2008 Annual Report of The year began with Life Member Shirley MacDougall as Nova Scotia provincial council president and ended with Marian Hepditch-Littlepage as president. The provincial executive held three meetings, one workshop and the annual provincial convention. Over 5,000 members belonged to the League in Nova Scotia. The membership was retained despite parish closures, council amalgamations and members' deaths. With the help of the National Development Fund, the provincial council invested in members' education by hosting a development workshop where every member in the province was invited; around 300 members attended. The League in Nova Scotia fared well, even though it experienced challenges that many similar organizations face. Older members, who have served for many years, couldn't continue to be active, executive positions remained vacant, and many young women were not drawn in to the League but were willing to help in many ways without making a long-term commitment. Reports received indicate that the League is a great, vibrant, faith-filled organization. The three diocesan presidents agreed the reports sent to them were truly awe-inspiring. Presidents reported attending special events, workshops, conferences, conventions, spiritual days and visiting councils. Members gave so generously of themselves by organizing functions, catering, serving and fundraising. Most important was the element of spirituality that distinguishes Catholic women. All over the province, members were recognized on an individual basis when presented with pins and certificates for their work in the League and their community. The wonderful spiritual advisors directed retreats and days of reflections, and celebrated special masses for members. Halifax Diocesan Council awarded 16 Marguerite Burns bursaries, each valued at $225.00. Parish councils donated money and held raffles to raise money for these bursaries. |
