2020 ANNUAL DIOCESE OF VICTORIA REPORT
President: Christa Grillmair Spiritual Advisor: Fr. Alfredo Monacelli
NOTICE OF MEETING
The 2020 and 2021 Annual General Meetings of the Victoria Diocesan Council of the Catholic Women’s League of Canada will be held on Saturday, April 24, 2021, starting at 9 am at All Saints Parish, Ladysmith.
The meeting will be by invitation only to voting and accredited delegates of the Victoria Diocesan Council and will focus on the transaction of necessary business.
VIRTUAL OPTION: The meeting will be on ZOOM if the COVID-19 restrictions made by the Provincial Health Officer under the Public Health Act and the Emergency Program Act, and by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Victoria prohibit in-person gatherings.
Christa Grillmair
President, Victoria Diocesan Council
Catholic Women’s League
INTRODUCTORY MATERIALS
CORE PURPOSE: Uniting Catholic women to grow in faith, and to promote social justice through service to the church, Canada and the world.
CORE VALUES:
FAITH – following Catholic teaching
SERVICE – local, national and international
SOCIAL JUSTICE – actively involved in society
MISSION STATEMENT: The Catholic Women’s League of Canada calls its members to grow in faith, and to witness to the love of God through ministry and service.
ENVISIONED FUTURE: The Catholic Women’s League of Canada is an inclusive and engaged community of Catholic women inspired by faith. It is:
A vital participant in the church;
A valued partner for social justice;
A respected advocate at all government levels;
Connected to the world.
THE OBJECTS OF THE LEAGUE
The objects of the League shall be to unite Catholic Women of Canada:
to achieve individual and collective spiritual development
to promote the teachings of the Catholic church
to exemplify the Christian ideal in home and family life
to protect the sanctity of human life
to enhance the role of women in the church and society
to recognize the human dignity of all people everywhere
to uphold and defend Christian education and values in the modern world
to contribute to the understanding and growth of religious freedom, social justice, peace and harmony
VICTORIA DIOCESE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE
2020 DIOCESAN OFFICERS
Father Alfredo Monacelli Spiritual Advisor
Christa Grillmair President
Maureen Ingram Past President
Laurel Phyall President-Elect/Organization
Bertha Landrie Community Life/1st Vice President
Linda Foucault Christian Family Life/2nd Vice President
Gerry Heywood Communications
Nancy Horsfield Secretary
Renee Johnson Treasurer
Pat Darling Spiritual Development
Pat Carew Health & Education
Gerry Heywood Legislation/Resolutions
Agnes Geiger Life Member Liaison
2020 PARISH COUNCIL PRESIDENTS
Rosemarie Sather Alberni Valley, Port Alberni
Pat Ellis Christ the King, Courtenay
Carmen Tellier Church of the Ascension, Parksville
Maureen Fath Our Lady of Grace, Salt Spring Island
Roseanne Rowan Our Lady of the Rosary, Langford
Elsie Lambton Our Lady Queen of Peace, Esquimalt
Doreen Fenton Saanich Peninsula, Sidney
Miriam Podmoroff Sacred Heart, Victoria
Sheila Quinn St. Andrew’s, Victoria
Francine Tournier St. Edward’s, Duncan
Mary-Ellen Tonge St. Joseph the Worker, Victoria
Pat Darling St. Mary’s, Ladysmith
Linda Kubinec St. Patrick’s, Campbell River
Lorrie Van Somer St. Patrick’s, Victoria
Lori Ennis St. Peter’s, Nanaimo
Huguette Fox Trinity, Nanaimo
Greetings from Bishop Gary Gordon
Dear Sisters in Christ
Warm greetings and grace to all who gather for the Diocesan Catholic Women’s League AGM. 2020-2021 has been quite a time of challenges, crisis, opportunities, and amazing hope for the “Care of Creation and Witnessing to Truth.”
A new hope for a way of connecting via the internet has been an opportunity for the women on the peripheries of our Diocese to participate at meetings and conventions, YEH ZOOM!
A hope filled focus outward to the poor and marginal of our communities has taken on new meaning for the work of social justice which is such a key component of the CWL, along with nurturing the faith of the members
A renewed hope of witnessing to the truth that the Church is fundamentally missionary with a clarion call via the pandemic that the action of our faith life is primarily as missionary disciples outside of buildings.
The care of our common home has never had such an amazing opportunity to start anew when traveling hither and thither has come to an abrupt stop and a peaceful quite coexistence with all creation is before us, to breath the air and hear the song “We are all interconnected as sisters and brothers in our common home.”
I invite you to look forward to a hope filed journey together in solidarity and a new dialogue for a bright future, and a renewed CWL looking out-ward. May each CWL Counsel seek dynamic paths of inclusion for all women of our diocese who want to make a difference for our Church and society which cries out for healing and accompaniment on our common pilgrim journey to a new heaven and new earth.
Much success and many blessings from our gracious God for the 2021 Annual General Meeting.
In Communion,
Bishop Gary Gordon
March 2021
Dear Sisters in the League,
his is the time of ‘hope’ and ‘patience’. After a full year dominated mainly by fear and frustration for what we all have experienced through this pandemic, we now see light and a path to follow. We see light as the vaccine is finally coming to our country, to our people, our homes, to each one of us. This is the hope we have, the hope we are called to live in these days,
the hope that the Lord our God has not abandoned us.
Our Christian hope is the certainty of a promise of fulfillment that is fulfilling in us, yet not finalized - yet not accomplished in its fullness. We are celebrating the Event of the Resurrection through this Easter season. Yes, He is Risen; we are experiencing His Presence, yet …not in its fullness.
In all things of everyday, the certainty of the Resurrection, of our own resurrection can be perceived in our hearts, in our minds, in the very fibers of our being.
Patience is what allows us to live in this hope. Patience is that particular virtue we ask for
in order to respond to living our hearts and minds. When reality challenges us, we can react instinctively and therefore become prey of our limitations, of our instincts and of our superficialities, which most of the time ends in greater frustration, leaving in us a sense of defeat. Instead when reality challenges us, we can respond. To respond rather than react, is to look at reality according to all factors of life. Being patient allows us to see more,
to see a destiny in what we see, to see a purpose and often even to perceive a Mystery.
That same Mystery we embrace as the Resurrection present to us, calling us to respond according to our hearts and minds. In all things therefore, our response to life becomes the truer path to follow.
This is the time of hope for all of us, hope that the Risen Lord will reveal to us His grace and mercy, calling us to follow with patience in all circumstances of life.
Let us all ask in prayer for the virtue of patience, so to always live in hope.
My most sincere blessing upon all of you, your families and your work,
for the glory of the Risen Lord.
Yours,
Fr Alfredo Monacelli
The Catholic Women’s League of Canada
Victoria Diocesan Council
Dear Sisters and Brothers in the League:
This book is a showcase of the resilience of the women of the Diocese of Victoria Catholic Women’s League during a year like no other in recent history.
2020 came in like a lamb and went out like a lion. We had so many plans for our centenary year and looked forward to celebrations at all levels of our League, including a trip to Montreal to join the rest of our sisters for our 100th Anniversary. But on January 25, 2020 a virus called COVID-19 started to spread across the world and by the end of the year the pandemic affected 99 million people and we mourned the loss of two million people.
Life as we knew it changed dramatically. Since March all our CWL meetings and many community events are cancelled. Church services were allowed for a time, then cancelled altogether. Words like sheltering in place, social distancing, flattening the curve, herd immunity and self-quarantine are now common expressions. We have to wear a mask whenever we leave home and are asked to keep contacts to a very small family or social bubble. Our councils have suffered greatly as in-person meetings are no longer permitted and many of our activities scheduled for 2021 have now been postponed to 2022.
But the women of the CWL are innovative and we continue to try our best to find ways to keep motivated and our members connected and involved. We have learned how to ‘zoom’, to create newsletters, hold parking lot socials, organize virtual bazaars, pray the rosary with our sisters via FaceTime and find ways to visit the shut-ins while remaining socially distant. Although our churches are closed and we struggle to find ways to keep our faith alive, we are able to participate in virtual Mass and accept the Holy Eucharist through an Act of Spiritual Communion.
As I write this letter for our 2020 Annual Report book, we are exactly one year into this pandemic and although a vaccination program has begun, we are not out of the woods yet as variants of the virus keep surfacing. We are still living with stringent restrictions and in-person meetings and social events are prohibited. Our journey has had to overcome many obstacles but the members of the CWL continue to find ways to answer God’s call to grow in faith, and to promote social justice through service to the church, Canada and the world. And for that I am forever grateful to call you my sisters and brothers.
Sincerely yours,
Christa Grillmair
President, Victoria Diocesan Council
The Catholic Women’s League of Canada
Victoria Diocesan Council
Annual General Meeting 2020/2021
ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2020
We started 2020 by looking forward to our various conventions and putting together stories and photos to show off our 100-year history. We prepared to spend the year not only celebrating our past but implementing strategies to prepare us for the future.
January and February had the usual activities – planning, preparing 2019 annual reports, conducting presentations of the national strategy and promoting membership.
At the beginning of March, we held our diocesan spring meeting where Fr. Alfredo led us through a beautiful Lenten reflection, we participated in workshops and spent quality time with our sisters. Then everything changed: COVID 19 arrived. In our diocese, all church services, the diocesan convention and all CWL meetings and social gatherings were canceled. We sanitized everything, washed our hands 100 times a day, distanced ourselves from our friends and family and wore a mask whenever we went out.
In April, we started attending Mass via live-stream or YouTube. Although the pandemic forced us to isolate, the women of the CWL looked for ways to stay socially connected.
In May, we had our first Zoom meeting and we learned to maneuver through this new technology. We celebrated the opening of our churches to limited small bubbles. We could now see each other again and receiving the Holy Eucharist helped feed our souls.
On June 12th, National confirmed that there would be no National Convention and we were all asked to extend our terms of office by one year. This meant a further delay in plans, but our team graciously accepted the challenge.
In July, our Zoom meetings focused on coping strategies as we realized that we were in this for the long haul. We discussed ways to stay involved, motivated and connected. Father Alfie continued to support and enlighten us and helped us to meet the challenges imposed by pandemic restrictions.
Although our National Convention in August was cancelled, an online speaker’s series was made available and this allowed more members from across the country to participate. The speakers presented on the national theme of Caring for our Common Home, Women in the Church and the League of our Future.
In September, spiritual retreats, bazaars and bake sales became virtual events. The Welcome Program was launched to give councils the tools to welcome new members, to validate existing members, and provide a companionship program.
By October, we had adapted to our new reality: we knew that virtual meetings were our only option for the foreseeable future and National sent us guidelines on how to conduct meetings, develop a budget and how to make decisions that would need to be ratified at a future in-person meeting.
On November 19th, all church services were again cancelled and the ‘no meeting’ mandate continued in our Diocese. Round table discussions at our Zoom meetings focused on “how to keep our councils alive”.
In December, we prepared for an Advent and Christmas like no other in recent history. There would be no Mass, family gatherings were limited, and travel was discouraged. It was a very sad time, especially for those living alone. But Father Alfredo reminded us that the first Christmas was also very quiet, and he encouraged us to be hopeful.
During all of 2020, the women of the CWL, especially our sisters in our Victoria Diocese, were creative, resilient and innovative. Standing on the shoulders of those who came before them, they never stopped to look for ways to overcome obstacles and to find ways to carry on. The tree planting project to commemorate our Centenary Anniversary continued. They participated in virtual retreats and supported social justice by writing letters to government on issues such as MAiD, the right of life from conception to natural death and provided meals and clothing to the homeless. If they couldn’t make garments for bazaars, they made them for Tanzania. If they couldn’t hold bake sales, they created no-bake sales. Virtual bazaars raised funds to support charities. If they couldn’t meet, they prayed the rosary on the phone or on Zoom. Councils developed newsletters and reached out to members with regular phone calls and emails. I encourage you to read all the reports in this book; you will be amazed at what the women of the Diocese of Victoria have accomplished this year!
When we chose Solid Rock, Living Waters as our diocesan theme, we didn’t realize how appropriate that was. The pandemic forced us to change how we practice our catholic faith, and we are sad that we cannot attend Mass and receive the Holy Eucharist. But the life of the church is not confined to a building. Our faith means that we are to follow Christ through all the events of our lives, especially right now, and to remember that “The Lord is my rock” (Psalm 18.1) and “Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38). As St. Louis Grignion de Montfort said, “God is a spring of living water which flows unceasingly into the hearts of those who pray.” Built on the rock, united in prayer, we will carry on.
As my term as President comes to an end in April 2021, I look forward to serving you in my capacity of Past-President and in whatever challenges and opportunities come my way. I am grateful for the support of Father Alfredo and the sisterhood of my team for giving me purpose and encouragement. You are the wind beneath my wings.
ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2020
PAST PRESIDENT - Maureen Ingram
Dear Catholic Women of the Victoria Diocese:
This report comes with some of your inspiring stories of how you are creatively serving during the Pandemic. Though the annual reports submitted were at 25%, I did have many opportunities to hear of your parishes activities by phone or by the moccasin telegraph. Covid has sharpened our listening skills. Most councils met by Zoom or executive meetings by telephone. This was truly a year of reaching out in whatever way possible. The survey confirmed that the highest percentage of our members is still in the 65 – 74 age group.
One council had great success with a card or letter or a phone call to every member within their membership. In turn, the sender requested each recipient reach out with a phone call or card to at least 2 more members. This resulted in a monthly check-in for every member. Challenges and needs are reported to the executive for action.
One parish reported a Covid-safe clothing drive to benefit street people within the physical confines of their parish. Another parish has their meeting hall booked for the winter months with overnight accommodation and a hot meal every night. A safe room is supplied for storage. Mitts hats and boots are available for those who have lost theirs.
There were many questions about when the strategic planning format would be ratified. As this format results in a change of our bylaws there will be a national dedicated ballot. The when and how is not yet announced. Several parishes are now using a modified format due to a shortage of nominees for chair positions. Many parish councils have temporarily combined standing committees as needed.
The Diocesan Health Care Team organized four well attended workshops on Pastoral Care.
Thank you to the Past-Presidents who shared their year via the report. We have many unsung “Marthas and Marys” in our Diocese. Virtual hugs to the many women who shared their friendship and love with those in need.
SECRETARY: Nancy Horsfield
This has been my 3rd year as Diocesan Secretary and it has been a most interesting and challenging one. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions our Diocesan terms were extended for another year. As we were unable to hold our regular Diocesan convention and fall and spring interim meetings, our Diocesan President, Christa Grillmair, found more creative ways to keep in touch. She established monthly Zoom meetings with the Diocesan Executive and Council Presidents. It was a challenge at first to adapt to this new format for taking minutes but, because the meetings were recorded, I was able to use the video for review and accuracy which made the task much easier. All the minutes were reviewed, accepted and circulated to the members. These meetings have proven to be a real blessing as I have been able to connect with my Diocesan sisters on a regular, monthly basis instead of only a few times a year.
I have continued to update the Diocesan Comprehensive Register which is a work in progress and requires a keen eye for detail. I will forward the current 2020-2021 revision to the Provincial and National offices. The motion book has also been kept up to date.
The Victoria Diocese has 16 councils with 12 providing annual secretary reports for 2020. I compiled the results of these reports and submitted them in an extensive report to the Provincial Secretary. My term of office will end in April either at an in-person AGM to discuss business items and hold elections or by a virtual election process on Zoom. I will endeavour to offer mentorship to my successor when requested as the role of Diocesan Secretary is a busy and challenging one. I would like to acknowledge my appreciation for the tireless support I have received from the wonderful faith-filled women of our Diocesan council who are so dedicated to the League, to God and Canada. I would especially like to thank President Christa Grillmair for her help and patience. It has been an honour to work with everyone. May Our Lady of Good Counsel continue to bless our work.
TREASURER - Renée Johnson
The year began with such promise; we had such plans, then, thwarted by a global pandemic. No Diocesan Convention, no Provincial Convention, no National Convention – no, no, no – all those nos forced us to realign our priorities and find new ways to do the things that are really important.
No Diocesan Convention meant no collection for the Freda Smith Bursary. So, we took advantage of the fact that we were not spending any money sending the President to the National Convention by transferring $750 from the President’s Travel Fund to the Bursary Fund.
No, or very few, day to day transactions freed up time for considering the state of the Diocesan Council finances (very good, maybe too good) and thinking about how we should spend your money. First of all, we have to decide how much money the Diocesan Council should keep in reserve. If we decide that the amount on hand is excessive, then we can make some decisions about how to use the money.
This is where you come in. Please, as the pandemic isolation heads towards its finale, take the time to look at the Financial Statements included in this booklet. Pay particular attention to the amounts that are the bank balance and the investments. What is your opinion about the amounts that we have on hand? Do you think the amount is excessive? How much do you think we should hold in reserve? If you think that we have too much in reserve, what do you think we should do with the “excess”? Think about this. Talk with your sisters in the League. Let me know if I can provide any other information that would help with your consideration. I am looking forward to hearing from you.
SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT: Pat Darling
Two of the many strengths of CWL women are creativity and adaptability. Although, the COVID-19 pandemic, declared soon after our diocesan spring interim meeting resulted in the cancellation of in-person gatherings including meetings, conventions and retreats, our councils were still able to share and nurture our faith with members. 2020 became the year for members to spend more time in reflection and prayer. Members moved outdoors individually or in small groups (while adhering to COVID-19 guidelines and orders). They reflected on the beauty of and care for God’s creation, some prayed the rosary outdoors and others planted centenary trees. Prayers and reflections were shared virtually as our diocesan council and some parish councils ventured into zoom gatherings. Other councils shared via mail and phone calls, while others used e-mail and e-newsletters to reach members. Some reflections followed the liturgical year, others included 12 hours of prayer for palliative care in May and care for our common home during the Season of Creation. The lives of heroic women of service in the Church were studied by one council. Others were able to reflect on our patroness, Mary our Lady of Good Counsel, and many members attended a nationally televised Mass on her feast day, April 26th.
Members of our councils are involved in the various ministries and liturgical life of their parishes. It was a challenge not to gather for Eucharist celebrations during much of the year. We learned the importance of being Christians outside church walls and to look to The Horizon of Hope. Our members also learned how to gather for Sunday and weekday livestream Masses from St. Andrew’s Cathedral and then from many of their own parishes. Many Councils encouraged members to watch the excellent CWL National Summer speaker series, which is still available on the cwl.ca website.
I wish to acknowledge and thank all who assumed my responsibilities at the Spring Interim meeting while I was travelling in India. I am grateful for and commend each of our Spiritual Development chairs for continuing to nurture the faith of your members during this unprecedented year. I would like to thank our President, Christa and members of our Diocesan team who supported me while I was struggling with family illnesses. Last, by not least, I would like to express my gratitude to our Diocesan Spiritual Advisor Fr. Alfredo Monacelli, for your many words of wisdom at each diocesan monthly zoom meeting. Thank you for reminding us that our membership in the CWL is a calling, a Christian vocation.
ORGANIZATION -Chairperson: Laurel Phyall
The Concise Oxford Dictionary gives the meaning of the noun organization “as an organized body or system or society”. The verb organize means “to give working order, make arrangements for”. In the last three years I have tried to accomplish both the noun and the verb, as in giving working order to the organization, especially in the three Annual General Meeting/Convention booklets I have produced. I could not have done it without your help and I thank you for that.
Thank you to the Organization Chairs who completed the online reports. I was glad to see that those who had issues with the online membership system persevered and got their memberships up-to-date. We had an increase of 32 members in 2020, from 999 in 2019 to 1,031.
The Covid-19 pandemic has been the biggest challenge for our Councils and members individually. The inability to meet, socialize, attend mass and collect dues has been overwhelming for us all. Out of the darkness has come some light, we all had an opportunity to go to the National website and take part in the Summer Speakers Series and to attend two retreats by Bishop Stephen Jensen and Father Con O’Mahoney. We have also been able to attend webinars on various subjects. Zoom meetings have become the norm and we are able to meet more frequently and without the expense of travel. Several councils are now writing and mailing (email & post) newsletters to their members.
We need to offer our thanks and praise to our CWL sisters who have taken on the tasks of the committee work for the ‘League of the Future’. Thanks to them we are well into Year 3 and progressing smoothly toward the goals. The new Welcome Program is a fine example of their work. It is a wonderful ‘tool kit’ for new and renewing memberships. I look forward to the instructed vote when we as a membership may choose to make amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws.
I have enjoyed the position of Organization Chair and hope that I have in some way encouraged your work or passed on some tidbit that sparked an idea for you.
Thank you for helping with these important steps in keeping our organization strong.The Catholic Women’s League of Canada.
COMMUNICATIONS - Chairperson: Gerry Heywood
This Diocesan CWL Communications Report should be read in conjunction with my Resolutions/Legislation submission. In my opinion, these three portfolios work hand -in-glove with each other. On the other hand, it may be argued that good communication is essential in all our CWL positions and certainly in our relationships with others and with God.
There are three areas that have taken up most of my time as Communications Chair. These areas are: 1. Putting together and presenting “The Whole Ball of Wax” workshop for the Spring Interim Meeting, March 3rd at Christ The King in Courtenay/Comox 2. Editing our CWL section of the Diocese of Victoria web site and, 3. Producing a new Diocese of Victoria CWL FaceBook page. I wish to emphasize, my sisters in the League, that the quality of these last two items depend largely on your activities and thoughts in your own parishes! Please let me know what you are up to so we can share them with the rest of the Island.
Let me say with certainty that the Catholic Women’s League of Canada is alive and well. While, we may be stuck in our homes and restricted in what we can do outside our doors, nevertheless there are more workshops, retreats and information on our National and Provincial web sites than ever before. Oh, and yes, add our FaceBook page and the CWL section of the Diocese of Victoria web site to find even more sources of information and spiritual renewal.
Finally, I am pleased to announce that I now know how to Zoom! I enjoy our diocesan and parish executive Zoom meetings because I get to connect with my CWL friends and help plan and discuss issues and events that impact on our Catholic life. While I know that many of our parish councils use this service to hold executive and general meetings, I encourage those of you who have not tried it yet, Zoom on.
I hope to hear from you members how you are managing and what you are doing during this health crisis so we can share and connect with each other in friendship.
Remember to go to CWL Victoria or Victoria CWL on your search bar to get to our web page on the diocesan site. In addition, put CWL Victoria Diocese in the FaceBook search bar to find our page. These are two different places but to make it easier, you can use the same search words.
Stay well and stay safe until we can meet again in person.
COMMUNITY LIFE - Chairperson: Bertha Landrie
Number of Councils reporting were: 5 out of 16. All Council chairs reporting were familiar with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Some Councils supported efforts of minority groups like bullying, domestic violence, poverty, homelessness, human trafficking and racism.
Councils volunteer, give financial and prayerful support to restorative justice programs, soup kitchens, clothing drives, drop in shelters, food banks, food hampers, as well as assisting Indigenous people. Councils are studying resolutions and writing letters in support of them.
Fifty percent of Councils reported knowing Canada's official immigration and refugee policies. One council said “The refugee family they support have become part of their community.” One hundred percent of Councils reporting, participated in Citizenship and Remembrance Day celebrations.
Councils are aware of Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CCODP) organizations. With regards to developing countries, one chair person was somewhat aware of conditions of child labour.
The biggest challenges this year were attracting chairpersons, finding speakers as well as dealing with the Covid pandemic.
One council's greatest accomplishment was doing 40 days for Lent. Another Council reported having to change their focus this. Normally they make garments for their bazaar but this year they made garments and items to send to Tanzania.
One Community Life Chairperson commented that “Maybe the new CWL Plan being introduced that combines chairperson positions might combine Community Life with another chair so it is not so overwhelming for one person to do.” There were 10 vacancies reported for this standing committee in 2020, which shows people are hesitant to take this position.
Diocesan Chairperson's Activities: By February my back which had been sore since November. was improving and I was so thankful to be able to get around better. I did four school presentations, helped at a luncheon for Homeless People and participated in the service for World Day of Prayer. I had almost a full calendar for March when Covid 19 hit. I was feeling rather disconnected but at least I had the phone and computer. After a lot of coaxing and help from Laurel and Christa I learned how to Zoom. Now, I am feeling more connected to my CWL sisters. I have sent communiqués, and called my group as well as trying to keep up with any developments happening at the Provincial and National level but not a lot to report during this Covid pandemic year.
CHRISTIAN FAMILY LIFE - Chairperson: Linda Foucault
Thank You to the Christian Family Chairpersons for all Parish CWL for submitting your Annual Reports. You proved Covid19 did not stop us from working for God and our Country in a different way at home.
Emailed Communique’ #8 to everyone and the COVID19 Poem, Adoption in B.C., Family Violence: COVID19 home isolation has led to increase in abuse and family violence. Emailed all Christian Family Life Chairpersons the Canadian Online Consultation Regarding Medical Assistance in Dying.
Attended Victoria Diocesan Spring Interim Meeting: Christ the King Courtenay, B.C. March 3, 2020. Fr. Alfredo led us in Pope Francis’ reflection on Lent. Workshop: Dealing with Change and Conflict- Getting to Win-win Solution Christa Grillmair gave a power point presentation. Workshop: The Whole Ball of Wax Legislation and Resolutions: Concerns on M.A.I.D.
Eucharist Minister on. Sundays in St. Mary’s Parish, Ladysmith. I hope many of you, my CWL Sisters, made it to World Day of the Sick. And Lent Mass. Attended World Day of Prayer Ecumenical service at Ladysmith United Church.
Soon we will be able to worship all together in our Parishes again. Continue praying for your families to God for protection from the COVID19.
It was a pleasure working with all CWL Sisters for Our Lady of Good Counsel.
[As our first National President, Bellelle Guerin, at the first dominion convention in Toronto 1921 stated: “We have before us some days of serious and strenuous work. Let us approach it with all the zeal and good will that is in our souls. Shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart, let us go forth from this convention bound by a solidarity that nothing can break, gentlewoman, but brave soldiers holding aloft our banner of patriotism to our beloved country and of inviolable fidelity to our glorious faith!”]
HEALTH AND EDUCATION - Chairperson: Pat Carew
I produced and distributed two communiqués. My main focus was on the Freda Smith Bursary. I received all applications, appointed a committee to review the applications and determine the recipient. The winner was Julia Jungwirth who attends JP Vanier in Courtenay. I then contacted Julia by telephone and sent letters to the other applicants. Due to COVID 19 restrictions it was not possible to present the award and certificate in person so they were mailed to Julia.
LIFE MEMBER LIASON - Agnes Geiger
There are currently four Life Members in the Victoria Diocese – two are Resolution & Legislation Chairpersons at the Parish level and one is President for her Parish Council. Two Parish Councils have submitted nomination forms for two Provincial Executives who have completed the criteria for Life Memberships.
I have participated in Zoom Diocesan Meetings when able.
Mass cards were sent to families of deceased Provincial Life Members, get well cards were sent to ill Life Members. I sent Diocesan Life Member’s news to the Provincial Life Member Liaison, Carol Penno and sent on Provincial and National Life Members communiqués to Margaret Beardon, Sheila Quinn and Ann Devlin, the three Life Members in the Victoria Diocese. Victoria Life Members were remembered with a card on their Birthday.
RESOLUTIONS/LEGISLATION - Chairperson: Gerry Heywood
Please note: All of our parish councils that have Resolutions chairpersons also combine this position with the Legislation Chair. Therefore, to reflect this reality, I am combining the Diocesan Resolutions and Legislation activities into this one report.
2020 has been a unique year. Please notice that I said “unique” and not “terrible” as the long months have been both a good thing and a bad thing for us. I think, when we look back on these times, we will see how this trial has strengthen us and forced us into new avenues of service to God, our country and each other.
The year began well and we held our regular Spring Interim Meeting at Christ the King Church in Courtenay. The meeting was well attended and our local CWL sisters were excellent and generous hosts. As part of the meeting, I presented an hour long workshop called, “Communications, Legislation, Resolutions—the Whole Ball of Wax”. I will speak about this workshop more in my Communications Report but I wish to let everyone know that when things get back to whatever “normal” is, I would be happy to present this workshop to any parish council who wants it.
As luck would have it, all of our Diocesan and Parish Council Executive Positions were frozen due to the epidemic. All our existing Diocesan Chairpersons agreed to carry on for another year until our election process could be completed. While it meant that the existing executive needed to continue their work for an unexpected third year, it also meant that our Diocese had a cadre of experienced people. Thank God for that since COVID and the Federal Government threw a maelstrom of problems at us.
First of all, how do we as an executive even talk to each other with all the COVID restrictions? (Please see Communications Report.) Next, how do we address the Government of Canada’s determination to open up qualifications for receiving medical assisted death? I’m happy to say both us, here in the Diocese, and our Provincial Council had a lot to say about this and sent out a lot of information on this subject to be shared with our local councils.
While we may not have submitted any new resolution, over all, our Diocesan and Parish Councils are determined to educate ourselves and work to preserve life at birth and as we age.
PARISH PRESIDENT’S REPORTS
ALBERNI VALLEY/ PORT ALBERNI-President: Rosemarie Sather
Our council has been struggling in the past couple of years because we cannot get ladies to fill the executive positions. Our treasurer is now our president as well, our past president is not doing anything, and the past, past president is keeping the computer files for both the president and treasurer’s position while also acting as secretary. Thankfully, we have a lady who stepped up as Organization chair. Most other positions are empty.
In January we had both our Diocesan president and incoming president visit our meeting. They gave us an informative talk about what we can do to help grow our council.
In February, our president spoke at the masses to recruit members. We also provided a cake which we shared with the parish for Fr. Harrison’s 5th anniversary as a priest.
We have one Sunday a month where we provide coffee and tea after mass, in the hall, and have changed it into a mini brunch. Members bring savoury items to share and those participating give us a donation. It has meant that we receive between $100 to $150 per month as a fundraiser. In February we added a bake sale to our brunch.
Everything came to a roaring stop in March due to Covid. We had been in the planning stages for Our Lady of Good Council luncheon. Nothing has happened since March. We do not have Zoom meetings as most of our ladies are older and do not have a computer. We still gave out our Christmas donation to St Vincent de Paul and our priest.
We haven’t really done anything else as without church services our phoning committee is our only link with the ladies. This month we have started our membership renewals and we will see how many stay with us.
CHRIST THE KING - COURTENAY - President: Patricia Ellis
Our Council was fully active for the first 2½ months of 2020. To start the year, we invited Laurel Phyall, Diocesan President-Elect and Chairperson of Organization, to address our January monthly meeting on the progress made on the CWL Strategic Plan in Year 1. All were impressed that over 1,000 volunteer hours had been exerted on the Plan in 2019.
February 4th was the date of our Annual General Meeting and our Council Election. 12 ladies allowed their names to stand for election, however, 2 withdrew and another resigned a short time later for health reasons. As a result, our council operation has been strained, with key vacancies in the positions of 1st VP/Organization and 2nd VP/Spiritual Development, as well as Communications. Meanwhile, at the February monthly meeting, our Council approved a motion to financially support the Community Life Partner Project with the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), to rebuild a water well for Pieta Bhavan (Mercy House) in Kerala, India.
Our council hosted the Diocesan Spring Interim Meeting on March 3 rd. 35 of our members attended, while others volunteered in the kitchen and at the administration desks. Days later, 22 members took part in the World Day of Prayer on March 6th, hosted by the Black Creek Mennonite Church. Our next event was to be a CWL Lenten Supper for our Parish on March 13th, but that very day the Provincial Health Officer closed our church to services and meetings. Our plans for the year went “on hold”.
Under COVID-19 restrictions, our members needed to come together in a different way, and so our Telephone Tree began in April, with callers reaching out to all members. This initiative was aided by a monthly newsletter, keeping members informed of the ongoing work and efforts of our council, our parish, the Diocese and the national organization. Zoom Executive meetings soon ensued.
Our focus now was to provide contact, experiences and activities in which our members could participate during isolation. Faith was foremost. With the rich resources on the cwl.ca website, we were able to compile an hour-long program for the Day of Prayer for Palliative Care on May 5th. 35 members signed up for a 1-hour time slot to pray for Palliative Care, covering the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Commencing in August, we attended League-sponsored webinars. Additionally, we staged our own Zoom Rosary as part of the Rosary Coast-to-Coast Initiative on Thanksgiving Sunday.
Bill C-7 was our legislative focus for much of the year, and we joined letter-writing campaigns to our MPs and Senators expressing our desire for Palliative Care over more “MAiDS”. Financially, we gave charitable donations this year despite a lack of fundraising, thanks to the generosity of our members.
Our membership for 2020 remained at 128, with 3 members passing away over the course of the year, including Jean Scullion, at 102 our longest-serving member, with 86 years of CWL membership.
CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION, PARKSVILLE - President: Carmen L. Tellier
Despite the pandemic, we have managed to accomplish several things. Having been several months without a treasurer in 2019, our first order of business was to disperse funds earmarked for the charities we support, such as Manna lunches for the homeless, Ascension Children/Youth Education, Catholic Near East Welfare Association, Chalice, Covenant House, Catholic Missions in Canada, ETRA, Haven Society, Oceanside Hospice and Salvation Army, and awarding bursaries to three post-secondary students.
At our Membership Tea in early February, we welcomed three new members and handed out many service pins. We had a very active prayer shawl ministry under the direction of our Spiritual Development Chair, Maureen Murray, who also organized our secret prayer partner, based on the same idea as Kris Kringle, only with prayers instead of gifts.
Barb Potter, one of our members, sends get well cards and bereavement cards to those who are ill or have lost a loved one, and I deliver prayer shawls to the sick. Early in the pandemic, we organized, by phone, volunteers from our council to call ten assigned members once monthly to check and see how they're doing. Mostly everyone had a family member, friend or neighbour checking on them. As President, I've also been keeping in touch with our membership via email, with thoughts for the day, news from Diocesan, and asking their approval on budget decisions.
In February, we enjoyed our guest speaker, Rhonda Konolly from Edward Jones, who spoke to us on the topic: “After the Will”, Financial Estate Planning.
Prior to our monthly general meetings, we attend Mass, specially said for us. Our League banner in on display on the altar. Following the meeting, we break bread together, enjoying a delectable lunch served by four members. Rose Anna Chorney has arranged us in groups who take turns preparing these lunches. What a perfect way to get to know each other better! Each of us pays $5 which goes into our general revenues and is put toward paying registration fees for our members attending conventions.
Unable to have our fall bazaar, we put out a plea to our parish to support our charities in a different way. Through the parish newsletter, we asked that rather than donating baking and crafts, they make a cash donation in the amount they would normally spend on supplies to make something. This was very well supported, and since we were attending Mass in small numbers, people simply dropped their specially marked envelopes in the collection basket.
In November, we supported the Canadian Legion by having their members lay wreaths for the CWL at the Remembrance Day Services in Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Bowzer.
This year has been very difficult, as the work we do is very important to all of us. We miss praying, organizing, socializing and helping each other as well as others in our activities. Our sisterhood works so well together, we support one another, and we are really looking forward to the day when we can continue in this important work.
OUR LADY OF GRACE /SALT SPRING ISLAND - President: Maureen Fath
This year has been an extremely challenging one for our small rural council. We have not managed to fundraise, but have still been able to financially support several of our yearly projects. These include: Remembrance Day wreath; local food bank; local “meals in the park” Christmas gifts. We did plant a lovely yellow rhododendron shrub to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the CWL – thank you Father Scott. We have had several ZOOM meetings, and our first newsletter has been distributed. We know that 2021 will certainly be an improvement in the way we can connect with each other again.
OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE, VICTORIA - President: ElsieLambton
For the first three months, CWL Sunday, third Sunday of each month, members participate in the Liturgy of the Mass. Our banner is placed in the sanctuary near the pulpit for all to see. An invitation to the ladies of the parish is included in the announcements to join us for coffee during the social after Mass. The extra collection is for the 3 Missions for whom we send $300 each at Easter and Christmas. Fortunately, we were able to honor this commitment.
Although we did not have our annual bake sale, funds were available to cover the cost of the hosts for the Parish.
Several volunteers participated in the weekly religious service at Sunset Lodge. As we shall be included in the vaccination of the residents, we look forward to resuming the Catholic service with Father John.
Communion and visits to parishioners who are shut-ins, will continue when allowed.
One new member of the Parish has completed her introduction to the Faith and has shown eagerness to join our Council. We look forward to our first open monthly meeting.
OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY - LANGFORD - Rosanne Rowan, president
Our 31 members began the year of 2020 with enthusiasm. We supported our usual charities, and added a $500 donation toward a defibrillator for our parish hall.
We hosted a Heritage Fashion Show and Tea on Feb. 28, which was great fun and interestingly educational regarding authentic fashions and music from the 1890’s to the 1960’s. The tea and dainties provided by our members were wonderful, and well received by our full hall.
The March monthly meeting was full of the promise of activities and gatherings, and then came COVID. Fr.Dean asked that our members be responsible for the sanitizing of the used areas after each weekend Mass, so that became the one effort we could make together for the common good, thinking that the shut-down would not last long. Wrong! So without our monthly meetings and lunches, our activities usually planned for the parish and community, we have been keeping in touch by email and phone. Our Prayer Line is active and provides an outlet and consolation when it is needed.
When this ordeal is over, it will be with an entirely new and different perspective on what is important and how we serve each other. We anxiously await that time, as we have realized just how much community and gatherings mean to the well-being of all of us.
SAANICH PENINSULA /SIDNEY - President Doreen Fenton
We started our year with 63 members and during the year 2 moved and 2 died. It was with great sadness that we could not honour our two sisters that died during the Covid restrictions.
We were able to have 2 in person meetings in early 2020. In February Cathy Westwick was our guest speaker on the three core values of the CWL – Faith, Service and Social Justice. In March our new executive was installed.
Since March our main form of communication has been through emails and phone calls.
In March all members were sent the contact information (with permission) of all our members and were encouraged to phone one member a week. I have regularly sent out emails twice a month with encouraging prayers, songs and action plans. Members have been kept informed and encouraged to act on Bills C6 and C7, encouraged to register for the Summer Speakers Series, to participate in the Seasons of Creation, and National Catholic Health Care week in October.
In warmer weather we had two gatherings in the church parking lot. Our executive had 3 in person meetings and 3 Zoom meetings. For Advent we prayed the rosary on Zoom every week and this will continue on in 2021.
Membership drive was a challenge as it was done through email, phone calls, the parish bulletin, and handing out flyers after the masses in November. By the end of the year we did have 2/3 of our members renewing and one new membership.
I am most grateful for our monthly Diocesan Zoom meetings for the contact with all the other Presidents and the information received.
SACRED HEART - VICTORIA: President: Miriam Podmoroff
We had 39 members in 2020.
We began the year with the executive installation ceremony. In February we celebrated with our yearly Friendship Tea with members inviting friends. We had a nice turnout, played get to know you games and asked for suggestions for the year’s activities. In March we had an excellent speaker focusing on nurturing our spiritual lives.
And then… Covid 19 regulations had all meetings be held on-line. We worked hard to teach those members, who were interested and able, how to connect via Zoom. April, May and June meetings included praying the rosary, followed by a book club meeting. We noticed that some members who would not typically come to in-person meetings did join on-line. We revitalized the phoning committee to connect with all members, continued with our monthly newsletter, encouraged members to phone each other, and periodically sent emails to meet the challenges of keeping in touch.
In September, we gathered outside, at a members home, to pray the rosary. It was a warm and gorgeous morning. The Lord was with us. In October we were blessed to have our spiritual director, Fr. Alfie, celebrate an in-person mass for our council and St. Joseph the Worker’s council. We used this opportunity to have our centenarian fig tree blessed, and await the preparation of the grounds to plant it. In November we reluctantly accepted that a proposed in-person baby shower would not occur so we dropped off the baby gift donation, but had our member join on-line to show us her baby and share her discoveries on being a new mom. Our December on-line meeting included drawing 3 names to give prizes for early-bird registrations. We were also nourished with an Advent Retreat by our spiritual director. Throughout the Christmas season, we made sure we connected with all members by phone, and also by hand delivering a Christmas letter or sending it via mail.
ST. ANDREW’S CATHEDRAL - VICTORIA: President: Sheila A. Quinn
We are a small group of approximately 15 members who are eager to meet monthly (except in January) to pray together, discuss latest CWL news and exchange spirited stories on topics as suggested by our gifted Spiritual Chair, Hedy. Our limited executive, President, Treasurer and Spiritual Chair have agreed to serve another year. Few members have e-mail so communicating is by phone calls or mail outs.
Sadly two members passed last year, one being our oldest member 103 years of age. She attended meetings till she was 100 even after breaking her hip, she was such an inspiration to all. May they both, together with all who have gone before us, RIP. Two more members have relocated to live with families due to ill health.
Following Mass and lunch at our February meeting Provincial Education & Health Chair Kathy Weswick gave a presentation on “The Future of the League” outlining the 3 core values as being Faith, Service and Social Justice and engaged our group in discussion related to those topics. A Lenten daily reflection book to read at home was given out.
The March meeting happened just as we began to hear of the dreaded virus COVID-19. A good meeting theme suggested would be to talk about fear reminding ourselves of the many examples Jesus gives us to lessen our fears. The handout from our Spiritual Chair entitled “Jesus reminds us How To Use Our Passivity To Lessen Our Fears”. Little did we realize that would be our last meeting for the year.
Members shared Easter and Thanksgiving greetings by phone calls and cards.
May mailing was a Spiritual sharing focused on a meditation from Henry Nouwen on how to clear a pathway to our heart, remain calm, and find comfort and peace with being at home with ourselves and with God.
In preparation for Advent, Daily Reflection Books along with Christmas cards were sent to members.
During December we donated 16 large Poinsettia plants to adorn the dining room tables, each one accompanied with a Christmas card, to Mount St. Mary’s Hospital to brighten the day for seniors in lockdown.
In May of 2021 the Cathedral League looks forward to celebrating their 100th Anniversary of the first subdivision formed on the island, as it was known then.
May Our Lady of Good Counsel bless us and The Holy Spirit hear and guide us as we continue to pray for a sense of normality and peace in our lives and our world.
ST. EDWARD THE CONFESSOR, DUNCAN - President: Francine Tournier
We jumpstarted our year excited about the CWL’s 100th anniversary, St. Edward’s Council’s 70th anniversary, and plans for hosting the 2020 Diocesan Convention. Diocesan President, Christa presented a video on the Progress of the Strategic Planning Committees and walked us through the 3 Pillars Planning Exercise. In honour of the CWL 100th anniversary, 100 daffodils were planted in front of Queen of Angels School with the help of the kindergarten class and their teacher.
Our first Zoom general meeting was held in October with a good turnout of members. We also celebrated a Zoom Christmas luncheon with our sisters. We started the year with 63 members, four members passed and three joined for a yearend total of 62 members. Service pins were not awarded in 2020 due to gathering restrictions, however fourteen members who earned service awards were recognized in our Parish Bulletin.
In the spirit of our Faith Core Value, we supported our Parish with hosting the Annual World Day of Prayer. A collaboration with local churches and Queen of Angels School students united us in prayer, song, and a collection for the women of Zimbabwe. Lenten Reflection booklets were distributed, and guest speaker, Phil Jennings, of St. Edward’s Adult Faith Formation Ministry, presented a Lenten reflection on the Seven Sorrows of Mary: Lent with Mary.”
Beautiful reflections, lines from Scripture, entertaining and humourous emails; plus phone calls were shared by members for community. Losses of family and friends were felt not just by individuals, but were shared and prayed on. Members assisted in delivering Parish Advent Packages. Many partici-pated in the online retreat by Bishop Stephen Jensen, and many prayed the Rosary for Canadian Catholic Missions. Our Council requested a mass in recognition of Fr. David John’s ordination.
In the spirit of our Service and Social Justice Core Values, we shared in the fun and goodwill of “creatively” creating Valentines for the local women’s shelter. Donations were made to the Pieta Bhavan Project and Esk-Omi were also recipients of our designated donation. Other donations in 2020 included repairs to our church, local charities, and our school. A ‘safe’ clothing drive was successfully held for two young girls of a parish-related family.
A Prayer Shawl sub-committee was formed by a new member. A prayer card with the name of the shawl ‘crafter’ will accompany each shawl, and a customized ‘CWL Duncan’ label will be sewn into each shawl which will be blessed and presented to individuals as needed.
Members were invited to join Delta Hospice Society and protest the MAID requirement. A letter of congratulations was sent to The Hamlets in Duncan, a residence where no MAID will be allowed.
Our year ended with deepened commitments to CWL sisterhood, new-found strength within ourselves, and a deep longing for faith, science and good health to see us through the next year.
ST. JOSEPH THE WORKER - VICTORIA - President Barbara Strong
Our newly elected president, Mary-Ellen Tonge presided at our January and February meetings. She resigned in the fall. Our president elect resigned in June, so I took on the role of acting president.
A day course for Level 1 Food Safe, previously initiated and funded in 2019 was held in February. Alongside Fr. Alfie the class of 25 included CWL members, and other parish ministry volunteers.
With Covid19 restrictions in force we gathered for an informal meeting (masks & social distancing) in late June at the Kinsmen Gorge Park. Our executive met in the park in mid September. The monthly Zoom meetings with the Diocesan Council inspired our executive to meet via Zoom in November.
A Fig tree was planted to commemorate the National’s 100th anniversary. It is located outside Fr. Alfie’s office window. The planting was posted on the Diocesan website and council Facebook page.
Some members followed the CWL National Lenten Webinar and the informative Summer Speaker Series.
Christa, our Diocesan president set up a Zoom link that allowed us to celebrate our Christmas Potluck Lunch. Fr. Alfie attended.
Irene Helie, co chair of Christian Family Life, took over the phone committee and contacted members, sent out birthday and Christmas cards to isolated members and started a weekly prayer request for members and parishioners experiencing difficulties.
SAINT MARY’S – (All Saints Parish) - Ladysmith/Chemainus - President: Pat Darling
Early in 2020 our new council executive was installed, In January, guest speaker Diocesan President Christa updated our members on the national strategic plan and in February we welcomed a guest speaker from Nanaimo Crossroads Pregnancy Centre. In March members of our Council attended the Diocesan Spring Interim Meeting and some took part in the World Day of Prayer service at Ladysmith United Church. A few days later, on March 11, the COVID-19 Corona virus pandemic was declared and in-church gatherings including liturgies and meetings were cancelled. Although our social gatherings also came to an end for the year, the 63 members of St. Mary’s CWL were still able to grow in faith, albeit in new ways, and to promote social justice through service to the church, Canada and the world.
Our Communications Chair has been “the glue” holding our council together. She began a monthly e-newsletter focusing on the lives of our members, including prayer requests for members and their families. She and our co-spiritual chair began Monday morning reflections and prayers which were emailed weekly to council members so that all could pray together while alone.
Our Council did not raise funds in 2020, already having sufficient funds to maintain our local, national and international financial commitments. The council supported Catholic Education with donations to 2 Island Catholic Schools: St. John Paul II, Port Alberni and Queen of Angels, Duncan. Two bursaries were awarded to Ladysmith grade 12 graduates. Other local donations were made to the Franciscan Poor Clare Sisters of Duncan, Ladysmith Family and Friends, and the local food bank. A special contribution was made to the Sacred Space Chapel at the new Cowichan Hospice House in Duncan. St. Mary’s Council supported Catholic Missions in Canada, Development and Peace, Mary’s Meals and Children of Haiti.
A keen group of talented knitters and sewers who had been working together to make items destined to needy children and youth in Tanzania through the Tumaini project continued their good work from their homes.
In September many members including our pastor Fr. Mel Bayron were able to gather, while socially distant, in the Catholic section of the Ladysmith Cemetery to plant our CWL centenary pink dogwood tree. We look to the horizon of hope and a return to regular in-person gatherings, hugs, prayers and liturgies in 2021.
ST. PATRICK’S - CAMPBELL RIVER - President: Linda Kubinec
2020 started like any other year with meetings and plans for the upcoming year to continue with our regular activities and fundraisers; but that was not to be. Our council figuring that COVID 19 would be over soon, didn’t have Executive Meetings until it was absolutely necessary in the fall to give our donations away and Christmas gifts to the parish, priests and staff.
The zoom meetings ended up being the answer and although we didn’t embrace the idea at first, now it appears that most of the Executive and Standing Committee representative are enjoying the experience.
Although we didn’t have many meetings our organization chairman continued to accept memberships to a total of 93 in 2020; plus updated the email address so now other than eight members everyone has an email address on file.
Our Treasurer assisted with the memberships and made sure that all receipts were disbursed and provided financial statements, yearend financials and a budget for 2021. Due to funds available from previous years, our council was still able to provide donations to CWL and local organizations; plus to our church in the amount of $2480.88 and $450.00 gifts to clergy and staff.
Part of our donations involved Community Life chairman preparing 8 laundry bags full of gifts for the 2nd Chance participants for Christmas and a donation to the youth group for their annual retreat.
Our Sunshine Committee Trio was kept busy sending out wishes of encouragement to members that were sick, recovering from operations or suffered a loss. Our Funeral Committee was very busy during the first part of the year, which was obviously sad for the members involved, but this even got worse when we could not provide an honour guard and funeral luncheons.
Our other activity that didn’t stop during the pandemic involved our weekly participation in feeding the homeless three times a month on Wednesday evenings. With donations from the community, Knights of Columbia, Tim Horton and a large cash donation plus fish from Grieg Seafood made it possible to serve over 1600 hot and bag dinner for the unfortunate of our community.
Our Spiritual Advisor even though was fully involved with organizing the renovation plans for our church which is slated to start this spring provided opportunities for members to attend church throughout the week and then Sunday masses on You-tube once the churches were closed for services. Father Jan also provided the opportunity for all members to participate in the 33 Days to Morning Glory, A Do-It-Yourself Retreat in preparation for Marian consecration. Many CWL members participated in this retreat which I found very spiritual. The guide and workbook was provided by email to the members and printed books were available for the church.
In celebration of our 100th anniversary photos were found and delivered to National. A tree will be planted once the church renovations are completed.
2020 was a sad and lonely year for many and with God’s blessing this pandemic will soon be over and our league can get back to providing our normal activities and sharing our friendship with each other.
ST. PATRICK’S - VICTORIA - President: Lorrie Van Somer
2020 was a very different year for our council - like no other. A pandemic of Covid 19 was declared upon our country on March 12, 2020. This meant a drastic reduction in our ability to gather, fundraise for our charities and partake in anything that involved getting together. We made the best of it.
FAITH - We got creative to keep members alive in their faith during this time. We emailed the membership a lot about the mass times and sent out cards to sick members throughout the year. We asked the phoners to call members to pray for certain members' husbands and moms. All with good results. We notified the members by phone and email when the Lady of Good Counsel mass was on the Salt and Light channel on TV. Emails were sent regarding different members in the hospital and we asked members to offer up prayers throughout the year.
Notices were sent out early in the pandemic to remind members to watch Bishop Gary online at 7 pm from the cathedral .I distributed prayers from Diocesan for the Litany of Mary to end this pandemic in May 2020 via email. Birthday cards were sent monthly by 1 member with words of faith and encouragement. In our new monthly newsletter and Christmas card, I was able to send out laminated Blessed Mother cards for members to pray with. We also notified members that Fr William is online for masses every weekend. I have been emailing exec and general members regarding certain Holy feast days that they can say a rosary on that particular day. The pandemic is at its worst as I type this - averaging 700+ new cases a day. In December of 2020. A new vaccine has been released but it will be awhile before we get it.
Service -After the shock wore off in April and life had taken on a new normal, the executive and I discussed ways we could still be of service to our members and community. We decided to donate our budgeted money to the catholic soup kitchen out of St Andrews Cathedral. 1 Flower team lady continued with the parish flowers as she was allowed to do so when the parish doors opened with pre registered masses. Each day of the week had a CWL member on their ushering team. Two members sorted winter clothing and donated it to the community in Sept. We also partnered with the Gr 2 St Patrick’s class to donate hats, toques, socks, gloves and scarves from our donations, to the agencies for the less fortunate. In December, the Gr 2B class before Christmas break wrote letters and pictures of good cheer to a isolated senior in our parish, to protect privacy ,I addressed and mailed them to isolated members. Two members went a few times to Save On Foods to pick up items for us to sell at our bazaar usually held in the Fall. It was strange not to have the bazaar for the first time ever in it’s 50 year history. We keep this stock as it is all brand new and makes great baskets to raffle off during our bazaar. I sold pashminas to our members to support the 2022 National Convention, and will continue to do so in the monthly newsletter.
The diocesan president Christa Grillmair began monthly zoom meetings which I found very supportive and informative in nature. It gave me the strength to learn zoom and start our exec meetings monthly. In Dec we began our membership drive.
Social Justice- The government of Canada was busy this year trying to push laws through that we did not agree with. One member wrote to PM Trudeau how wrong it was to have such loose wording around who can qualify to take their own life. I keep watch and send out emails to members to let them know what the Federal Government was proposing in regards to topics of our concern. We encouraged them to write their MP, senate members and provided emails and Government address.
This year had its challenges. In challenging times there is always growth. I definitely spent more time phoning, emailing and mailing information out to the membership. We continue to be “the hands and feet of Christ “even though the pandemic has affected so much of our daily lives. We continue to pray for our priests and parish community and for an end to this pandemic.ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2020
ST. PETER’S - NANAIMO - President: Lori Ennis
2020 has been and continues to be a challenging year. Besides our usual parish and diocesan meetings we have accomplished the following:
We were involved in all aspects of liturgical ministries
Communication through Church Bulletin, Newsletter and phone calls to promote memberships
Information sent out to members on the World Day of the Sick Mass
Sent out on how to prepare for World Day of Prayer as St. Peter’s was the host Parish
No fundraisers due to Covid
Encouraged Members to write letters to members of parliament to support CWL resolutions and participating in various petitions
Bereavement Ministry where members meet with the loved ones of the deceased and helped them plan all aspects of the funeral
Prayer Shawl ministry
Awarding of annual bursary
Managing the Religious Article Booth
Producing 10 Newsletters that were emailed and mailed out to members
Supporting charities and other endeavours such as The West Coast Missions, Fr. Zucchi Schools in Haiti, Save a Family fund in India, Seminarian Fund
I have been blessed to be surrounded by wonderful ladies who give my tremendous support as president. I look forward to the rest of our journey together.
TRINITY CATHOLIC, NANAIMO - President: Huguette Fox
2020 was a challenge for our new Trinity Catholic Council as I am sure it was a challenge for each council. COVID-19 made it difficult to keep connected with our membership until someone came up with the great idea that we should hold outdoor meetings with social distancing. A wonderful way to reconnect with all the members and we had good attendance. We prayed the Rosary and heard each other’s story as to what life was like with COVID-19.
By June we heard about the ZOOM possibility and we set that up and the membership was excited to once again be together. We hold an executive meeting on the second Tuesday and a general meeting on the third Tuesday of every month. All our meetings start and end with a Prayer and a Reflection.
January membership was at 42. We held a successful Coupon Book sales fundraiser over Christmas, set up a phone committee, developed a permanent bulletin/poster space in the Church to keep the Congregation aware of our activities and we provided food and servers for a Knights of Columbus Award’s Night.
February saw a couple leadership changes as Huguette Fox took over as President and Sister Swedini Halliday resigned as Spiritual Advisor due to health concerns. Deacon Alan Cavin agreed to step into the position. A membership drive was planned for all three Masses on February 22nd and 23rd - 5 new members signed up. Six of our members took part in the World Day of Prayer on March 6th at Hope Lutheran Church on Departure Bay.
March 10 – held our Executive meeting and made plans for the coming month.
April – Churches were closed and all activity stopped and we waited for information/answers and a return to normal
May – ZOOM executive meeting - we tried to decide what our Council could do to keep our Council vibrant.
June – Outdoor gathering in the Church parking lot starting with the League Prayer and followed by the Rosary. Eighteen members attended and we spent an hour and a half chatting and connecting.
July and August – no meetings – Members took part in a Webinar – Summer Speaker Series put on by National. It was very well received and very enjoyable.
September 11th – We held an outdoor gathering in the Church parking lot – starting with the League Prayer followed with praying the Rosary. Prayer Partners were assigned.
October – ZOOM Meetings Our Council adjudicated a presentation by the Trinity Youth Program. We planted a Shrub commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the CWL.
November – ZOOM Meetings Even with COVID and the inability to meet in person, the Council continued doing good work for the Church and Community.
December – ZOOM Meetings - Coffee Can donation were collected – the members were very generous. We gave to St. Vincent de Paul, the Salvation Army and the homeless folks downtown.
Although 2020 saw many challenges and interruptions, Trinity Council continued to do its best to serve God, our Parish and our Community.