2007 Annual Report of This year was very busy for members of Manitoba Provincial Council. They prayed together and for one another, worked for the poor, attended meetings, workshops, conventions and conferences, petitioned government and made lasting friendships. They shared their love for one another. Many members attended conventions at diocesan, provincial and national levels. All three diocesan presidents participated in the annual national convention held in Montreal along with 50 other members, some of whom were chairpersons of the upcoming 2008 annual national convention committee. It was at these conventions that members experienced one another in a new light. They became women of faith striving to bring the light of God to all they encounter. Increasing membership has been a focus for several years. The membership statistics for 2007 showed an increase of 108 new members; 56 re-instated; 95 who didn't renew and 34 deceased for a total of 2,837 members. Members were urged to keep asking their friends and the women in their parishes to join. The women may have said ?no? once, however, situations change and they may now be ready to say ?yes.? Manitoba provincial and diocesan councils were happy to welcome and present life memberships to three members ? Dolores Blanchard, Terri Scott and Susan Bernier. These outstanding members were recognized at the provincial convention for their dedication and willingness to serve at all levels. They have mentored many. Their styles of mentoring are vastly different, but the results have been the same; they have passed on a life long love and respect for history, traditions and membership. St. Boniface Diocesan Council President Colleen Holloway felt blessed to have had the opportunity to represent and serve her diocesan council. In her report, she acknowledged the parish presidents for sharing their yearly highlights and thanked them for helping each other, and serving each other beyond parish communities. ?They have reached out to help the poor, the needy and the lonely in so many ways; fulfilling the commandment to love your neighbour as thyself.? Keewatin -The Pas Diocesan Council President Ella Nogier was blessed to have the support of five parish councils, none closer than two hours apart. In the St. Maria Goretti Parish Council, Lynn Lake, there were a mere seven members whose involvement in their community seemed endless. They were involved in lay, Eucharistic and music ministries, visited the elderly and sick, assisted the Friendship Centre, home fire victims and more. St. Lawrence Parish Council, Thompson, although small with only seven active members, supported the Ribbon of Signatures Campaign, Coady International Institute, the Canadian Cancer Society and the women of Zimbabwe. Main fundraising for Our Lady of the Snows Parish Council, Snow Lake, went toward the spiritual development of its members. Delivery of hot cross buns at Easter to shut-ins, the sick and grieving was how six of its members supported their community. St. Ann Parish Council, Flin Flon, was the largest parish council with 35 active members. One focus was prayer, leading the Living Rosaries and candle ceremonies in the graveyard. Monetary support went to a pregnancy centre in the community. At all regular meetings in Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish Council, The Pas, a five minute educational presentation about the League was held. This council had amazing participation at its meetings with 35 members attending. It was with humility that Winnipeg Archdiocesan Council President Albertine Moran read her councils' reports. With enthusiasm and determination, each parish council achieved its goals and members smiled and enjoyed themselves as they continued to show compassion, understanding and patience. ?They have reached out to help those in need, at home and abroad. With wide open hearts you have touched one another with love.? 2008 National Convention Committee Chairperson Janet Brunger, together with her co-chairpersons Dolores Blanchard, Suzanne Moore and Dr. Rayleen De Luca, continued to plan the 2008 annual national convention to ensure that everyone, not only visitors to the province, would enjoy a wonderful experience. In her report, she thanked all members for welcoming committee members as they visited every council in Manitoba, congratulated them for their support and their generosity toward the fundraisers and volunteering of their time.
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