Catechism of the Catholic Church of parliament (MPs), was launched in August at the 93rd annual defines pornography in this way. “Pornography consists in national convention in Regina, Saskatchewan. In this issue removing real or simulated sexual acts from the intimacy of the there are two postcards. Every member is asked to take the partners, in order to display them deliberately to third parties. time to write a short note (using the fact sheet), and address It offends against chastity because it perverts the conjugal and mail the cards to Minister of Justice and Attorney General act, the intimate giving of spouses to each other. It does grave of Canada Peter MacKay, another MP (your own) or Prime injury to the dignity of its participants (actors, vendors, the Minister of Canada Stephen Harper. Postage is free. One of the public), since each one becomes an object of base pleasure and postcards may be given to a friend to send. As well as sending illicit profit for others. It immerses all who are involved in the the postcards, each member is asked to write a letter or e-mail illusion of a fantasy world. It is a grave offense. Civil authorities each of the above, expressing concern about the proliferation of should prevent the production and distribution of pornographic pornography and its harmful effects on children, adults, families materials.” and society. The Criminal Code defines child pornography under section To check out the evolution of pornography law in Canada, 163.1(1) as ”a) a photographic, film, video or other visual visit: www.parl.gc.ca/Content/LOP/ researchpublications/843-e.htm representation, whether or not it was made by electronic or Furthermore, the campaign will extend over the coming year mechanical means; i) that shows a person who is or is depicted and members across Canada, in their designated month, are as being under the age of eighteen years and is engaged in asked to continue sending postcards, letters and e-mails so this or depicted as engaged in explicit sexual activity, or; ii) the issue will always be on the minds of political leaders. dominant characteristic of which is the depiction, for sexual To ensure a steady flow of cards, letters and e-mails reaches purpose, of a sexual organ or the anal region of a person elected members, one month has been designated for each under the age of eighteen years; b) any written material, visual provincial council. Because some provincial councils have fewer representation or audio recording that advocates or counsels members than others, and because Ontario contains the bulk of sexual activity with a person under the age of eighteen years the membership, some provincial councils have been matched that would be an offence under this Act; c) any written material with a diocesan council(s) in Ontario. The following is a list of whose dominant characteristic is the description, for a sexual the provincial council and matched diocesan council(s) as well purpose, of sexual activity with a person under the age of as the designated month for each. eighteen years that would be an offence under this Act; or Alberta Mackenzie (November); B.C. & Yukon (December); d) any audio recording that has as its dominant characteristic Manitoba/St. Catharines and Pembroke Dioceses (January the description, presentation or representation, for sexual 2014); Military Ordinariate and Hamilton Diocese (February); purpose, of sexual activity with a person under the age of New Brunswick/Kingston and Alexandria Dioceses (March); eighteen years that would be an offence under this Act. Newfoundland and Labrador/Thunder Bay, Ottawa and Essentially child pornography is any pornographic image or Timmins Dioceses (April); Nova Scotia and Peterborough representation which involves a minor. Producing, distributing, Diocese (May); Ontario -- London Diocese only (June); possessing and accessing child pornography are offences under Prince Edward Island/Sault Ste. Marie and Hearst Dioceses the Criminal Code. (July); Quebec and Toronto Diocese (August); Saskatchewan Child pornography has severe long and short term negative (September). effects. Although each child reacts differently depending on It is important to communicate the message pornography the frequency, the acts involved and the child’s personality, no is wrong, harmful and destructive. Everyone needs to be made child escapes unscathed. The effects of child pornography can aware how much pornography hurts! V

18 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Facts about Pornography Child Pornography Possession (www.todaysfamilynews.ca) Stastics (www.childsafenation.ca) • Pornographic websites: 4.2 million • 83% of arrested child pornography possessors (12% of total websites) had images of children 6 to 12 years old • Pornographic pages: 372 million • 39% of arrested child pornography possessors • Daily pornographic search engine requests: 68 had images of children 3 to 5 years old million (25% of of total search engine requests) • 19% of arrested child pornography • Daily pornographic e-mails: 2.5 possessors had images of infants and billion (8% of total e-mails) toddlers under three years of age • Average pornographic e-mails/ • 80% of arrested child pornography user: 4.5 per internet user possessors had images showing the sexual penetration of a child, including oral sex • Monthly pornographic downloads (peer-to- peer): 1.5 billion (35% of all downloads) • More than 90% of Canadians are concerned about the distribution of child sexual abuse images • Daily Gnutella child pornography download requests: 116,000 • Child sexual exploitation is ranked as one of the top three concerns for parents • Websites offering illegal child pornography: 100,000 • Commercial child pornography is estimated to be • Sexual solicitations of youths a multi-billion dollar business industry worldwide made in chat rooms: 89% • Tens of thousands of new images or videos • Youths who received sexual solicitation online: 20% are put on the internet every week and • Worldwide visitors to pornographic hundreds of thousands of searches for child web sites: 72 million annually sexual abuse images are performed daily • It is estimated that there are over five million unique child sexual abuse images on the internet

Effect on the Victims Offenders (www.childsafenation.ca) The effects of child pornography on the victims include the • The number of charges for production or following long and short-term effects: distribution of child pornography increased • overwhelming feelings of guilt, by 800% between 1998 and 2003 worthlessness, shame, and embarrassment • Most child sexual abuse producers are that may escalate with age known to the victims: 37% are family • physical and emotional pain and members and 36% are acquaintances psychological distress • Over 30% of those convicted of possessing • interference with and difficulty in child child pornography were living with minor development (both physically and emotionally) children; almost 50% had access to minor children; almost 50% had access to minors • increased likelihood of becoming at home, socially or as part of their jobs victims of future sexual violence • Currently, an estimated 500,000 individuals • greater risk of sexual diseases are actively involved in the trafficking of child • greater risk of unplanned pregnancies at a young age sexual abuse images on the internet • difficulty with relationships

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 19 Oral Reports continued from page 17.

As the League moves forward, we all become better at February 27, 2013, saw the defeat of Bill C-400, a bill the resolutions process. As the League profile raises with advocating for affordable housing, and Motion 408 on government, the quality of resolutions and statements made gender selective abortion was determined in committee through them become even more important. We want to get to be non-votable. On the other hand, Bill C-304, an it right! We research, investigate and dialogue to be sure what act protecting freedom, received Royal Assent June 26, we say is right and true, and respects our Catholic faith. The 2013. Bill C-266 to establish a John Paul II Day has League’s reputation depends on this. completed first reading in the Senate. Have I seen the Lord this past year as national chairperson Mark Twain said, “A person who won’t read has of resolutions? I certainly have in the hearts and voices of no advantage over one who can’t read.” Probably the my committee members; in my sisters sitting around the single most important thing we can do after spiritual national table; in the dedicated, intelligent, articulate women development is read to become informed about how from across the country who submitted resolutions and Canada is progressing. The aforementioned bills and further dialogued on them, and even in the politicians who motions may be a good place to start. graciously met and spoke with us and listened to us. What a Each of us in this room has seen the face of Jesus in gift to have seen the Lord in so many places. V the Eucharist, in the cuddly baby, the joyful and thriving teen, the healthy adult and the robust senior. We have

LEGISLATION also seen Him in the inconsolable and malnourished child, the frightened and dispossessed teenager, the unemployed or under employed adult and in the frail senior. We are called to be their voice. I often feel guilt Anne Gorman about being unworthy because I have been given so Stanley, New Brunswick much relative to others. I then realize no one is actually worthy, so we must give back in a way that brings the Our League forbearers face of God to all. The provincial councils have worked had the vision to include so tirelessly for social justice, and they understand only legislation as an integral part too well how hard a row we have to hoe, and that it of League structure. It is now never ends. There is hope, however, that we will be our responsibility to take given the strength to continue. “Whoever speaks must action by writing members do so as one speaking the very words of God; whoever of parliament (MPs), and reading parliamentary websites, serves must do so with the strength that God supplies, wire services, social media and newspapers. Even though so that God may be glorified in all things through Jesus Motion 312, a motion for parliament to examine when Christ” (1 Pet 4.11). Go home. Write a letter to your MP human life begins, was defeated, we can be encouraged by it commending, castigating or commenting. We cannot do and recommend striking a committee to examine this same everything but we can do something. V issue. We can also be encouraged by the actions of MPs who have voiced their consciences, which may cost them their positions in future. As national chairperson of legislation I had the privilege of visiting parliament and of meeting with lawmakers directly. Mission Statement It behooves us to continue dialogue with lawmakers, creating The Catholic Women’s League of Canada is a national an ongoing relationship which can only assist in creating the organization rooted in gospel values calling its members to Canada and world the League envisions. I sat in question holiness through service to the people of God. period and saw first hand the respect MPs showed toward each other as representatives of all parties gave amusing and touching farewell tributes to one of their own who, incidentally in his rebuttal, gave so much credit to his wife for his success. For God and Canada There is no question that our Lord has tasked us with the free will to influence the prospective outcomes of various bills now before parliament or ones that have been defeated before they had a chance to be seriously considered.

20 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Assisting in interpreting the C&B as well as the National LAWS Manual of Policy and Procedure (P&P) was a challenging learning experience. The most frequently asked questions revolved around holding executive positions, eligibility and filling vacancies. The challenge we face is our diversity – one Velma Harasen size does not fit all! There are many factors that make each Regina, Saskatchewan council unique, and our role is to keep each one vibrant and functioning in the best way possible. I would encourage The Catholic Women’s councils at every level to review their P&Ps on an annual League of Canada is rooted basis. Standing still is not progress! in history and has much While we savour the present and anticipate the future, to be proud of as it nears let us continue to remember and be grateful for our past! V its 100th anniversary! The actions and dedication of past members were evident as the archives committee went through the many INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS records and documents at national office. Honorary Life Member Danielle McNeil-Hessian, Life Member

Shirley Bernier and I spent three days updating the Betty Anne Brown League’s records. With fondness, we appreciated Davidson the service provided by so many amazing women Wellington, Ontario while realizing the importance of maintaining and safeguarding League history at all levels. Shirley has At the recent World Youth completed her term, and I thank her for serving since Day in Rio de Janeiro, Pope the committee was established in 2008. Her knowledge Francis challenged young and commitment has been valuable beyond words! people to create a world of The guidelines and terms of reference for the committee brothers and sisters. I believe were reviewed and revised. All national archive material he bids us likewise with this familial attitude, to reach out will now be forwarded only to Library and Archives particularly to our sisters in other countries. Canada in Ottawa, and no longer to Archives of Manitoba. With this in mind, I wrote to Luba Kowalchyk, past The Constitution & Bylaws (C&B) Amendments president of the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League Committee continued this year, preparing to comply with of Canada, offering our interest and assistance as she Bill C-4 An Act respecting not-for-profit corporations. After represents the Catholic women of Canada for four years meetings, and writing and rewriting revisions, the national on the board of the World Union of Catholic Women’s executive approved circulating the proposed amendments Organizations (WUCWO). to the bylaws in order to comply with the Act. Six additional National President-elect Barb Dowding and I attended proposed amendments were circulated to all councils and the workshops and liturgical celebrations of our American these will be voted on at this convention. Many thanks sisters at the annual meeting of the National Council of to parish councils for completing what some may call a Catholic Women in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Building cumbersome task. All amendments to the C&B are only this bridge of friendship and cooperation enabled us to implemented with the approval of members. invite Maribeth Stewart, WUCWO vice-president for North The national executive approved a change in the America, to write an article for The Canadian League in elections procedure. The completed nomination forms the spring 2013 issue, with the hope of stimulating more shall be accepted as the first ballot if no voting delegate interest in the upcoming North American gathering in Fort is released from her instructed vote due to the election Lauderdale, Florida, in September, and the world gathering of a candidate to another office or the withdrawal of a of WUCWO in Fatima, Portugal, in October 2014. Maribeth candidate. The president shall announce the name of has likewise been with us during this convention. the candidate with the majority (candidates in the case The successful completion of the Velma’s Dream project of a plurality vote) as declared elected. If any voting demonstrates how quickly and enthusiastically members delegate is released from her instructed vote, all voting shared with Christian families in the Holy Land the good delegates shall cast a ballot. It is imperative that voting things God has given members. The Canadian Catholic delegates understand their responsibility during the Organization for Development and Peace projects have given elections process. assistance to our sisters in Afghanistan, Bolivia and Nigeria.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 21 The League’s bursaries to the Coady International Institute Western Canada, the first handwritten and illuminated bible have helped create vibrant community leaders for home in more than 500 years, were available for viewing. villages in the developing world. Catch The Fire! is alive and well in Alberta Mackenzie The highlight of my year was being invited to accompany Provincial Council. Workshops have taken place from the the governor general of Canada as part of the official party Northwest Territories to the southernmost parts of the to Rome on the occasion of the inaugural mass of Pope province. There is still much more work to do, though, and Francis. I had the privilege of representing each of you. The many more members to reach. federal government wants us to know it truly appreciates Members have been inspired to write resolutions, and all we have done and are still doing for the good of God’s the council is pleased that one resolution will be discussed people. The government really wanted to invite all of you to at national convention. Another will be directed to the say thank you, but we wouldn’t all fit on the plane! appropriate standing committee for action. “Lord, let me see again,” begged the blind man (Lk In support of vocations, there is an endowment fund 18.41). Now we can see and understand the direction, at St. Joseph Seminary and Newman Theological College. challenges and passion of our Ukrainian, American, Middle There is also an endowment fund to support the CWL Eastern, Afghan, Bolivian, Nigerian and Haitian sisters in chair for Catholic Studies at St. Mary’s University College. the developing nations. Looking ahead, we look forward to Members are encouraged to continue to support these two embracing our sisters outside the border of Canada. V endowment funds and to take the opportunity to register for courses of interest. Recently, after legalities were addressed, two “angel ALBERTA MACKENZIE cradles” (safe drop-off centres for unwanted newborns) were opened in Edmonton. Vancouver has one angel cradle already; the council would like to see more open across the country. Dorothy Johansen Members in Alberta Mackenzie continue to look for Edmonton, Alberta opportunities to evangelize by completing good works. We are working towards ending homelessness by supporting Housing I am delighted to represent First programs within communities. We also support food the more than 9,700 members banks, missions and outreach to brothers and sisters in need in the province of Alberta and during times of local or widespread disasters. V the Northwest Territories at this national convention. We are blessed to have the theme We Have Seen the Lord! We enjoyed hearing National President B.C. & YUKON Betty Anne Brown Davidson expand on this theme at the provincial convention, and it reaffirmed why we are inspired to do so much as members. Doreen Gowans At the mid-winter meeting, the guest speaker was from Kamloops, British Columbia the Provincial Archives of Alberta. She identified why it is so important to record what the League has done in the We Have Seen The Lord! province, and why it is also important to submit these and we have Let Our Faith records to the provincial archives, so everyone may benefit Shine throughout B.C. and from learning about League work. We are currently involved the Yukon. I had the pleasure in trying to combine the provincial council’s very early of travelling from one end history, located at the Glenbow Museum in Calgary, into the of the province and territory provincial archives as well, so all records will be in one place. to the other, where I witnessed the true sisterhood of the At the provincial convention in June, Eunice Peterson of League. What a great privilege it is to be a member. I am the Catholic Psychotherapy Association of Canada informed pleased to represent 9,252 members. members about this new organization. Participants also In February, a delegation met with the provincial learned about The Saint John’s Bible with a talk on the “The government and shared the 2012 resolutions. The delegation Art of Illumination: How Faith Reveals Itself Through Art, was pleasantly surprised that the government was releasing Education & the Everyday” by Dr. Gerry Turcotte, president a 23 page document entitled BC’s Action Plan to Combat of St. Mary’s University College. Two volumes of the only Human Trafficking 2013 – 2016, as well as an educational full-sized fine art reproduction of The Saint John’s Bible in website to provide information, so members are better able to identify a trafficked victim and call the authorities.

22 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 We are continuing to burn with fire, zeal and joy as we congratulatory letter on behalf of the council to Pope Francis are thankful for all 22 Catch the Fire! presentations. We wait and a reply was received. I quote, “assuring you and all the in anticipation as we have at least eight more workshops members of the British Columbia and Yukon Council of scheduled for the fall. the League and your families of a remembrance in his own I attended four of the six annual diocesan conventions; prayers, the Holy Father cordially imparts his Apostolic the president-elect represented the council at the other Blessing as a pledge of joy and peace in the Lord.” Also, there two. A special time was had at the Kamloops diocesan was a unanimous vote of confidence by voting delegates to convention in Williams Lake, where I had the pleasure of increase per capita fees effective January 1, 2014. driving National President Betty Anne Brown Davidson to and Our convention book cover was designed by a member from convention. We travelled from Kamloops, attended the who used her talents to celebrate the new themes. In the convention and returned to Kamloops via an alternate route centre of the drawing was a cross within a host which reflected to showcase our beautiful province. the centre of our faith and our Lord. The circle of figures with Four parish councils have donated roughly $10,000 hands outstretched raised upward in worship represented the to aid the homeless, those suffering from addictions and strength and unity of the women of the League, sharing joy seniors’ necessary dental needs, which may not be provided and generosity of spirit as they encountered Christ in others. for through any other agency. In addition, a $5,000 grant has Sisterhood – that is what the League is truly about. V been approved from the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada to help continue this valuable work. We Have Seen the Lord! in seniors and the marginalized as we do our part to reach out and help. MANITOBA We invite everyone to “Come and Unlock the Possibilities” at the 2015 annual national convention, to be held in the beautiful city of Vancouver. Keep checking the new Monica Brechka website, www.bcyukoncwl.com, for updates. Winnipeg, Manitoba A special celebration was held with the families of 10 First Nations students who received the sacraments of At the Winnipeg Annual reconciliation, Eucharist and confirmation. The students Diocesan Convention, hosted ranged in age from nine to 23 and live on the Skeetchestn by St. Vital Parish Council, Indian Band, 66 kilometres from the nearest town. We Let $904.00 was donated to Our Faith Shine as these students were taught and encouraged northern missions in by our members. Canada. Guest Speaker Keely The annual provincial convention had 200 joy filled and Ten Fingers spoke about murdered and missing aboriginal happy delegates. We were honoured to have in attendance women in Manitoba. Members were invited to look at an archbishop and three bishops, along with priests, who this tragedy through Christ’s eyes. What if these were our concelebrated the convention masses. Archbishop Michael children or grandchildren? What would we do? Miller (Vancouver) spoke on “The Challenges Facing Pope Fines imposed for late annual reports were used to buy Francis”; motivational speaker Pat Nichol gave her keynote twin dolls. At the fall meeting, there was a baby shower for address, “Living with Joy,” and a workshop entitled “Ten the “twins” who, along with the proceeds, were donated to Steps to Happiness”; and Bishop Richard Gagnon (Victoria) Pregnancy and Family Support Services. A $250.00 donation spoke on We Have Seen the Lord! and Let Our Faith Shine. was made to a charity chosen by the parish council having Three resolutions were adopted, with two forwarded to the greatest number of members present at convention. national council for consideration. The third resolution, The St. Boniface Annual Diocesan Convention was Uninterrupted Services for Disabled Youth to Adult Services, hosted by St. Mary Parish Council. St. Boniface Diocesan will be presented to the provincial government. Spiritual Advisor Fr. Charles Fillion spoke of his journey We said goodbye to former B.C. & Yukon Provincial to become a priest. Author and guest speaker Mariette Spiritual Advisor Fr. Tien Tran. Fr. Tran came from Vietnam. Martineau discussed the spirituality that is in what we do for He has organized a team of volunteer doctors, nurses and our families, churches and communities. lay people to form a medical mission team that will travel to The diocesan president, past president and spiritual Vietnam twice a year performing various surgeries for people advisor meet annually with Archbishop Albert LeGatt in need. Fr. Tran was pleasantly surprised when we presented (St. Boniface) to discuss dates for convention, honour guards our mass collection to him for his medical mission team. at the cathedral and his New Year’s reception. Prior to As this was my first provincial convention as president, Christmas each year, the executive enjoys a pot luck dinner there were two highlights that stood out. I wrote a hosted by His Grace.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 23 The Keewatin-The Pas Annual Diocesan Convention was hosted by Our Lady of The Snows Parish Council in Snow MILITARY ORDINARIATE Lake. At the Eucharistic celebration and banquet, participants met recently appointed Archbishop Murray Chatlain (Keewatin-The Pas). Later, a circle was formed around a fire Donna Penney pit, and participants watched Snow Lake Mayor Clarence Victoria, British Columbia Fisher “light up their world.” S’mores were made with huge pink marshmallows. The senses of smell, taste, hearing, sight This has certainly been and touch were stimulated! The next day, Catch the Fire! a very eventful year for brought these memories back and reinforced them. the military and Military All three archbishops were able to be present at their Ordinariate Provincial respective conventions. Archbishop James Weisgerber Council. The military (Winnipeg) announced his retirement and bid participants welcomed a new minister a fond farewell. of national defence who is a former lawyer, married and Since 1979, The Catholic Foundation of Manitoba has a father of three children. As many as 8,000 army, navy been hosting a banquet and presenting the Caritas Award and air force personnel are preparing for, engaged in, or for charity and compassion toward all people. The League returning from missions locally and abroad. Ships are received the award in 1991. This year it was awarded in performing counter narcotics operations and transporting honour of Blessed Nykyta Budka, the first bishop of the United Nations observers to peace support missions. Nine Catholic Ukrainians in Canada, and in celebration of 100 hundred Canadian soldiers are leaving for Afghanistan as years of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Manitoba. Parish part of Operation ATTENTION, the last Canadian Forces councils agreed to support a silver sponsorship for this dinner. mission in the country, in which they will train Afghan Life Member Liaison Dolores Blanchard hosted a soldiers and police officers. Youth of First Nations, Métis luncheon for life members, and provincial and diocesan and Inuit ancestry were sworn into the Canadian Armed presidents. Sadly, we bid farewell to Life Member Helen Forces in Esquimalt, British Columbia, as candidates of the Bembenek who continues her journey with God. Councils Raven Aboriginal Youth Employment Program, designed reported local services for, while others travelled to, the to build bridges into aboriginal communities and to make canonization of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha. The newest parish youth aware of potential military or civilian careers with the council in Winnipeg, St. Gianna Beretta Molla Parish Council, department of national defence. It is interesting to note they has 75 charter members. One life membership and one were given the traditional option of swearing on a bible or Bellelle Guerin Award were presented. with an eagle feather, a cultural symbol for the First Nations The annual provincial convention was hosted by St. people. This fascinating program is in its tenth year. Boniface at St. John the Evangelist Parish Council. Archbishop Annual provincial conventions are hosted by military base LeGatt presided at the Eucharistic celebration, with five councils all over Canada. To keep costs down and convention priests concelebrating. Manitoba Provincial Past President fees to a minimum, it is a general rule that attendees reside Jacqueline Nogier welcomed the new Winnipeg Diocesan in military quarters, eat in mess halls and attend meetings President Lea Colbeck. Patricia Gyulay of Catholic Missions in chapel annexes. When a base council does agree to In Canada thanked members for their support and spoke host, it may only have the council’s and spiritual advisor’s about on the dire need in many missions. Six resolutions support initially. It can be very daunting, yet exhilarating, were adopted. when the council president goes home from convention God gifted me with pure joy when I witnessed a keepsake and announces her council has been accepted to host a binder, a labour of love, presented to Life Member Margaret convention. Then the real work begins. The chain of events Silverthorne. Congratulations to Our Lady of The Snows and procedures has to be exact and placed into a tight time Parish Council for winning the waiving of national per capita slot, and the waiting game begins for approval. fees for its members. There are four more Catch the Fire! For Queen of Heaven Parish Council (CFB Greenwood) workshops scheduled. With elections and appointments, that hosted the 46th annual provincial convention, there I am happy to announce a full provincial executive. We was an unexpected turn of events; a new procedure will continue to build on outreach to members and all was implemented in October 2012 by the federal Catholic women. V government. To aid you in understanding how changes in government procedures can affect the Military Ordinariate base councils, I will briefly clarify the new Directive on Travel, Hospitality, Conference and Event Expenditures introduced by the treasury board for all federal government

24 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 departments. Extensive reporting is required when seeking of St. Raphael Parish Council in my hometown of Blackville. event approval, including the cost of travel for all participants, In October, I was off to the fall national executive meeting in cost of facilities, where the event will be held, cost of meals Winnipeg, and I found these meetings very informative. In being provided, where the funding is coming from to pay for November, I attended rosaries and masses, funeral receptions the event, and what type of hospitality will be extended. The and meetings. higher the total, the further up the chain of command the I had an important meeting at the Anglican church on event has to go for approval. When creating the application, the issue of euthanasia. The Anglican community is very the originating unit must also write a briefing note for each concerned about euthanasia and abortion. In the latest level of command and provide draft letters for each signing attempt to legislate euthanasia, Quebec introduced Bill 52 on level to pass to the next level. The request must be sent 14 to June 12th by framing euthanasia as a medical, not criminal, 16 weeks in advance. In the case of Queen of Heaven Parish matter. Quebec hopes to bring the debate into provincial Council, the event, which was the convention, had to go jurisdiction. The federal government has previously tried through the Greenwood comptroller, its Wing commander, to address euthanasia. The House of Commons decisively the commander of Air Division, the commander of the Air rejected euthanasia by defeating Bill C-384 on April 21, Force and then the deputy minister. This is all done before 2010, with 59 votes in favour and 226 against, although accommodations, food and meeting rooms can even be almost every Bloc Québécois member supported the bill. booked, which is definitely a test of endurance for a host In December, the faithful prepared for the spiritual birth council. of Christ. Fundraisers were held for the needy and to help Military Ordinariate Provincial Council continues to take unwed mothers. Members baked, made donations to the on the essential role of caregiver to military families. We see food bank and distributed clothing. In January, breakfast the Lord through easing the families’ burdens. Members was provided for the children in schools, and children with provide food and babysitting, run second hand shops on special needs were helped by providing food or clothing to bases, support the military pilgrimage to Lourdes, send their mothers. military dependants to World Youth Day, provide spiritual I attended the winter national executive meeting in guidance or, perhaps, just have that cup of tea or coffee with Toronto in February. In March, I handed the reins over a reassuring friend. My dad always told me, “The family that temporarily to the provincial president-elect and provincial prays together, stays together,” and he is right. The Military treasurer. They managed the annual provincial convention, Ordinariate is a family, part of God’s family to all military and they kept me posted in my absence. In May, I accepted members. With God’s help and direction, we will carry on the invitation to attend a convention in Rexton, New supporting the military families, “for the happiness of every Brunswick. It has been busy and I have been blessed. May country depends upon the character of its people.” V our Blessed Lady be with you. V

NEW BRUNSWICK NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR

Marion Fogan Rita Janes Blackville, New Brunswick St . John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador As my two years as New Brunswick provincial I am honoured to president come to a close, I present this report as look back and think about newly elected president, how much there is to learn representing with great joy about the League. I have been blessed by Our Lady and was and hope Newfoundland and fortunate to work with so many of my League sisters. My first Labrador Provincial Council. duty as provincial president was to attend the 92nd annual In preparing for this report, I read a review of the homily national convention in Edmonton. I wish all my sisters could given by Pope Francis on Pentecost Sunday where he have attended. I learned so much and met so many. challenged the faithful to consider whether they were In September, the fall provincial executive meeting was starched Christians or courageous Christians, ready and willing to live the gospel today. It is quite obvious the held with full attendance and much business to cover. members of our province are anything but starched, and they Following that, a regional meeting was held to provide show themselves as courageous women by facing the diverse information on Catch the Fire! I attended the 80th anniversary issues in their church, and local and global communities.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 25 This was best witnessed at the fall 2012 meeting when members decided on focus topics for the next NOVA SCOTIA two years. They chose: evangelization and the Year of Faith, with intentions of evaluating at the end of 2013 and then deciding how to proceed for the 2014 year; Debbie Samson the role of women in the church, fifty years after Vatican Louisdale, Nova Scotia II; and ecology, to promote the interconnectedness and interrelatedness of all creation, and to live in a spirituality It has been a productive flowing out of the sacredness of all creation. Two issues and fruitful first year for me within this focus topic members decided to take action on and the very active Nova Scotia are hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and the local and global Provincial Executive, which water crisis. In this regard, we are pleased Pope Francis has started in August 2012 with a spoken several times since his inauguration about the need retreat to set priorities for the to protect all creation and safeguard the earth. year and to look at a schedule At the annual provincial convention, members had an for Catch the Fire! Starting with two facilitator workshops in opportunity to share happenings in their councils with September and October, we set forth to engulf the province regard to these focus topics, the challenges they are facing in flames, strategically locating workshops to reach the largest and where they may need support from the provincial audience possible. The response was tremendous with 1,400 council. These topics were chosen by members because of the 4,300 members (and many non-members) attending. It of their importance, and members are optimistic they is amazing how the Lord works and this was evident in the will encourage many younger women in their parishes to young mother who attended, brimming with ideas of how to consider joining the League. make the League attractive to her peers and to the inactive A challenge not unknown to most provincial councils members who were in awe of the League. It was just as is also facing Newfoundland and Labrador – the issue of amazing how He worked in the faithful members to help them membership. Hence, all members have been challenged listen with open minds and hearts. to consider themselves responsible for membership The executive spent time at its March meeting further recruitment and retention. The first step in doing this is to developing the theme We Have Seen the Lord! and decided ask ourselves these following questions and discuss them there were so many ways to see the Lord in our province. Being at a council meeting: inspired by Nova Scotia Provincial Spiritual Advisor Fr. Doug • What makes the League different from other Murphy’s recitation of Psalm 150, we decided to extend the women’s organizations in the parish or community? theme to We Have Seen the Lord so Let Everything that Breathes • What does it mean to be a League member today? Praise the Lord. We also had the 13-year-old son of one of our • What is my reply if a parishioner asks, “Why should members, Dante Samson, depict the theme in a pencil sketch. I join the League”? The Lord certainly had a hand in it! • What two things can I do to help my council better The Second Annual Halifax-Yarmouth Diocesan Convention reflect on the Objects of the League? was held in Yarmouth, and the guest speaker was Sr. Nuala Catch the Fire! has reached over 50% of parish councils, Kenny, emeritus professor of bioethics at Dalhousie University and plans are in place to reach out to the remainder of and ethics and health policy advisor to the Catholic Health councils in early fall. The response has been positive Alliance of Canada. She requested that attendees see the Lord and enthusiastic, and it is our dream they will continue in the church, take all the good they know and appreciate to attract and motivate women of the parish to join the about it, and find ways to heal it, as she knows only League League and assume leadership positions. members can. She handed out manuals for each area of the We continue as courageous women, full of joy, hope, diocese which included methods on how to proceed. The wisdom and generosity, committed to God and Canada. provincial executive will spend some time reflecting on the There are many dedicated members in the province. direction the Lord is asking it to take with this process. Provincial council aims to support them and promote a I also attended the 91st Annual Antigonish Diocesan positive attitude about the future. We look forward to Convention in St. Andrews. The guest speaker was Sr. Dorothy Catch the Fire!. It is our hope that our membership will, Moore, the first Native sister in Nova Scotia. She encouraged “Learn to build a fire and fan our gifts into flames” members to see the Lord even in the trials they may encounter, (2 Tm. 1: 6-7) of renewal and rededication. V sharing many stories from her own life. The annual provincial convention was held in June and attendees were blessed to have National President-elect

26 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Barb Dowding deliver a beautiful slide presentation with seminarians with the Bishop Bernard F. Pappin Memorial many thoughtful reflections on how to see the Lord and on Bursary Fund, which was used to assist ten seminarians this different ways to praise Him. She invited attendees to share year. This bursary is funded solely through the donations of the passenger seat of their cars with the Lord when travelling members. alone and to see what conversation develops. Members have put their faith in action by going into Phil Davidson, director of the St. Francis Xavier University schools with programs such as The Rosary Apostolate, Extension Department, gave some insight into a project which teaches children how to pray and to make rosaries, the council plans to support which involves our aboriginal so they understand the true deep meaning of this beautiful sisters. As a result, a motion was brought to the convention gift from Our Blessed Mother. We Have Seen the Lord! has floor to extend the fundraising project in light of the new given members an opportunity to look at their personal theme and its challenge to perform corporal acts of mercy. relationship with Jesus and to be the hands and feet of Jesus The theme has given many great opportunities for in a world desperately needing His help. members to see the Lord and praise Him. Nova Scotia We grew on our journey as we embraced technology Provincial Council looks forward to the next year of deeper with online memberships. The ON-Line Newsletter grew and closer encounters as members go forward with hearts from 44 subscriptions in 2012 to 243. Each monthly online wide open! V posting shows the good works of members at the grassroots level and features one diocese and one standing committee. The Trillium News and Views newsletter is produced twice ONTARIO a year in hard copy. The provincial executive introduced a Facebook page to reach younger members and new members, and keep in touch with existing members. It Betty Colaneri revised the provincial manual of policy and procedure and Niagara on the Lake, Ontario guide to hosting the diocesan/provincial convention, a true testament of pride and dedication. We are on a journey. The An organization standing committee workshop was held road may not be Emmaus, but in 2012 that brought a time of learning and fellowship, and it is on our way home to the the development of the catch phrase “Good Things ‘Glow’ in kingdom of God. All around Ontario”! Did our hearts not burn within us while He talked us sisters in the League are with us on the road and while He opened the scriptures talking about things that to us? Burn they did as we participated in Catch the Fire! are happening in the world. Flames have ignited on the national map, and members will League sisters work together and share the same mission, be fanning the flames in fall 2013. A video presentation was values, vision and goals. given at the provincial convention showing the work that has Our eyes are restrained at first, so we don’t know Him. been done so far and members becoming sparks of innovative He wants us to know what He is saying. He wants us to see ideas. Two parish councils from the Diocese of London were His people, especially the marginalized, elderly, poor, hungry, winners of the Catch the Fire! participation contest. bullied and defenceless. He wants us to listen and learn from The provincial council welcomed four new life members those we encounter on the journey, so we can hear their in 2013. I was privileged to witness a random act of kindness needs and be the voice of those who have none. at an annual diocesan convention when members heard As we journey, we are to ask questions, gather information of the plight of a speaker who was building schools in a and get to know His people better. In doing so they will feel developing country. Attendees spontaneously took up a valued because they have been heard. In our present society, collection to help with the costs. At the annual provincial it is easy to get caught up in the fast pace and walk too convention, the same was done to help in Alberta with the quickly. flood relief fund. Across Ontario, members paused along the journey for You can never get enough HUGS – Holding Unending days of development to learn practical skills, grow in faith, Grace and Spirit. Research shows that hugging is extremely foster League friendships, and share stories, ideas and ways effective at healing sickness, loneliness, anger and stress. to promote the League. In doing so, members acquired new Hugs lift one’s serotonin levels, creating happiness. Virginia confidence to take on executive positions and leadership Satir, family therapist, stated, “We need four hugs a day for roles. survival, eight hugs a day for maintenance, and twelve hugs a Members have been attentive in this Year of Faith with day for growth.” Hugs teach us to let go and be present in the spiritual retreats, bible studies and taking a closer look at the moment, and encourage empathy and understanding. A hug Catechism of the Catholic Church. They continued to support can create a connection that one cannot express in words.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 27 In Ontario Provincial Council, we open our arms to The provincial executive is pleased again this year to the right, stretching across in prayer with our sisters in the offer a grant for parish councils that wish to join other parish provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and councils in their area to pursue a project of interest or of Manitoba. Stretching to the left, we pray with our sisters in concern to them. Four grants were approved that will involve Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, a total of 13 presenting councils. These projects will take place Prince Edward Island and Quebec. We give a big hug as we in the fall and range in content from a retreat-type gathering embrace our sisters across Canada with joy. for all women, to a wellness session, to a session on women’s Our eyes have been opened, and we know Him in the issues, and to a presentation on youth addictions. Councils faces of His people. Together with one voice we glorify Our are working together for the common good, and the executive Lord Jesus Christ and with excitement we proclaim, We Have is very pleased to support these endeavours. Seen the Lord! V This past year, two executive members were lost. The provincial chairperson of community life relocated to another province, while the provincial chairperson of Christian family PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND life contracted a rare form of cancer that took her life in June. She taught all who knew of her condition about courage, faith and making the best of every day, as she lived the best she Barbara MacFarlane could during this difficult journey. It was her husband who Johnstons River, Prince designed the provincial logo, and for that we are very grateful. Edward Island Looking ahead, there are two fall conferences scheduled. One executive member journeyed to the Holy Land with the As I begin my second Catholic Near East Welfare Association in June, and we are year as Prince Edward Island looking forward to her presentation at the conferences. Also, provincial president, I am the executive hopes to increase readership of the Facebook pleased to report on behalf of page by encouraging every parish council to have at least the almost 2,300 members in one member who would check the page often. Not to get so the province. Of course, we caught up with technology that we lose the sound of our own have been very involved with Catch the Fire! To date, four voice, we hope to continue an initiative which began last year workshops have been presented, with one more to present where we make an effort to call all parish council presidents in November. Participants in these workshops were very and make that personal contact. enthusiastic and indeed have caught the fire. Last winter, an Prince Edward Island Provincial Council’s challenges are official provincial Facebook page was established in which we similar to what many councils face across the country, an joyfully shared our activities with parish councils and those aging membership which results in fewer members doing of you from across the country who have chosen to be our the work. However, the work does get done, sometimes in “friend”. new and creative ways. I look forward to the rest of my year The provincial focus on the theme We Have Seen the Lord! as provincial president as we pursue new ways to fulfill our is the corporal act of mercy of visiting those “imprisoned”. provincial focus on the imprisoned and proclaim to all that However, we have taken “prison” in its broadest sense to We Have Seen the Lord! V mean not only those who are physically incarcerated, but those imprisoned by poverty, disabilities, poor physical or mental health, addictions or even hardened attitudes. It was the physically incarcerated that were highlighted at the annual provincial convention when guest speaker Sr. Audrey Brocklehurst told of her work with inmates at the Provincial Correctional Centre. In May, it was a great pleasure to have National President Betty Anne Brown Davidson at convention and share her workshop on We Have Seen the Lord! Although her time with us was short due to travel commitments, I can assure you her presentation was appreciated by all those in attendance. Also at this convention, two resolutions were adopted. Three provincial executive members met in June to discuss these resolutions with the premier and the minister of health and wellness. The delegation was well received and had a lengthy discussion, particularly on the resolution that dealt with addictions services.

28 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 to the League has deepened my faith, and I want to help QUEBEC maintain membership in Quebec. I admit having moments of hesitation, only to see the Lord. I enjoy working with others and the next two years will be a great learning experience. V

Suzanne Wiseman

Lachine, Quebec SASKATCHEWAN Quebec Provincial Council is changing. There are now two diocesan councils and eight Marge Szabo stand-alone parish councils. Regina, Saskatchewan The total membership decreased slightly due to the Pope Francis’ first decline of English practicing Catholics and thus increasing encyclical, Lumen Fidei, the challenge of attracting new members. Some months ago, has been described as “a and to the council’s great surprise, a few ladies encouraged by celebration of Christian faith their husbands (themselves Knights of Columbus) decided to as the guiding light of a inquire about having a council in their parish. They responded ‘successful and fruitful life,’ to an invitation to attend Catch the Fire! They really enjoyed inspiring social action as well as devotion to God, and it and are now involved in the process of applying for a illuminating ‘every aspect of human existence’.” I think this charter. How exciting is this! Is this not the Lord helping the describes the League and its mission statement. Through League? the standing committees, members have served and helped In May, members gathered on the Plains of Abraham with illuminate our human existence. the Physicians Alliance for Total Refusal of Euthanasia. From The embers are glowing throughout the province. Catch there, we marched to the parliament buildings under the the Fire! is catching on. Although national funding has been banner, “Euthansie, Non Merci!” I saw the Lord in young fully used, more workshops will be held in the fall. We are parents with their children, various youth groups, members happy to announce that St. Paul Parish Council in Vibank of different religious communities, priests and bishops, and was one of the parish councils to have its 2014 national per individuals from all walks of life. It will be important for capita fees waived. A first year member from Regina Diocesan members to remain vigilant as Véronique Hivon, minister Council was so impressed and enthused about Catch the for social services and youth protection, hopes her bill to Fire! that she personally made a commitment to recruit provide “medical aid-in-dying” will be adopted by the national 30 members. In four to five weeks, 45 new members were assembly before Christmas. A resolution against physician- recruited with the help of a few others. The torch is being assisted suicide was adopted at the annual provincial passed on. We are happy to share this enthusiasm. convention. A French translation of this resolution was sent Much emphasis has been placed on adequate and to the premier, leaders of the opposition and various ministers. affordable housing. This year, Habitat for Humanity Canada Most of you have heard about the tragic explosion and fire will fund 40 new homes to be built across the province. in Lac-Mégantic. One life member has challenged all parish Previously, between one and eight new homes were built in a councils to send a donation through the Red Cross in aid to year. In Saskatoon, a new 34-unit rental housing project will the community. Many have already acted on this challenge. assist families in need. Many parish councils are involved by The Lord is indeed present! contributing money and labour, and sponsoring lunches for This fall, there will be two Catch the Fire! sessions – we the workers. aim to visit every region of the province. It has been great fun The three diocesan councils have held spring conventions, presenting these workshops. Several members have expressed which were followed by the annual provincial convention in their enthusiasm for the League. I trust that the Lord will Saskatoon in June. A new provincial executive was installed at encourage members to renew their commitment. Recently, He Holy Family Cathedral. National Spiritual Advisor Archbishop sent me two members to fill vacant positions on my newly- Martin Currie (St. John’s) was the theme speaker on the Year elected executive, and somehow I trust He will take care of the of Faith. other two still needed. The Bellelle Guerin Award was given to two members I am here because I have seen the Lord. Why did I say yes who have been a guiding light in the League. They are to becoming provincial president? How will I get through the Theresa Istace of St. Ann Parish Council (Kennedy) and next two years? I have been blessed with ongoing support Armella Rollheiser of St. Theresa Parish Council (Rosetown). from my League sisters and my spiritual advisers. Belonging The $1,000 annual Social Justice Award was shared by

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 29 three recipients this year, Alanna Carlson, Angela Fornwald members as possible by writing welcome postcards, helping and Taylor Roy. The national bursary fund provided seven with décor items, contributing to the health break fund so members with funding. complimentary coffee could be offered, and contributing to The highlight for the province, especially in the all the other services needed to host a convention. Archdiocese of Regina, was hosting the 93rd annual national I marvel at the amount of good works and service you convention. As co-chairperson of the planning committee, have provided to others in the name of Jesus. Each one of it has kept me very occupied with the many tasks involved. you has been summoned to walk with Christ and illuminate A committee of exceptionally gifted members have shown every aspect of humanity. We Have Seen the Lord! through the us how to use computers and technology to our advantage. faces of League members. The provincial workshop in the fall The committee tried to involve as many councils and will continue to develop the theme, We Have Seen the Lord! V

Happy Birthday! Congratulations! Congratulations Congratulations to Parish Councils to the following centenarians! Celebrating Anniversaries

Yvonne Briere, 104 years old on November 20, 2013 80 Years St . Radegonde Parish Council Cathedral of Mary Immaculate Parish Council Lafleche, Saskatchewan Nelson, British Columbia

Beatrice Tompkins, 103 years old on April 2, 2013 Milltown Parish Council St . Michael Parish Council St . Stephen, New Bruswick Margaree, Nova Scotia St . Gertrude Parish Council Monica Dietrich, 102 years old January 13, 2013 Woodstock, New Brunswick St . Mary Immaculate Parish Council Elora, Ontario St . John’s and Missions Parish Council Kirkfield, Ontario Margaret Glyn-Williams, 101 years old, March 26, 2013 St . Mary Parish Council St . John Fisher Parish Council Chilliwack, British Columbia Brampton, Ontario 75 Years Rene Adams, 100 years old, July 20, 2013 Immaculate Conception Parish Council St . Martin of Tours Parish Council, Bryson, Quebec London, Ontario Our Lady of Sorrows Parish Council Clara Kohinski, 100 years old on May 31, 2013 Petawawa, Ontario St . George Parish Council 50 Years Crystal Beach, Ontario St . Jean Regis Parish Council Wauchope, Saskatchewan Mary Cumming, 100 years old June 12, 2013 St . Elizabeth Parish Council Evansburg, Alberta

Sadie Graham, 100 years old November 6, 2012 St . Peter Parish Council Dartmouth, Nova Scotia For God and Canada Anna McGlade, 100 years old August 13, 2012 St . John the Evangelist Parish Council Gananoque, Ontario

30 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Congratulations to 2013 Bursary Recipients!

n 1988, the League received two generous donations with Bursary applications are available on request from national no stipulation as to their use. In response to the call for office or can be downloaded from www.cwl.ca and must be sent lay formation in the Holy Father’s apostolic exhortation to national office with a postmark of no later than May 31st. Christifideles Laici, and in light of the expressed desire of Michelle Carty, London, Ontario Ithe League to foster members’ service “For God and Canada”, Clare Doyle, D’Escousse, Nova Scotia the national executive agreed by motion that these donations be Catherine Giroux, Esterhazy, Saskatchewan used to establish the National Bursary Fund. Subsequently, in June Gorgchuck, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 1990, the national bursary was established as an endowment Belinda Halbach, Lloydminster, Alberta fund with the principal amount invested and the interest earned Theresa Hilbig, Regina, Saskatchewan annually to be distributed as bursary awards. The fund is used to Joy Hinch, Lantz, Nova Scotia provide financial assistance to members meeting the established Linda Howell, Regina, Saskatchewan criteria, and who wish to pursue studies in adult faith formation Monica McNamara, Halifax, Nova Scotia and/or youth ministry, palliative care, parliamentary procedure, Helen Rennie, Calgary, Alberta literacy tutoring and minstry to shut-ins. Joan Schwarz, Regina, Saskatchewan The League is grateful for the many donations received Marilyn Sparrowhawk, Esterhazy, Saskatchewan specifically for this fund. Tashia Toupin, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

Annual Disbursement of National Voluntary Funds he national voluntary funds constitute monies forwarded by councils to national office for disbursement annually to the appropriate agencies. These funds are collected from July 1st to June 30th each year with the amounts T announced at the annual national convention. The 2012-2013 collection amounts are as follows: Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace $76,125.18 Catholic Missions In Canada $36,482.93 Coady International Institute $33,546.10 MaterCare International $31,413.67

National council in 93rd annual convention assembled The WUCWO Endowment Fund, separately incorporated established a temporary national voluntary fund for the and domiciled in Canada, may receive council contributions. Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA). The fund Any contributions to the WUCWO Endowment Fund will be open to receive donations immediately and will close are held in perpetuity and used to subsidize the travel of December 31, 2016. For more information please visit www. WUCWO board members from developing countries, cnewa.org. women who would otherwise be unable to afford The temporary national voluntary fund for MaterCare representation at the international level. Fund donations may International will close December 31, 2013, as per Motion be made out to the WUCWO Endowment Fund and sent G2010.01 in 90th annual national convention assembled. to the attention of the WUCWO Treasurer at CWL national Contributions made after December 31, 2013, may be office. Individual donations will receive charitable receipts. > made directly to MaterCare International, 8 Riverview Ave., St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, A1C 2S5.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 31 League Delegation Welcomed to Parliament Hill Shari Guinta National Chairperson of Resolutions

ational President Betty Anne Brown Davidson, effects which create a physical inability to work.” He went National Chairperson of Legislation Anne Gorman on to say the factors outlined in the resolution relate to and I arrived in Ottawa on Saturday, March parental leave rather than maternity benefits. He believes th 25 . After quickly checking into the hotel, the “the real issue in relation to these concerns is whether Ndelegation went to mass for Palm Sunday at St. Patrick’s Basilica. the existing 35 week length of parental leave is adequate, That evening we discussed what we wanted to accomplish and or whether workers and employers should contribute a made a game plan. premium increase to provide longer parental leave benefits Sunday, March 27th was spent huddled in the hotel room to all parents.” preparing an outline of our conversations and doing some The delegation also discussed Resolution 2012.01 and background research for the various visits we were to make. the MP, being a lawyer, expressed his opinion that there is Our meetings had three parts after general introductions: a problem with “criminalizing the use of prostitutes and a) Presentation and discussion of resolutions not the prostitute.” b) Update on past resolutions/topics The office of the minister of international cooperation c) Asking what the League could do. and the Canadian International Development Agency d) The 2012 resolutions, Resolution 2012.01 (CIDA) was the next appointment. Regarding the letter to Criminalization of the Purchasing of Sexual Services and CIDA signed by National Past President Velma Harasen Resolution 2012.02 Employment Insurance Benefits for (August 15, 2012) which expressed concern about Canada Adoptive Mothers, were mentioned and discussed at all meeting its funding commitments to non-governmental meetings. organizations serving in developing countries, we were The member of parliament (MP) for Kitchener Centre assured by a policy advisor there had been no cuts to was our first appointment. We were graciously greeted, funding in the budget for their office. CIDA is committed and had a full hour of intense and candid conversation. We to the alleviation of poverty and to being aligned with congratulated the MP on Motion 312, a motion to study the foreign affairs. The policy advisor advised us that CIDA definition of human life, and he said he was pleased to have is still on track with the United Nations Millennium received support from across Canada. He expressed concern Development Goals, but she admitted they may not reach that Motion 408, which condemned sex-selective abortions, the 2015 deadline. Three areas of focus for CIDA are food had been declared “not votable.” This should be a concern security, sustainable growth, and children and youth. to Canadians. Resolution 2010.01 is considered a non-issue as chrysotile Regarding Resolution 2011.01 Prohibition of Practices re asbestos is now part of the Rotterdam Convention. Human Reproductive Material, the MP offered to follow up The delegation asked what it could do for CIDA and with the Library of Parliament on the status of the Supreme was told input from members would be helpful. A priority Court ruling re: Assisted Human Reproduction Act and list from the League would be welcomed as well. Concern Reference re: Assisted Human Reproduction Act (2010). He regarding Resolution 2009.02 Protection and Support also offered to give further information as it becomes available Services for Foreign Victims of Human Trafficking was regarding Resolution 2010.01 Chrysotile Asbestos. Canada mentioned and the policy advisor told us the department has withdrawn support for use and export of asbestos. is also concerned about this issue. I have since heard from the MP regarding Resolution The delegation met with policy advisors from the 2012.02. He said, “Maternity benefits are presently limited to departments of public works and government services and biological mothers on the basis that they suffer physiological status of women. They were very receptive.

32 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 The delegation spoke about Resolution 2009.01 Exit Exemption on Funeral Services. The policy advisor said Strategies for Prostituted Persons in its meeting with the he would follow up. With regards to Resolution 2012.02, minister of justice and attorney general of Canada. He we were told a new program would need to be adopted to indicated his belief that “one-stop centres” work best, such criminalize the purchasing of sexual services. With regards as child advocacy centers which include medical personnel, to Resolution 2012.01, the delegation was told provincial police and crown prosecutors under the same roof. The programs and transfer payments cover this along with skills minister said more funding had been given to the Victims training that is targeted at those not eligible for employment Fund, which aims to improve the experience of victims of insurance. crime in the criminal justice system. The delegation’s final meeting was with the MP of The delegation met with the MP for St. Catharines Kitchener-Conestoga. Regarding Resolution 2004.06 National in place of the minister of citizenship, immigration and Strategy for Suicide Prevention, the MP was congratulated multiculturalism. Resolution 2009.02 Protection and for his work with suicide prevention and awareness. The Support Services for Foreign Victims in Human Trafficking, MP was very animated, helpful and genuinely pleased to the department’s work to prevent human trafficking and its decision not to renew the permits of foreign strippers was see and converse with us. He mentioned the government is discussed. Also discussed was Bill C-31 Protecting Canada’s working with Health Canada to coordinate and share statistics Immigration System Act, which amends the Immigration and regarding suicide. We discussed both Resolution 2012.01 and Refugee Protection Act (S.C. 2001, c. 27). The amendments Resolution 2012.02, and the MP offered support for both of include an expanded definition of human smuggling and them. minimum sentences for those convicted of human smuggling The delegation came away with a feeling of success. Every under the Act, increased penalties for those caught trafficking, office was welcoming, forthcoming and eager to help us. We and extensive changes to the refugee and immigration system. felt encouraged in that our ideas, concerns and questions were Next, the delegation met with a policy advisor from the met with receptive dialogue and reciprocal input. This was a department of finance to discuss Resolution 2006.05 GST worthwhile building trip and I look forward to our next one! V

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 33 93rd Annual National convention Resolutions

2013.01 Building Relationships and Partnerships with Canada’s Indigenous Peoples

Whereas, In January 2013, the president of the Resolved, That national council of The Catholic Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops Women’s League of Canada, in 93rd annual stated in a letter to the federal government national convention assembled, encourage all and the Assembly of First Nations that this members to reach out to indigenous peoples was a special moment for Canada and the in their communities. church in renewing and deepening the relationship and partnership with indigenous Action Plan peoples – First Nations, Inuit and Métis; therefore, be it 1. Invite a speaker from an indigenous community to council meetings. Resolved, That national council of The Catholic st Women’s League of Canada, in 93rd annual 2. Celebrate National Aboriginal Day on June 21 . national convention assembled, urge the 3. Celebrate the Feast Day of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha current national executive to: April 17th. • Build relationships with indigenous women leaders 4. Invite indigenous peoples in your area to partner in • Identify ideas and programs for a prayer service followed by a social where everyone members through the national standing shares their culture. committees on building or deepening relationships and partnerships with the indigenous peoples of Canada; and be it further

Letters to the Editor

After years of reading about the issue of declining membership in The Canadian League, I have often wondered why we have not promoted the availability of our associate membership as listed in the Constitution and Bylaws (C&B) 2006, Article VII, section 1(d). This type of membership would add strength to the League not only in numbers, but in the diversification and ecumenism that through our faith we are asked to practice. All women have gifts, talents and beliefs that Many Blessings, would allow them to be of benefit and service to society through Nicole Gougeon the different aspects of the League. This may be an avenue for Past President, Holy Cross Parish Council councils to be looked at more seriously in the future. Winnipeg, Manitoba

34 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 2013.02 Employment Insurance Benefits for Cancer Patients and their Caregivers

Whereas, Persons suffering from cancer, who meet the Resolved, That national council of The Catholic specific criteria for Employment Insurance Women’s League of Canada, in 93rd annual Sickness Benefits, will receive up to a national convention assembled, urge the maximum of 15 weeks of benefits and their federal government to: caregivers, who meet the specific criteria for Employment Insurance Compassionate Care 1. Provide Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits, will receive up to a maximum of six Benefits up to 52 weeks for cancer weeks of benefits; and patients; and Increase Employment Insurance Whereas, Canadian Breast Cancer Network studies Compassionate Care Benefits to 26 show that two-thirds of respondents were weeks, accessible during a 52-week away from work for 16 weeks or more during period, for caregivers of cancer patients. treatment; and Action Plan Whereas, There are significant expenses associated with 1. Write letters to the prime minister, the minister of cancer such as lost wages, transportation, human resources and skill development, the minister accommodation, child care and drug costs; of health and the minister of finance with copies to therefore, be it your local member of parliament urging the federal government to provide additional benefits for cancer patients and their caregivers.

2. Educate members of the ongoing needs of cancer patients and their caregivers

3. Monitor the government’s response to the request contained in the resolution.

National council Welcome regretfully advises New Councils! The passing of life members Blessed John Paul II Parish Council Hope River, Prince Edward Island Margaret Bouclin, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Joan Covey, Halifax, Nova Scotia Sheila Howard, London, Ontario Connie Lavallee, Brampton, Ontario Visit the League Website Rose Marra, Monrose, British Columbia Mary McLeod, Summerland, British Columbia www.cwl.ca Joan Monette, Nepean, Ontario Margaret Reid Miramichi, New Brunswich We’re now on Facebook Viola Specht, Winnipeg, Manitoba Find us on Twitter @CWLNational

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 35 Preparing Future CWL Members Margaret Ann Jacobs National Chairperson of Christian Family Life

everal questions have been raised recently about 2. In order to meet the League’s ethical, moral and the Catholic Girls’ League (CGL) which need to be spiritual responsibilities to promote wholeness, clarified. accountability, trust, care and safety of the work and Upon request, national office will send out an service of members, each parish council should take Sadministration manual to help in setting up a CGL and will steps to ensure that an appropriate screening process put interested members in contact with a CGL leader to be undertaken for chairpersons of the Christian family assist with starting up and establishing an informal network life standing committee, where there is a CGL council between the groups. The manual includes guidelines for present. sponsoring CWL councils, policy, objects, the CGL motto 3. Because young people are among the most vulnerable, (“Faith, Friendship, Fun and Formation”), organizing special care should be taken to exercise ethical vigilance. guidelines, membership/qualifications/application, Councils should avail themselves of the screening counselors, officers/duties, suggested activities for committee procedures offered by the parish, diocese or local police leaders, election information, a meeting agenda, a report department, thus ensuring the integrity, safety and form, cautionary notes and ethical guidelines. reputation of the volunteer members and those who are From the administration manual, Mary’s leaders prepare served. and consult with their committee in one relevant area: • (Faith) spiritual activities e.g., reciting the living 4. The established trademarks of The Catholic Women’s rosary; performing religious plays and skits; days of League of Canada, i.e., crest and stylized Madonna, recollection or retreats cannot be used in CGL material. • (Friendship) activities involving service and social 5. Ensure all necessary processes are in place before action e.g., activities that show how members are establishing a CGL council. a friend to all; promoting being friends with all of God’s creation; supporting service organizations and The national executive deliberated carefully over the charities organizational status of the CGL for about three years. Past • (Fun) social activities e.g., sports/movie nights; National Chairperson of Christian Family Life Ann Doucet holiday parties or crafts (Halloween, Thanksgiving, and her team of CGL counselors invested many hours to Christmas, etc): family activities; socials for bring the administration manual to completion. In order to parishioners ensure that the CWL could not be held liable, legal counsel • (Formation) activities related to membership and strongly advised that national office receive no reports, have training e.g., helping with open house programs for no national representative, receive no fees and not establish prospective members; mentoring others; making a network. It was determined that CGLs must be parish- posters for advertising. based and parish-driven initiatives to be covered by parish These young girls can and do generate lots of enthusiasm insurance. CGL groups remain under the ministry of youth, and are prospective future CWL members once they turn 16. and exist only at the parish council level. They are often present at League conventions and certainly For councils considering initiating a CGL, you are invited do add a positive dynamic by their energy. to access the administration manual available from national The cautionary notes below included in the office and become familiar with the procedures involved. administration manual must be considered seriously. Often parishes that do not already have opportunities for Before establishing a CGL group, please consider the girls to be involved in church activities are anxious to initiate following: a CGL, and it is an excellent opportunity for young moms 1. Review ethical guidelines for The Catholic Women’s and their daughters to bond and journey in faith together. League of Canada. It is important to read them in their This may be just one more way that we can proclaim entirety and ensure that they are followed. We Have Seen the Lord! V

36 THE CANADIAN LEAGUE / FALL 2013 Introducing

Dorothy Johansen Dorothy joined the League in 1985 at Annunciation Parish Alberta Mackenzie Provincial Council in Edmonton. As she was a new mother, she was President appointed to the Christian family life standing committee. She is currently a member of St. Thomas More Parish Council Dorothy Johansen was in Edmonton. She assists her parish as an adult server and also born in Calgary. She lived as a sound technician. in Fort McMurray from A field worker for many years, Dorothy has travelled Kindergarten to Grade 6, and extensively within the borders of Alberta Mackenzie Provincial attended junior high in Leduc Council, leading workshops on many topics. She held the and senior high in Edmonton. position of Edmonton diocesan president before being She graduated from Memorial elected to provincial council. She has been the provincial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland, with a bachelor of chairperson of spiritual development, legislation, resolutions science in physical geography. and organization prior to becoming provincial president. She Dorothy is married to Mike. When her daughter Jamie was honoured to receive her life membership in 2011. was two years of age, Dorothy returned to school, graduating In her new role as provincial president, Dorothy is most with a degree in chemical engineering from the University grateful for the gift of her League sisters. She has been blessed of Alberta. She has also completed a certificate in oil sands with a very capable, dedicated provincial executive that technology and another in business management while experiences the love of the League and wants to make the continuing to work as a senior project manager. province and country better for everyone. >

Monica Brechka With Claire McKay, Monica co-facilitated the “Treasure Manitoba Provincial President Within” St. Boniface Diocesan Council. She facilitated “Living the Gospel in the New Millennium,” and assisted Faith Monica Brechka was raised Anderson in facilitating the R.S.V.P. Program. From 2004 to in Boggy Creek, the only 2008, Monica served as diocesan president and past president child of Jim Mortemore, who for St. Boniface Diocesan Council. owned and operated a grocery At the provincial level, Monica served as chairperson of store/gas pump/post office, community life, spiritual development, education and health, and Monica (née Connors), and organization. For the 2008 annual national convention a school teacher. Monica in Winnipeg, she served with Terri Scott, liturgy committee received her sacraments at Ste. chairperson. With provincial past president Susan Bernier, Claire Roman Catholic Church in San Clara. she established a partner relationship with Canadian Blood At the University of Manitoba, Monica trained to be a Services. Monica has participated in meetings with the physiotherapist. In 1967, she married Jimmy, her “happy premier and his cabinet. hugger,” loving “companion on the journey,” and maker of In 2012, Monica was presented with life membership and devilled eggs and spinach balls. Her daughter and son-in-law was chosen to attend Catch the Fire! training with provincial have given Monica and Jimmy two fabulous grandchildren. past president Jacqueline Nogier. Monica has been energized Monica joined St. Alphonsus Parish Council in 1977. At by helping to facilitate five workshops where she has seen the the parish level, Monica served as chairperson of community Lord in the faces of her League sisters. life and organization, president and past president. She Monica serves as an extraordinary minister of the th coordinated a 50 anniversary celebration in 1999 and, Eucharist, a lector and leader for Morning Prayer. She is with Diane Chatfield, co-convened the St. Boniface annual currently hosting an ARISE group at her home. She says it is diocesan convention in 2000. In 2002, the parish council membership that has challenged, encouraged and led her on presented her with a 25 year pin and, in 2003, a maple leaf this journey. > service pin.

FALL 2013 / THE CANADIAN LEAGUE 37 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT C-702 SCOTLAND AVENUE WINNIPEG, MB R3M 1X5 E-MAIL: MEMBERSHIP@CWL .CA

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