Supplies	In the News... February 22, 2012 Death of Former National Spiritual Advisor, the Most Reverend J. Faber MacDonald, Bishop Emeritus of Saint John, New Brunswick The Most Rev. J. Faber MacDonald, Bishop Emeritus of Saint John , New Brunswick, died on Friday, February 17, 2012, in Charlottetown, at the age of 80. He is remembered for his faithful service to the League and the sharing of his musical gifts. (Read the full text of Death of the Most Reverend J. Faber MacDonald, Bishop Emeritus of Saint John, New Brunswick) Canonization of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Archbishop Richard Smith, President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops: It is with great joy that the Bishops of Canada welcome the 18 February 2012 announcement that our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, will canonize Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, elevating her to sainthood this coming October. This event will be a great honour to all of North America , but also in a particular way to its Aboriginal Peoples, of whom Kateri will be the first to receive this dignity. (Read the full text of the Statement by the President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops Welcoming the Canonization of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha) February 16, 2012 92nd Annual National Convention August 12-15, 2012 Edmonton, Alberta On-line registration is now available. Please have your credit card ready to complete your registration. February 15, 2012 Be League February 2012 Real love grows, endures and stregthens over time; things become a source of beauty. God who created us out of love, in turn calls us to love. Perhaps we can make a special effort during this month to express a little more love in our family, with friends and particularly with those who are seeing and deperately needing someone's love. A simple phone call, a note to a distant relative or reaching out to someone in need can make a difference. Let's get in touch with a sister in the League. (Read the entire issue of Be League February 2012) “We Simply Turned to the Women” 100 Years of the Catholic Women's League in Edmonton Media Release February 2012 The Catholic Women’s League (CWL) of the Archdiocese of Edmonton is marking 100 years of service to the City and its citizens with an exhibit hosted by the Provincial Archives of Alberta, opening June 11, 2012. (Read the entire text of the Media Release on the CWL Archives and History Display) February 14, 2012 Human Rights for the Unborn Members are encouraged to support the efforts of members of parliament who press for legislation to recognize the humanity of and offer protection to the unborn. Two such members are Brad Trost (Saskatchewan, Humboldt) and Stephen Woodworth (Kitchener). League members may visit their Web sites for further information. Stephen Woodworth has filed a motion in the House of Commons calling for the formation of a multi-party committee to examine the legal impact of denying full human rights to an unborn child. The motion will be debated in March and June followed by a vote. Members are encouraged to learn more about current legislation and follow progress of debates in the House of Commons. Legislation Communique No. 5 On everyone's mind this time of year – annual reports. A question always asked is how best to approach items that overlap with another standing committee. The main focus for the chairperson of legislation is to monitor and study government legislation at all levels.(Read the full text of Legislation Communique No. 5) Organization Communique No. 7 “…I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you…” (2 Tim 1.6) To “rekindle” means to stir into flame, to rustle the embers so they can catch fire again. This image has been with the National Ad Hoc Leadership Development Committee as it tried to develop a training package for future leaders in the League. All will be revealed about the new program, called Catch the Fire! at the annual national convention in Edmonton in August 2012. (Read the full text of Organization Communique No. 7) February 13, 2012 Catholic Organization for Life and Family Third Seminar on the Family March 22-23, 2012 The Catholic Organization for Life and Family (COLF) is hosting its 3rd Seminar on the Family March 22-23, 2012 at the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel, 150 Rue Albert Street, Ottawa. This seminar will be very beneficial and covers such topics as: Man and woman, spouses and parents: Forming Christian Citizens (and much more). Registration forms and agenda are available via e-mail from colf@colf.ca. Reservations for the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel are $129.00 per night. To guarantee this price, reservations must be made by February 22nd. Call toll free: 1-800-489-8333. Please mention COLF when calling. February 10, 2012 "Something to Celebrate" The Edmonton League's 100th Anniversary The women from the Catholic's Women's League are celebrating their 100th anniversary this Saturday by throwing a gala at the Edmonton Expo. (Read the full text of "Something to Celebrate", Edmonton Examiner, Friday February 10, 2012) Message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI World Day of the Sick February 11, 2012"Stand up and go;your faith has saved you” On the occasion of the World Day of the Sick, which we will celebrate on 11 February 2012, the Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes, I wish to renew my spiritual closeness to all sick people who are in places of care or are looked after in their families, expressing to each one of them the solicitude and the affection of the whole Church. In the generous and loving welcoming of every human life, above all of weak and sick life, a Christian expresses an important aspect of his or her Gospel witness, following the example of Christ, who bent down before the material and spiritual sufferings of man in order to heal them. (Read the full text of the Message for the World Day of the Sick.) The Catholic Health Alliance of Canada's stated mission is "Inspired by the Gospel and grounded in shared beliefs and values, the Alliance is a forum for Catholic health and social services Sponsors in Canada, to exchange ideas and develop shared strategic initiatives that support their ability to strengthen the healing ministry of Jesus." (Learn more about the Catholic Health Alliance of Canada.) International Symposium "Toward Healing and Renewal" February 6-9, 2012 Leaders of the Roman Catholic Church began a four-day international symposium on Monday at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome about the prevention of sexual abuse of minors by the clergy, described by the Vatican as a response to a painful issue that has wracked the Church and estranged many faithful. More than 100 bishops and 30 religious superiors, as well as Catholic university rectors and victims participated. Marc Cardinal Ouillet, prefect of the congregation of bishops, delivered a homily for the penitential vigil on February 7th (Read the full text of his Homily for the Penitential Vigil on the Occasion of the Symposium "Toward Healing and Renewal") February 9, 2012 Message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for the 46th World Communications Day Silence and Word: Path of Evangelization As we draw near to World Communications Day 2012, I would like to share with you some reflections concerning an aspect of the human process of communication which, despite its importance, is often overlooked and which, at the present time, it would seem especially necessary to recall. It concerns the relationship between silence and word: two aspects of communication which need to be kept in balance, to alternate and to be integrated with one another if authentic dialogue and deep closeness between people are to be achieved. When word and silence become mutually exclusive, communication breaks down, either because it gives rise to confusion or because, on the contrary, it creates an atmosphere of coldness; when they complement one another, however, communication acquires value and meaning. (Read the full text of the Message for the 46th World Communications Day.) February 8, 2012 Christian Family Life Communique No. 6 In this new year, I look forward to working together as part of a team for the betterment of those who do not have a voice of their own. My wish is that you all enjoy great health, happiness and love. Read the complete text of Christian Family Life Communique No. 6 February 7, 2012 World Day of Prayer March 2, 2012 Let Justice Prevail The World Day of Prayer is an international ecumenical movement of prayer and action. Each year, women from a different country write a service which reflects their justice concerns through a biblical lens. On the first Friday in March, Christians of all denominations in more than 2,000 communities across Canada and in more than 170 countries come together to pray and take action in solidarity with the people of that country. Materials are available for order by the end of October each year. To learn more, visit the Women's Inter-Church Council Web site. February 3, 2012 Legislation Communique No. 4 Greetings to legislation chairpersons. You have accepted the challenge of serving on an interesting committee. This communique reviews legislation of interest and relates it to active League resolutions. Complete text of Legislation Communique No. 4 Ceremonies Book 2012 A new edition of the Ceremonies Book is now available for free download from the Resource List, or for purchase at a cost of $4.20 from national office. The book includes prayer and memorial services, installation and reaffirmation ceremonies for CWL officers and spiritual advisore, a celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Good Counsel and more. View the Ceremonies Book. February 1, 2012 World Union of Catholic Women's Organizations Monthly Message for February 2012 A few days ago we celebrated the solemnity of the Conversion of Saint Paul which concludes the week of prayer for the unity of Christians. The Holy Father, during the closing liturgy has encouraged everybody to continue in this task with “determination, generosity and courage” and look at the future with hope patience and trust. He also stated we have to engage in this task for the unity of the Christians every day. The Council Vatican II exhorts all Catholic faithful to participate in the ecumenical work as well as in the interfaith dialogue. We don’t have to be passive or resigned but rather we need to look for any possible occasion of communion and brotherhood and pray for it with trust. Complete text of World Union of Catholic Women's Organizations Monthly Message for February 2012. Resolutions Communique No. 6 Meetings with the federal government were held November 28 – December 1, 2011 and were unique as the delegation met with government ministries as well as with both New Democratic Party and Liberal critics. The delegation was also able to coordinate a meeting with the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. A full report appears in the winter issue of The Canadian League. Complete text of Resolutions Communique No. 6. Laws Communique No. 4 It is the responsibility of past presidents to ensure that the past is preserved and the future assured. The League needs leaders to build on the past and lead us into the future. Individuals and organizations who are ready to take risks in the 21st century, not unlike by-gone days, face many challenges vying for the time, talent and treasure of women. Many organizations are experiencing declining membership. As the number of people attending churches declines it stands to reason that organizations whose membership comes from within the church will also decline. League leaders need to be women who are up to meeting the challenge not only of attracting new members but of offering programs that retain the existing membership. Complete text of Laws Communique No. 4 (Click here for archives.)	Resource Search By Standing Committee Spiritual Development Organization Christian Family Life Community Life Education and Health Communications Resolutions Legislation Laws International Relations Secretary-Treasurer Provincial Councils By Year Resolutions Key Word Seach : This free script provided by JavaScript Kit
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Supplies

In the News...

February 22, 2012

Death of Former National Spiritual Advisor, the Most Reverend J. Faber MacDonald, Bishop Emeritus of Saint John, New Brunswick

The Most Rev. J. Faber MacDonald, Bishop Emeritus of Saint John , New Brunswick, died on Friday, February 17, 2012, in Charlottetown, at the age of 80. He is remembered for his faithful service to the League and the sharing of his musical gifts. (Read the full text of Death of the Most Reverend J. Faber MacDonald, Bishop Emeritus of Saint John, New Brunswick)

Canonization of
Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha

Archbishop Richard Smith, President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops: It is with great joy that the Bishops of Canada welcome the 18 February 2012 announcement that our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, will canonize Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, elevating her to sainthood this coming October. This event will be a great honour to all of North America , but also in a particular way to its Aboriginal Peoples, of whom Kateri will be the first to receive this dignity. (Read the full text of the Statement by the President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops Welcoming the Canonization of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha)

February 16, 2012

92nd Annual National Convention
August 12-15, 2012
Edmonton, Alberta

On-line registration is now available. Please have your credit card ready to complete your registration.

February 15, 2012

Be League
February 2012

Real love grows, endures and stregthens over time; things become a source of beauty. God who created us out of love, in turn calls us to love. Perhaps we can make a special effort during this month to express a little more love in our family, with friends and particularly with those who are seeing and deperately needing someone's love. A simple phone call, a note to a distant relative or reaching out to someone in need can make a difference. Let's get in touch with a sister in the League. (Read the entire issue of Be League February 2012)

“We Simply Turned to the Women”
100 Years of the Catholic Women's League in Edmonton
Media Release
February 2012

The Catholic Women’s League (CWL) of the Archdiocese of Edmonton is marking 100 years of service to the City and its citizens with an exhibit hosted by the Provincial Archives of Alberta, opening June 11, 2012. (Read the entire text of the Media Release on the CWL Archives and History Display)

February 14, 2012

Human Rights for the Unborn

Members are encouraged to support the efforts of members of parliament who press for legislation to recognize the humanity of and offer protection to the unborn. Two such members are Brad Trost (Saskatchewan, Humboldt) and Stephen Woodworth (Kitchener). League members may visit their Web sites for further information.

Stephen Woodworth has filed a motion in the House of Commons calling for the formation of a multi-party committee to examine the legal impact of denying full human rights to an unborn child. The motion will be debated in March and June followed by a vote. Members are encouraged to learn more about current legislation and follow progress of debates in the House of Commons.

Legislation Communique No. 5

On everyone's mind this time of year – annual reports. A question always asked is how best to approach items that overlap with another standing committee. The main focus for the chairperson of legislation is to monitor and study government legislation at all levels.(Read the full text of Legislation Communique No. 5)

Organization Communique No. 7

“…I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you…” (2 Tim 1.6)

To “rekindle” means to stir into flame, to rustle the embers so they can catch fire again. This image has been with the National Ad Hoc Leadership Development Committee as it tried to develop a training package for future leaders in the League. All will be revealed about the new program, called Catch the Fire! at the annual national convention in Edmonton in August 2012. (Read the full text of Organization Communique No. 7)

February 13, 2012

Catholic Organization for Life
and Family
Third Seminar on the Family
March 22-23, 2012

The Catholic Organization for Life and Family (COLF) is hosting its 3rd Seminar on the Family March 22-23, 2012 at the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel, 150 Rue Albert Street, Ottawa. This seminar will be very beneficial and covers such topics as: Man and woman, spouses and parents: Forming Christian Citizens (and much more).

Registration forms and agenda are available via e-mail from colf@colf.ca. Reservations for the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel are $129.00 per night. To guarantee this price, reservations must be made by February 22nd. Call toll free: 1-800-489-8333. Please mention COLF when calling.

February 10, 2012

"Something to Celebrate"
The Edmonton League's 100th Anniversary

The women from the Catholic's Women's League are celebrating their 100th anniversary this Saturday by throwing a gala at the Edmonton Expo. (Read the full text of "Something to Celebrate", Edmonton Examiner, Friday February 10, 2012)

Message of His Holiness
Pope Benedict XVI
World Day of the Sick
February 11, 2012"Stand up and go;your faith has saved you”

On the occasion of the World Day of the Sick, which we will celebrate on 11 February 2012, the Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes, I wish to renew my spiritual closeness to all sick people who are in places of care or are looked after in their families, expressing to each one of them the solicitude and the affection of the whole Church. In the generous and loving welcoming of every human life, above all of weak and sick life, a Christian expresses an important aspect of his or her Gospel witness, following the example of Christ, who bent down before the material and spiritual sufferings of man in order to heal them. (Read the full text of the Message for the World Day of the Sick.)

The Catholic Health Alliance of Canada's stated mission is "Inspired by the Gospel and grounded in shared beliefs and values, the Alliance is a forum for Catholic health and social services Sponsors in Canada, to exchange ideas and develop shared strategic initiatives that support their ability to strengthen the healing ministry of Jesus." (Learn more about the Catholic Health Alliance of Canada.)

International Symposium
"Toward Healing and Renewal"
February 6-9, 2012

Leaders of the Roman Catholic Church began a four-day international symposium on Monday at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome about the prevention of sexual abuse of minors by the clergy, described by the Vatican as a response to a painful issue that has wracked the Church and estranged many faithful. More than 100 bishops and 30 religious superiors, as well as Catholic university rectors and victims participated.

Marc Cardinal Ouillet, prefect of the congregation of bishops, delivered a homily for the penitential vigil on February 7th (Read the full text of his Homily for the Penitential Vigil on the Occasion of the Symposium "Toward Healing and Renewal")

February 9, 2012

Message of His Holiness
Pope Benedict XVI
for the
46th World Communications Day

Silence and Word: Path of Evangelization

As we draw near to World Communications Day 2012, I would like to share with you some reflections concerning an aspect of the human process of communication which, despite its importance, is often overlooked and which, at the present time, it would seem especially necessary to recall. It concerns the relationship between silence and word: two aspects of communication which need to be kept in balance, to alternate and to be integrated with one another if authentic dialogue and deep closeness between people are to be achieved. When word and silence become mutually exclusive, communication breaks down, either because it gives rise to confusion or because, on the contrary, it creates an atmosphere of coldness; when they complement one another, however, communication acquires value and meaning. (Read the full text of the Message for the 46th World Communications Day.)

February 8, 2012

Christian Family Life
Communique No. 6

In this new year, I look forward to working together as part of a team for the betterment of those who do not have a voice of their own. My wish is that you all enjoy great health, happiness and love. Read the complete text of Christian Family Life Communique No. 6

February 7, 2012

World Day of Prayer March 2, 2012
Let Justice Prevail

The World Day of Prayer is an international ecumenical movement of prayer and action. Each year, women from a different country write a service which reflects their justice concerns through a biblical lens. On the first Friday in March, Christians of all denominations in more than 2,000 communities across Canada and in more than 170 countries come together to pray and take action in solidarity with the people of that country. Materials are available for order by the end of October each year. To learn more, visit the Women's Inter-Church Council Web site.

February 3, 2012

Legislation Communique No. 4

Greetings to legislation chairpersons. You have accepted the challenge of serving on an interesting committee. This communique reviews legislation of interest and relates it to active League resolutions. Complete text of Legislation Communique No. 4

Ceremonies Book 2012

A new edition of the Ceremonies Book is now available for free download from the Resource List, or for purchase at a cost of $4.20 from national office. The book includes prayer and memorial services, installation and reaffirmation ceremonies for CWL officers and spiritual advisore, a celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Good Counsel and more. View the Ceremonies Book.

February 1, 2012

World Union of Catholic Women's Organizations Monthly Message for February 2012

A few days ago we celebrated the solemnity of the Conversion of Saint Paul which concludes the week of prayer for the unity of Christians. The Holy Father, during the closing liturgy has encouraged everybody to continue in this task with “determination, generosity and courage” and look at the future with hope patience and trust. He also stated we have to engage in this task for the unity of the Christians every day. The Council Vatican II exhorts all Catholic faithful to participate in the ecumenical work as well as in the interfaith dialogue. We don’t have to be passive or resigned but rather we need to look for any possible occasion of communion and brotherhood and pray for it with trust. Complete text of World Union of Catholic Women's Organizations Monthly Message for February 2012.

Resolutions Communique No. 6

Meetings with the federal government were held November 28 – December 1, 2011 and were unique as the delegation met with government ministries as well as with both New Democratic Party and Liberal critics. The delegation was also able to coordinate a meeting with the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. A full report appears in the winter issue of The Canadian League. Complete text of Resolutions Communique No. 6.

Laws Communique No. 4

It is the responsibility of past presidents to ensure that the past is preserved and the future assured. The League needs leaders to build on the past and lead us into the future. Individuals and organizations who are ready to take risks in the 21st century, not unlike by-gone days, face many challenges vying for the time, talent and treasure of women. Many organizations are experiencing declining membership. As the number of people attending churches declines it stands to reason that organizations whose membership comes from within the church will also decline. League leaders need to be women who are up to meeting the challenge not only of attracting new members but of offering programs that retain the existing membership. Complete text of Laws Communique No. 4