84th Annual National Convention
London, Ontario
August 8 - 11, 2004

Report of Convention by Susan Bernier
Report of National President Marie Cameron
Report of National Spiritual Advisor Most. Rev. Richard Smith
Report of National Secretary-Treasurer Shirley Bernier
Report of Executive Director Kim Scammell
Report of National Spiritual Development Chairperson Jackie Lenarduzzi
Report of National Organization Chairperson Agnes Bedard
Report of National Christian Family Life Chairperson Pat Crossman
Report of National Community Life Chairperson Velma Harasen
Report of National Education and Health Chairperson Ann Doucet
Report of National Communications Chairperson Danielle McNeil-Hessian
Report of National Resolutions Chairperson Lorette Noble
Report of National Legislation Chairperson Lucille Partington
Report of National Laws Chairperson Vivian Bosch
Report of World Uniuon of Catholic Women's Organizations Honorary Life Member Claire Heron

 

 

Report of National President Marie Cameron

League members are “rooted in gospel values,” which means they are connected with God and each other. When I hear the biblical story of Martha and Mary, I think of members. Each member reflects a bit of Martha and a bit of Mary. The Martha part is the social mission of the church with all the practical tasks accomplished in councils and by members during the year. As you read reports from the national executive, you will be as astounded as I am at the many accomplishments of League members over the past year. The Marys, on the other hand, focus on prayer and quiet spirituality, trusting in the Lord. Both personalities are necessary in members and councils. Members listened, prayed, discerned and then acted.

Standing committee members worked together carrying out the social teachings of the church. It has been said that these social teachings are the best kept secret of the Catholic church. The challenge to members is to study current and past encyclicals and apostolic letters in order to discern a practical way to implement the recommendations in these social teachings.

It is apparent that for most members, activity is of service not of position. Members quietly serve in their parishes, communities and with various other volunteer organizations without public acclaim. We are not a controversial organization looking for press coverage with every pronouncement made. But, members are leaders deeply rooted in the word of God, knowing they are called to be witnesses for Christ.

Leaders have a vision of what is to be done and then communicate this vision to others. They coordinate activities together in friendship. They help to develop talents and abilities of other members. They encourage others to open themselves up to God through prayer and discernment. They help and inspire others to become leaders. And they foster new direction which may lead to change.

It takes courage today to be a consistent, dedicated Christian. All members of our current national executive have been exemplary leaders during my term and I comment them for their hard work and diligence in carrying out the objects of the League. Each willingly shared her talents and capabilities to the extent she was able – some developed the positions far more than was foreseen when the position was first accepted. The League was grown in spirituality and social action through the numerous communiqués, workshops and information given by national executive members. Tomorrow you will hear just a short summary of their goals, objectives and challenges. The League and I have been so fortunate to be blessed with these dedicated women on the current national executive.

Other members have also been serving the League in various capacities and I thank them for sharing their talents with us. Life members have attended many forums, seminars, workshops, institutes and annual meetings on behalf of the League. Their reports give us incentive to continue working with other associations and groups to make this a more peaceful, caring world.

Some days during this past year, I have found it difficult to pen my e-mail messages, as rarely a week passed that I didn't get a message of another member suffering form cancer. In a note to me, most Rev. Douglas Crosby, OMI, Bishop of St. George's and Labrador City-Schefferville, called it an epidemic and there were times I felt it was indeed an epidemic, especially for our League members. At this convention, we are missing some very special people. National Spiritual Development Chairperson Jackie Lenarduzzi, as I told you earlier, is recuperating from her cancer operation, chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Pat Beattie resigned due to ill health. Then there are the deaths of our Honorary Life Member Sheilah Pellerin and Kingston Diocesan President Bernadette Kelly, to name just a few of the many who have graduated up to their heavenly home and we hope are praying for us as we pray for them.

We were also saddened at the resignation of our National Spiritual Advisor, Bishop Crosby, when his workload was increased from one to two dioceses. The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops appointed Most Rev. Richard Smith, Bishop of Pembroke, as his replacement. The League continues to be blessed with these dedicated spiritual bishops who are willing to spend so much time with use at our meetings. This spring, Bishop Smith gave a few speeches and workshops at two provincial conventions, so he has already been initiated before his official installation at our closing mass.

Concerns addressed through resolutions were taken to the federal government in an abbreviated form this year due to the leadership campaign and the election. We had three meetings in one day with the health, justice and deputy prime minister's departments, prior to attending the annual Catholic Organization for Life and Family's Sixth Annual Seminar on biotechnology that focused on end-of-life issues. The report of these meetings was published in The Canadian League. Many letters were written to every cabinet minister, member of parliament, and senator about a number of issues relating to both past and present resolutions.

One of my ob jectives as president was to encourage and develop a deeper, more meaningful, spiritual relationship with God. When I met with members across the country and read personal letters and reports, it was reported that the spiritual life of members has grown. Some members have been stretched as they cast out into the deep to develop their own spiritual lives. Small Christian communities are spreading in every province and territory, as is the practice of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, more frequent attendance at daily mass and praying the Liturgy of the Hours. Members had the courage to stretch themselves beyond their scope of vision, opening their eyes, minds and hearts to the gospel message and carrying that message to communities.

It has been my experience that the more deeply committed to and knowledgeable we become about our faith, the more we become involved in social justice. Members have been assisting and supporting Catholic Missions In Canada, Coady International Institute, Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace, MaterCare International and various pro-life organizations, just to name a few. Your financial support and volunteer hours is overwhelming.

Last Wednesday, I had the privilege of meeting our most “senior” council at Marian Villa here in London. It is a council of elderly women whose main focus is to meet together in their facility and pray for members and others who ask for their prayers. Their prayers encourage active members to continue with volunteer work and give consolation to members who are sick. I wonder if some of the non-renewing members reported by councils are senior women who have left their homes and are now living in a retirement centre or nursing home. Parish councils are challenged to invite these seniors to continue their membership and to encourage them to be the special prayer group of their councils.

A few more councils report they have initiated a “junior League” for girls from the ages of 12–16. This concept was tentatively discussed at the presidents' luncheon today. I am sure you will be hearing more about such groups in future.

The League mission statement reminds us who we are and how we are to live. We are then told to go forth and evangelize by doing God's work. One convention sub-theme asked members to “become the hands and feet of Christ.” When Christ asks us to cast out into the deep, He is asking us to do something we have never done before, reaching out to help and work in solidarity with others. By casting out we try to transform ourselves, and one result of this transformation gives each and every one of us an ability to play a small part in changing the world.

Pope John Paul II has stated that collaboration of the laity is becoming more and more indispensable, as he calls it a “new unprecedented opportunity that God is offering us.”

During the past two years as president of this national organization, I have tried to collaborate with members, councils, executives and other organizations. I want to assure President-elect Agnes Bedard that she will have my support and encouragement in the next two years. League history is being made as my successor, Agnes, and I live in the same city. It has been a privilege to be your servant and leader and I thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve the League in this capacity.

Report of National Secretary-Treasurer Shirley Bernier

In the spring parish council mailing, copies of the new Handbook for Secretaries and revised Guidelines for Treasurers were distributed. Additional copies are available for $2 each from national office or can be downloaded in pdf format from the national website.

At the pre-convention meeting, the national executive reviewed the audited financial statements for 2003 as prepared by Chambers, Fraser & Co. Copies of the 2003 annual report are available from national office for $4.25.

Balance Sheet
The cash level had dropped as less cash was being held by the equity asset managers than last year. Accounts receivable was consistent with last year. Inventory increased due to the restocking of membership cards, pendants and spiritual advisors' stoles. Investments total $1,576,007 in short and long-term vehicles, $189,508 of that was money held in trust for League funds and $413,725 in equity investments.

Revenue
•  Per capita fees of $824,098 showed that membership experienced the smallest decline since 1987 (37 members).
•  At $50,010, the decrease in investment income reflects lower interest rates. Approximately 75% of the investments were in interest bearing bonds.
•  Gross margin on sales of $37,701 declined as the demand for the CWL scarf and Leading the League leveled off. The target margin was 35% to allow for postage, shipping and obsolescence.

Expenditure
• Convention expenses of $57,733 included the contest winners, transportation for honorary life members, national executive, guests and resource persons, resolutions committee members, staff and supplies.
•  International relations of $10,769 included attendance of three national officers, the executive director, and the World Union of Catholic Women's Organizations (WUCWO) board member to the WUCWO North American Regional Conference held in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
•  League development of $58,754 included $12,800 awarded in bursaries, 15 councils using the development fund, promotion of the cast out into the deep bookmark and the Mentoring brochure, mailing of the national president's Christmas message, and a provincial grant given to Saskatchewan.
•  Magazine costs of $214,115 included the use of a graphics company for the layout of the fall magazine and an increase in postal rates of about 3¢ per copy.
•  National executive costs of $64,430 included sending representatives to nine conferences.
•  Office building costs of $66,535 remain the same from year to year.
• Office equipment costs of $28,150 included long-term leases and maintenance for a new copier/fax/scanner.
•  Operating costs of $60,425 included general and directors' liability insurance, an increased volume of house printing, a 16% postage increase due to several mass mailings sent to members of parliament, senators and all bishops in Canada, legal and audit fees, and a 2% increase in telecommunications.
•  Staff costs of $241,860 included an 8.5% increase in employee benefits premiums and an increased League contribution to the employees' retirement plan. All statutory deductions have been remitted.

Once again, per capita fees have covered the operating expenses.

This year parish councils were asked to complete the National Voluntary Fund Remittance Form and send this, along with their donations to the national voluntary funds, directly to national office with a copy to their diocesan treasurer. This worked relatively well except when councils added voluntary funds that were collected only at their diocesan or provincial level. I would ask that the cheque forwarded to national office include only those funds listed on the form.

As more and more parish councils report donations to deserving organizations, we see the generosity of members throughout Canada. By listing these donations under standing committees, councils actually get a precise view of where the money they have raised has gone. In 2003, the total was over three million dollars. This is a great monetary contribution to society and, together with our active volunteerism, makes us proud to belong to the League.

In closing, this year we would like to publicly acknowledge and thank the estate of Life Member Marie Louise Cloutier from Ontario, for her remembrance of the League in her will. The $5,000 received will be added to the National Bursary Fund.

Report of National Spiritual Development Chairperson Jackie Lenarduzzi

Another year has passed since the last annual national convention. Much has been accomplished and more lies ahead as we work “For God and Canada.” The annual reports reflect considerable activity and cover all aspects of this standing committee. This cannot help but translate into spiritual growth for League members. Keep up the good work.

A proposed resolution for the 2003 convention regarding a stronger Christian focus before and during the Christmas season was directed to this standing committee for action. Material prepared and distributed to all councils seemed to be appreciated and used. I would urge all spiritual development chairpersons to continue promoting a truly Christian Christmas season.

Last year a new phase in our partnership with Catholic Missions In Canada (CMIC) began, and a new brochure reflected this change. Parish council donations intended for CMIC, and channeled through our permanent national voluntary fund, are designated for catechesis. Thank you for donating the sum of $25,070.75 last year. Please continue your monetary support and especially your prayers for missions in Canada.

I would like to acknowledge the spiritual articles in recent issues of The Canadian League and urge all members to read and reflect on these messages. Regarding the evangelization articles, I urge all members to be aware of the importance of responding to the call by taking a leading role in action and witness.

The past year has also been one of increased growth in small Christian communities. The Year of the Rosary, Liturgy of the Hours and ecumenical efforts were also evident. Please continue participation in these and all prayer opportunities.

On the Feast of Corpus Christi, Pope John Paul II announced a special “Year of the Eucharist,” to be observed from October 2004 to October 2005. The year will begin with the Eucharistic Congress in Mexico and will end with the Synod of Bishops on the Eucharist in Rome. This would be a time to study and reflect on last year's papal encyclical, Ecclesia de Eucharistia. The Holy Father stated that a better understanding of Christ's presence in the Eucharist will lead to a better prayer life, which in turn will favour evangelization. I challenge all members and councils to respond to his invitation as, in his words, “…the Eucharist stands at the center of the church's life.”

In closing, I extend my prayerful thanks for the opportunity of serving the League in this ministry. It has been a graced blessing for me. I am grateful that God and others allowed me to continue my work this past year, even if in a limited way. Special thanks to so many for stepping in and helping with the duties of this standing committee.

My journey towards healing has been an ongoing spiritual and medical one. The prayer support from members emphasized the League's special nature, and the care and concern we have for each other in times of need. Your prayers allowed me to be peaceful and positive in my journey towards healing, and contributed immensely to my spiritual growth. I am sorry I am unable to be present personally to offer my gratitude and prayerful thanks.

Report of National Organization Chairperson Agnes Bedard

It is wonderful to be alive and to be here today in this beautiful city in the diocese of London, with 109 parish councils and 13,782 members. London has the largest League membership of any diocese in Canada. It is wonderful to be in the presence of all of you – 700 happy, hugging, joy-filled, encouraging, toe-tapping members. My sisters, who love God and the League, in the presence of our spiritual advisors, who love God and the League, and in the presence of God and His blessed mother, both of whom love the League.

My sisters, as organization chairperson I receive your provincial annual reports and I acknowledge and celebrate your work; these reports are extraordinary. I received 42 pages that speak of who we are, what we are doing, our membership strategies, planned workshops and resources used. The Lord is smiling, and this year you will find the 2003 Annual Report in your convention booklets.

The following members are the winners of this year's trip to convention: Mary O'Laughlin of Timberlea, Nova Scotia, and Jeanne Huibers and Patricia Young of Thompson, Manitoba.

The National Development Fund was used by all provinces for programs – from a workshop on membership in Williams Lake, B.C., to a retreat in Trapper's Lake, N.W.T., to a leadership day in Sydney, N.S. – and it also covered National Past President Vivian Bosch's tour of the eastern provinces. Funds are available, so please identify the need in your diocese or region, plan the program, select your animators, calculate your costs and apply for funding. No reasonable request is denied.

This year we added the revised National Manual of Policy and Procedure to available resource materials. If you can identify a need for a workshop with a specific focus, and there is not one readily available, let us know and we will do our best to produce one.

The January 1st membership deadline has councils beginning membership collection in November and December, before Christmas shopping begins. I am sure national office would love all membership forms to be in by January 31st.

We are getting good at attracting new members. Most councils have developed their own successful strategies including the mailing of personal letters to all women in the parish, being very visible during membership Sunday/week, and using the community media to advertise. As we greet new members and they purchase memberships, let us remember that these memberships are contracts. We welcome them to the journey and then we validate them; we challenge them in their faith lives; we encourage them to develop and share their giftedness; and we celebrate who they are.

In 2003, we had 101,635 active members in the League – only 37 less than in 2002. We lose about 1,500 members to Jesus and heaven every year. Can you imagine the gathering of deceased League members in the communion of saints? For the first time in 2003, 5,506 women joined the League – they are your sisters – seek them out, love them, encourage them, value them. Last year 8,422 chose not to renew their memberships – they are your sisters, seek them out, love them, encourage them, value them, invite them back.

No members would end up in the “non-renewed column” of our membership lists if they felt welcomed and valued by their councils, if they were being educated and stimulated, if they were given ample opportunity to develop and use their God given talents, and if they found love and acceptance in the holy space that is the League. The League should be a safe space, a holy place.

I had opportunity these past two years to travel and talk in Dawson Creek, B.C., Edmonton, Alta., Winnipeg, Man., Saskatoon, Sask., Williams Lake, B.C., Yellowknife, N.W.T., and Calgary, Alta. I was welcomed, well fed and given opportunity to facilitate workshops, spreading the good news that is the League.

The League is a treasure which began in Edmonton, Alberta in 1912 and became a national organization, the dream of Madame Bellelle Guerin, in 1920. The Mission Statement, adopted at the 70th annual national convention in Sudbury, Ontario, gives clear focus to all we do as women rooted in gospel values, called to holiness through service to the people of God.

Thank you for loving each other, for being present for each other. God bless you all.

Report of National Christian Family Life Chairperson Pat Crossman

The International Year of the Family celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2004. In celebration of this milestone, I have been working toward the compilation of family stories from every province across Canada. This turns out to be a work in progress. I look forward to the time when each council can share these stories and reflect on the powerful testimony of their sisters. The stories which have already been forwarded are inspirational and challenging. I would like to share a little taste of the message that these families have presented.

“‘Marriage is based on self sacrifice. Only love can make it easy, and perfect love can make it joy.' Those words spoken to us on our wedding day stayed with us and we learned over the years that the greatest gift we could give our children was to love each other very, very much. It is the bond that holds the family together. It is important that the children know that their parents love each other very much, which gives them the security that no amount of material gifts can equal.”

“I believe it is incredibly important in today's world to be firm in your belief, not to cave in to societal ways and norms. It is too easy to do the work of the devil…. The youth of today need role models, especially their parents, who will provide them with a guide to live their lives in the spirit of holiness. The most important job we have as parents, I believe, is to bring our children to heaven. The graces given to us in the Sacrament of Marriage give us the strength to do this.”

“We, as parents, encourage our children to become active members of society explaining that to make change happen or keep something good going, you must be part of the process. It is for this reason that my husband and I sit on school committees, fund-raising committees, farm organizations and are active participants in our church. Society is what we make it and our family commits itself to try and be witness of our faith within our community acknowledging our weaknesses and working with others to promote our Christian values.”

Your new Christian family life chairperson will anticipate receiving the few remaining stories so that members can use the materials in councils and parishes.

Remember to celebrate National Family Week during October 4 to 10, 2004 in cooperation with Family Service Canada's national plan.

It is imperative that the League, and its members, continue to declare its firm and strong belief in the definition of marriage as “…the union of one man and one woman to the exclusion of all others.” In 2003, at the 83rd annual national convention, a Position Paper on The Definition of Marriage was ratified. It recommended that a letter be sent reaffirming the League's firm and unequivocal position. Parliament will vote on the definition of marriage in 2005 and voices must be heard. Please send your letters.

Marriage Matters, the booklet prepared by the Catholic Organization for Life and Family (COLF) has been a huge success. Parishes, parish councils, and families have found it to be an invaluable asset in discussions and/or debates. COLF will have another document for distribution in the fall. The title is The Christian Family: Good News for the World.

The Third Continental Congress on Vocations to Ordained Ministry and Consecrated Life in North America 2002 initiated the development of a plan. Conversion Discernment Mission: Fostering a Vocation Culture in North America evolved from the seed planted in discussion, prayer and serious consideration of the future of North American vocations. This plan calls for the establishment of a culture of vocations where everyone is called to serve their own particular vocation in the Kingdom of God, whether that is as a consecrated person or as a single person. Vocation committees are made up of priests, religious, married and/or single persons who come together to discern their plan using the materials prepared by the Congress, to develop a whole culture of vocation, and also to promote a sense of vocation on the part of married and single persons. We are called to live in this society, to be an integral, vibrant component of the vocations culture. This Christian family life commitment is varied and extensive and I encourage all members to assume the role of vocations culture through their continued involvement and participation in their Christian lives.

I recommend that $9,880 raised in the pro-life voluntary funds be equally distributed to Catholic Health Association of Canada and the Catholic Organization for Life and Family. I also recommend that a letter be sent from this convention to The Hon. Paul Martin, Prime Minister of Canada, and members of parliament reaffirming the position of the League on the definition of marriage.

Report of National Community Life Chairperson Velma Harasen

Whether we volunteer in church-related liturgical functions or in service to the poor and vulnerable, it's an exercise in community building. Community life issues continue to be at the forefront in League work. We've taken an active role against sweatshops resulting in a number of success stories; we've collaborated with Church Council on Justice and Corrections (CCJC) promoting Circles of Support and Accountability, a network for released offenders; we've become involved with the federal government's three-year study on nuclear waste management; we're earnestly exploring a collaborative role with the Women's Inter-Church Council of Canada (WICC) to assist our faith communities and League members to end violence against women. WICC's excellent resource manual, Healing Waters, was introduced at our committee luncheon on Monday.

My article, “Women and Abuse – A Christian Response,” published in The Canadian League, brought positive comments. One in particular I want to share, with her permission, is from Karen who lives in Ontario. She wrote me a very moving letter about her life in an abusive relationship for over 10 years. She told me how the League helped her and her two children move from the violent scene. “CWL members and pastoral staff have provided us with everything from furniture to Easter eggs. They have done babysitting free of charge. The have donated bags of groceries, money out of their pockets, and call regularly to checkup on us. Most of all, I feel their prayers of support.” She ends her letter saying, “They have been the wind beneath my wings – helping me and my children along the way down this otherwise very rough road, and smoothing the bumps along the way. They have been a living inspiration to our faith, and give us hope.” In her latest e-mail she wrote, “I have won sole custody of the children, their father's supervised visits are not to be lifted for a few years and he must undergo counseling. Thank you for your prayers… your CWL sister!” Prayer cards are available free of charge from national office. Please use them and reach out to the women around us!

We continue our partnership with Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CCODP) and encourage the promotion of our 1% Program. Contributions during the past year totaled $94,717.17, which more than doubled the previous year's total. Congratulations! CCODP's three year campaign, Thirsting for Justice , is most worthy of our support and to date, over 192,000 people have signed the water declaration stating that, “…fresh water is a shared legacy, a public trust and a collective responsibility.” It is appropriate that we should approve our Position Paper on Water at this convention.

The League has nominated CCODP for the 2004–2005 King Baudouin International Development Prize, awarded to an organization for sustainable achievements in improving the lives of people in the developing world. The winner will be announced in December.

Minister of Immigration Judy Sgro's recent statement that churches should cease offering sanctuary to refugee claimants has created much concern among Canada's church leaders. A press conference was held on August 4th at the Church of the Holy Trinity in Toronto where Canada's church leaders responded to Minister Sgro's public criticism and spoke strongly to the failures contained in Canada's refugee determination process and called on the federal government to cease portraying refugees as security threats. The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops' representative, as well as Mary Jo Leddy of Romero House, participated.

KAIROS Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives launched a letter-writing campaign urging individuals and groups to write to the minister – watch their website. Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, CTV Television Network and The Globe and Mail websites have cover stories on this issue. The League has a history of compassion for refugees. I urge you to get involved.

The Law Commission of Canada, mandated to review the laws of Canada to determine whether they continue to meet the needs of society, has introduced a discussion paper entitled, What is a Crime? – Challenges and Alternatives. It asks questions about the context in which different prevention and deterrence strategies are used in Canadian society. It explores some of the values that we should foster in the process of determining what constitutes unwanted conduct. It searches for ways to deal with such behaviour. CCJC focused on this document at the annual general meeting and Life Member Mary Hass, who attended, has recommended it as a study guide.

A thought while we're still casting out into the deep: I wonder if many of us are stuck in a rut of charity and need to get out of it and onto the road toward justice. If we are to be true healers of our communities, we need to become vital and prepared to risk in our ministries as spirit-filled Christians who understand the political or community dimensions of the gospels. Creating food banks, providing temporary shelter for homeless people, or sending Christmas presents for children in developing countries, all wonderful programs, will not transform the world into a place of justice. We need to find out why people are hungry and homeless and mobilize to do something about it. Are we willing to risk going into those deeper waters? What is it about the way we organize ourselves as a Christian community or a League council that leaves some marginalized? What can we do to change that?

It has been a most rewarding two years serving as your national community life chairperson. My heartfelt thanks to all community life chairpersons across the country, at all League levels, for responding to the needs, getting involved and doing great things for the Kingdom of God!

Report of National Education and Health Chairperson Ann Doucet

Issues related to the education and health standing committee are among the most frequently cited in newspapers, television and radio newscasts. Members across Canada strive to address these important issues.

Health issues are at the top of the agenda and the upcoming September conference on health care between the prime minister and the provincial and territorial premiers will be observed closely by members. Members are healthier this year as annual reports show increased participation as a result of the healthy lifestyle challenge issued a year ago.

The League's Discussion Paper on Assessment and Treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder will be a valuable tool in understanding the methods of diagnosis and treatment of this common childhood behavioural disorder.

There is a need for the Catholic community to step forward and support the Catholic health care ministry. Various congregations of sisters and priests are disappearing from the classrooms, from hospitals and nursing homes. Who will carry on the Catholic tradition, culture and legacy? League members can join others in their communities to actively become advocates for the Catholic health care ministry.

Members have questioned the morality of donating to the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Alliance because of the possibility of embryonic stem cell research now permitted under Bill C–6 An Act respecting assisted human reproduction and related research. Lawrence Greenaway, President of the Breast Cancer Society of Canada stated, “A donor who wishes to specify that their funding not be used on research involving use of human embryonic stem cells is free to do so, and this wish will be honoured.” The final donation for the Breast Cancer Research Challenge Fund for amounts received to December 31, 2003, totalled $8,659.70.

Exciting news from MaterCare International! The building of the birth trauma centre in Ghana is now underway. League donations to MaterCare International have more than doubled this past year for a total of $37,603.56.

Catholic education is always an important issue. The Religious Education in Canada document will allow members to be better informed on the quality of Catholic education in their parishes and communities, as well as across Canada. The summer 2004 issue of the Catholic Missions In Canada magazine featured articles that focus on religious education for children and youth in mission communities. Parish councils are encouraged to continue their generous support of mission partners.

In 2004, national bursary awards totalling $14,175 were distributed to 54 recipients. Cards and letters of appreciation indicated that members used their development to enhance ministries in their parish communities.

The continued trust and financial support of members enables Coady International Institute, in conjunction with international organizations in developing countries, to facilitate and mobilize positive social and economic change. League donations to the Coady International Institute more than doubled this past year for a total of $33,399.18.

Report of National Communications Chairperson Danielle McNeil-Hessian

I would like to say a special thank you to all of the communications standing committee chairpersons at the parish, diocesan and provincial levels who are Singing the Leagues Praises through the use of newsletters. I encourage them to keep up the good work, as newsletters are an excellent way to keep the members informed and to celebrate the League's work.

The main focus of this committee at the national level has been:
•  enhancing and seeking input to improve The Canadian League
•  improving the national website
•  establishing a national communications strategy
• promoting the White Ribbon Against Pornography (W.R.A.P.) campaign to change the age of consent from 14 to 18
•  creating Internet and e-mail awareness
•  pursuing the elimination of pornography; in particular child pornography

All of the goals are on-going and the projects are works-in-progress.

Thank you to all of you who completed the survey on The Canadian League. One identified area for improvement was reception of the fall issue in a timely manner in order that all members have early access to the resolutions and action plans. You will be pleased to learn that in order to address this concern the fall magazine will be out by the end of September. Another re-occurring suggestion was the reinstatement of quarterly issues of The Canadian League, which will be studied by the new executive.

There was a great deal of furor during the election campaign when the headline “Paul Martin Supports Child Pornography?” was released to the media. The topic received a lot of attention and dogged Stephen Harper during the campaign. This statement outraged Paul Martin and Jack Layton.

This would suggest that the time is right for us to strike. During the month of November all members are asked to take an action. Begin a letter-writing campaign asking all members of parliament to support tough new laws for those involved in the production and/or possession of child pornography.

Violence in videos is another area of concern that affects the lives of children. There is the example of a store owner in Nova Scotia who refused to rent violent videos to minors. The owner was taken to task by some parents for trying to impose this limitation on their children. On-going education is needed in this area.

One Nova Scotia opposition MLA, Joan Massey, herself a parent, brought forward a private members bill which asked for video games to be rated according to the violence level. This bill passed the legislature proving that one person with a mission can and does make a difference.

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has responded to complaints from individuals regarding the offensive content of a radio station in Quebec by removing the station's license. As a result there was a group protesting this action as they believe it infringes on the right to free speech.

In the area of League promotion, please continue to Sing the League's Praises. Remember for communication to be effective it requires both a sender and a receiver. In communicating the League's message, one might consider that it is sometimes better to be the spark that lights the flame than a lightning bolt that splits the earth.

As we carry out our work “For God and Canada” let us remember the words that Megan McKenna shared with us at this convention, “When people see you coming they should know that the Good News is on the way – and as a last resort, use words.”

Report of National Resolutions Chairperson Lorette Noble

For the benefit of those who are new to the resolutions process, I will briefly take us through the various steps.

Once resolutions are passed at provincial conventions, they are sent to the national resolutions committee, which meets in June to study them. The results of these deliberations are sent immediately to the provincial resolutions chairpersons of the originating provinces, with a copy to the provincial presidents. The national executive receives a chart tabulating all the resolutions received, the provinces that submitted them, the standing committee under which they fall, and a summary of the committee's recommendations. The committee might
•  suggest modifications, to clarify or simplify the resolution
•  request more, or more recent, background material
•  suggest combining two similar resolutions
•  recommend that a resolution not be accepted because it does not meet the criteria for acceptance

The originating provincial council then has some time to provide further material, if this is needed, and to respond to the committee before it meets again and prepares its final recommendations for the national executive pre-convention meeting.

Just as a further explanation, most resolutions are directed to various levels of government or to the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops or to other organizations or associations. Some submissions, however, are aimed directly toward members, to raise awareness of or to inform or educate them about an important issue. This year the national executive decided, in accordance with the guidelines in the Resolutions Supplement to the Executive Handbook, to accept one such submission as a Recommendation to members. The standing committee chairperson, who will receive it directly following the convention, will make certain the information reaches the entire membership, either by way of an article in The Canadian League , or in a communiqué or a parish mailing. It was felt that this would get the message out in the most efficient and effective way – which was the intent of the submission.

One more note, this recommendation will not be debated or amended. However, by reading it to all delegates, it was felt that it would receive the recognition and appreciation it deserves. This recommendation has been well researched using relevant background material, and this will continue to be required of recommendations to members in future.

I have just referred to the Resolutions Supplement to the Executive Handbook, which was published at the end of last year, after extensive consultation across the League and in light of the experience of past conventions. Resolutions chairpersons and council presidents at every level should have a copy. The process I have described can be found in full detail in this booklet.

The League delegation did not go to Ottawa last November to present resolutions to government because of the change in leadership and the projected general election. However, a mini-delegation including National President Marie Cameron, National Community Life Chairperson Velma Harasen, and I met with three government ministries and talked with them of the resolutions which were more time-sensitive.

We met with representatives of the departments of health and justice and the deputy prime minister's office. As always, we were very well received and, in fact, were told that they looked forward to our visit.

I am pleased to report that this year we received 17 resolutions from eight provinces. I would like to thank those who brought their concerns to us for their dedication and hard work.

This year, of the 17 resolutions received, the national executive decided that 12 resolutions would be presented (two were combined), that three not be accepted and, for the first time, that one submission be directed immediately to the appropriate standing committee chairperson as a recommendation for action by members.

On Sunday afternoon, there was the resolutions dialogue session and I am delighted to report that more than 270 members attended this year's session, where they had an opportunity to see what would be presented at the convention, and to prepare amendments if they considered them necessary.

Now the resolutions have been adopted, the real work for members begins: we will become better informed about the issues these resolutions are addressing; we will write letters to members of parliament and government ministers. One good idea for such action is getting together at parish level for letter-writing parties: include a little food, a little fun, and get a lot of serious business done!

Another idea I suggest is for every parish council to try and invite a local provincial politician and/or member of parliament (MP) to come to a meeting. Discuss with them this year's resolutions and those from previous years that still need action. Find out what their position is with regard to these issues. Explain the CWL position. It would certainly give them a deeper awareness and, I'm sure, a deeper appreciation of the values in which the CWL position is rooted, and also prepare the way for the CWL delegation's visit to Ottawa. Remember, we have a minority government at the moment and, therefore, a lot of MPs are more than usually willing to listen!

I would like to thank the members of the resolutions committee, and especially Anne-Marie Gorman of New Brunswick and Nancy Simms of B.C. & Yukon, who have been working tirelessly for the past five days over this year's resolutions.

Thank you for the privilege of serving in this challenging standing committee, whose work is only possible because of the work of members at the grassroots level. This is where our faith gives birth to action, and where, even though we are frequently rowing against the current, we continue fearlessly to cast out into the deep.

Report of National Legislation Chairperson Lucille Partington

St. Paul exhorts us to stand firm in one spirit and strive side by side with a common purpose and a common mind. How do we answer the call of God?

We protect the unborn and oppose babies being conceived so their stem cells can be harvested. We protect children and vulnerable individuals by opposing pornography, and we tell the government that the age of consent at 14 years old is way too young. We protect values by speaking out about Bill C–250 An Act to Amend the Criminal Code (hate propaganda) that could restrict freedom of speech in churches as we read gospel values, and we protect the teaching of the church by speaking out against a change in the definition of marriage.

Our values are clear to us, and Pope John Paul II said this year on January 15th that our moral and spiritual strength as women springs from the awareness that God entrusts other human beings to us in a special way.

We have a special calling to protect the rights of others, so we try to be well informed and take the time to write letters and make phone calls. I call you forth again to understand the social teaching of the church on human dignity, human rights, human life, justice and the common good. The whole idea that we can put ourselves aside for others, get out of the boat, and start a wave of good is remarkable.

I am so happy to be with you this year. Many of you know that last year I took the theme, cast out into the deep, too seriously and drove into water on the Sturgeon Lake Indian Reservation on my way to the convention. Trapped in my vehicle, with the water closing in on me, I said out loud, “I didn't plan to die today, God, but it is a good day to die.” My life really did flash before me. As I was losing consciousness in a car completely full of water, and feeling overwhelmed by God's love, a truck driver reached in, grabbed my arm, and pulled me to safety. It was his third dive to get the door open, but he was not giving up on me, nor was God, nor the League. I have mostly recovered because of your prayers.

We are here now to make a difference in the world. We are exactly where we are meant to be. God has no hands and no feet, but ours'. When the government passes bad legislation, we will not quit.

In our actions and our views let us continue to show all levels of government that we will stand behind our Christian values! May God bless you all!

Report of National Laws Chairperson Vivian Bosch

The League is rooted in history. Its history is unique because the members have written it. When we remember the presence and actions of past members, we recall times of new beginnings, exciting adventures, countless possibilities and interesting challenges. Today, we can be proud of the contribution made by each member for the edification of all, as we appreciate the past and take a glimpse into the future.

Standing committee chairpersons become excited when they see good results from an initiative which took many hours of intensive work. It is gratifying that the National Manual of Policy and Procedure is in high demand. To date, 1,266 of the revised editions have been sold.

After two years of communicating with my counterparts, I recognize that there is a desire and need to understand and implement League policy and procedure correctly. Today, members are asking, “How can we improve our procedures?” This is an encouraging sign for the future of the League!

The Constitution & Bylaws makes clear and concise points under each article and the National Manual of Policy and Procedure develops these points. Always begin with the Constitution & Bylaws and then refer to the National Manual of Policy and Procedure.

The Constitution & Bylaws and the National Manual of Policy and Procedure must be quoted word for word when answering questions or concerns. It is very important that an answer is exact, correct and not subject to personal interpretation. Answers should be researched, studied and evaluated for positive input to the inquiry. More members are quoting from the National Manual of Policy and Procedure, which means that we are striving to learn together. In time, we will become confident and able to take our places as leaders of tomorrow to Educate, Educate, Educate! Nobody can know a book by the cover alone. We come to appreciate and enjoy the content once we have taken the time to read it.

A policy recently approved by the national executive states that questions and concerns from each province are to be addressed to the provincial president. The provincial president's response, as the elected representative to the national executive table, is final. If she is unclear about the best response, she should contact the laws chairperson. Very often an affirmation from the laws chairperson is all that is required. Bypassing the diocesan and provincial levels is a negative approach to problem solving.

New members appreciate League resources and are very interested in learning. It is the council's responsibility to purchase resources for display at every meeting. This will lead to more sharing and opportunities for dialogue. We are far from enjoying the full potential and participation of all members.

Guidelines to Hosting a National Convention and Guidelines to Hosting a Provincial/Diocesan Convention are available. League protocol is well explained in these manuals. Members will gain confidence by becoming familiar with League protocol, such as the correct Order of Flag processions.

How can a member be a mentor if League resources are not available? How does a member become a mentor if she is recycled term after term? Who is teaching? Who is learning?

Has your parish council compiled a manual of policy and procedure? Much uncertainty would be eliminated if each parish council would take time to compile its own manual. The content may seem basic, but it will bring clear direction, harmony and peace to your council.

Archives are one way to discover the beautiful world of the League. It is important to update archives and store them safely where members can easily access them when necessary.

After serving 14 years on the national executive, I pray that the League may be blessed, as we continue our faith journey together, “For God and Canada.” Let us go forward in hope and proclaim our faith in action!

Report of World Uniuon of Catholic Women's Organizations Honorary Life Member Claire Heron

The North American World Union of Catholic Women's Organizations (WUCWO) Regional Conference was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota last September. The theme was the same as that of the WUCWO 2001 General Assembly, The Prophetic Mission of Women.

The WUCWO board was present. They held an executive meeting prior to the regional conference. This arrangement was great since members of the WUCWO board mingled with League and National Council of Catholic Women members present. The next North American Regional Conference will be hosted by Canada, probably in 2008.

The annual WUCWO board meeting was held in Madrid, Spain in February 2004. My complete report may be found on the League website.

At the 2005 board meeting, current board members will be nominated for the office of president-general as WUCWO prepares for elections at the general assembly to be held in Arlington, Virginia, May 31 to June 7, 2006. Plan now to attend.

The WUCWO representative to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has asked for information about work done in Canada to combat hunger. Provincial presidents and standing committee chairpersons are helping to gather this information.

As 2004 is the 10 th anniversary of the International Year of the Family, WUCWO has prepared and sent a declaration on the family to the United Nations.

We are nearing the end of the second year of the WUCWO Endowment Fund. Pledges over three years continue to be honoured. The WUCWO Endowment Fund had a $750,000 target, which if all pledges are honoured, will be reached in 2005.

 

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