REPORT OF NATIONAL CHAIRPERSON
OF SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT
JACKIE LENARDUZZI

Sub-Chairperson: Vivian Bosch

Another year reflecting much interest and activity regarding spirituality seems to be a major focus of most members and councils. Reports indicate many ongoing spiritual programs; devotions and active participation within the church structure are regular commitments. Also noticeable was a new spiritual endeavour centered on the spiritual bouquet compiled by members across Canada in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the pontificate of Pope John Paul II. The Year of the Rosary became a strong focal point, as did the increase in small Christian communities. Another highlight of the year was a changing role with Catholic Missions In Canada. Our partnership will focus on catechesis and donations can be channeled through a permanent national voluntary fund. A brief summary of specific involvement by members and councils follows.

Spiritual growth of members
•  eucharistic celebrations prior to meetings and on special occasions
•  spiritual time at council meetings
•  retreats, days of reflections, meditation, scripture study
•  devotion to Mary; praying the rosary
•  celebration of Marian feast days
•  Lenten and Advent prayers
•  prayer support for others, spiritual bouquets
•  small Christian communities; hours of adoration, personal prayer
•  lay formation programs, spiritual literature
•  pilgrimages, prayer chains

Study of Catholic teachings
•  bible study, personal and groups
•  involvement with Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) and catechetics
•  liturgical conferences
•  League spiritual resources
•  Catholic press and literature
•  videos, faith development programs lives of saints, Catechism of the Catholic Church
•  Advent and Lent reflections
•  papal documents
•  lay formation programs
•  Echoes of Faith video services, Alpha program

Role of women in the church
•  members continue to be active within their parishes and communities
•  parish ministries and committees
•  catechesis, sacramental preparation, RCIA
•  pastoral councils
•  support for the bereaved, funeral receptions
•  hospice and palliative care
•  leading parish devotions
•  care homes, homeless, and women's shelters

Evangelization and mission assistance
•  leadership roles in sharing faith with others
•  financial contributions to Catholic Missions In Canada
•  prayer buddies to confirmation candidates
•  catechesis and sacramental preparation
•  visits to care homes, shelters, shut-ins
•  assistance to Canadian and foreign missions
•  food banks, Operation Christmas Child
•  assistance to the bereaved
•  adoption of foster children and families

Lay ministries
•  variety of parish liturgical ministries
•  pastoral associates
•  spiritual outreach to community
•  education and social service ministries
•  community assistance

Ecumenism and interfaith endeavours
•  World Day of Prayer
•  Week of Prayer for Christian Unity participation
•  ecumenical prayer groups and social functions
•  peace vigil at Canadian Forces bases
•  services at care homes
•  Alpha program
•  community and interfaith activities
•  food banks