2008 Annual Report of The theme, Love One Another , was celebrated. It was evident from annual reports how well members have lived out the commandment. It amazes me all the good work being done by members in councils, communities, and parishes. These are the images of the League that should be seen. The spiritual life of members was evident throughout the reports. Prayer was the main focus: meetings began with prayer, the rosary was said before mass, prayers were offered for deceased members, and retreats were held where sister councils were invited. Other spiritual events members participated in included World Day of Prayer, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, way of the cross, a pro-life pilgrimage, and prayer lines. Many parish councils supported the Diocese of Antigonish Mass for Shut-Ins, which allowed for participation in mass during the week. Parish councils also provided both financial and prayerful support to members who attended the 49 th International Eucharistic Congress in Quebec City, Quebec. Membership continued to be a challenge and parish councils worked to change this. Personal invitation remained the most effective tool for recruiting. Some members went door-to-door to collect per capita fees. Members participated on membership Sunday by serving as Eucharistic ministers, lectors, ushers, and in the choir. Most parish councils had members speak about the League and why they joined. While membership declined overall, 14 parish councils did report an increase. Judy Lewis received life membership, which brings the total number of life members in the province to 14. The provincial council was blessed to have these women, who offered their wisdom and support, as they continued to enrich the League at all levels. Members were very involved in all aspects of parish life. They served on many parish committees such as property and finance, social action/refugee, environment, liturgical, catechetical, and on pastoral councils. Assistance was provided at receptions for first communion, confirmation, youth groups, and funerals. Members visited and sent cards and gifts to the sick, elderly, and those in need. The provincial fall conferences, hosted by St. Bonaventure Parish Council, Tracadie Cross, and St. Malachy Parish Council, Kinkora, were well attended. They provided members an opportunity to grow in holiness and fellowship. Sr. Gemma Dunn and Marion Murphy spoke on the theme, Love one Another. This year's guest speaker, Corrine Hendricken-Eldershaw, spoke on Alzheimer's disease and provided food for thought as she spoke on its signs, symptoms, and treatment as well as how to help caregivers. A workshop on euthanasia, assisted suicide, and quality end-of-life care was one everyone could identify with. The fall conferences generated a great deal of interest and open discussion and gave members an opportunity to renew friendships and make new ones. Deanery meetings continued to be a great opportunity to meet members. Evaluations reflected an appreciation for holding these meetings and sharing with members from other parishes. It was hoped that these workshops would continue to enrich councils and members would continue to learn from each other. The provincial council newsletter, sent twice a year, and communiqués, sent three times a year, assisted councils in keeping up with currents issues, and informed them of all the good things that happened in the League. |
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