The Victoria Diocesan Annual Meeting of Members, held on April 22, 2023, was co-hosted by St. Edwards, Sacred Heart and St. Patrick’s in Victoria.
In addition to the usual business, highlights included a presentation by Sofie of Sparkly and SmART, a dynamic young woman who uses her creativity in not only her art but in the way she approaches life. All proceeds of her art are directly funnelled into sustainable initiatives that advances girls’ educational opportunities in Africa because she is convinced that this investment may be the highest return investment in the developing world.
Sharon Geiger facilitated a workshop on the provincial theme, Embracing Christ in Everyone and presented the council with its 95th Anniversary certificate. The Freda Smith bursary was presented to Andrea-Marie Omogolor of Our Lady of the Rosary parish.
At the closing Mass, celebrated by Bishop Gary Gordon and Fr. Mike Favero, diocesan spiritual advisor, the diocesan executive was installed for the 2023-2025 term. The evening ended with a banquet at St. Andrew’s High School where Blanca Stead and Kathy Weswick were installed as our new life members and entertainment by the Greater Victoria Concert Band.
Sofie of Sparkly and SmART
Laurel Phyall, Victoria Diocesan President receiving the council’s 95th Anniversary certificate from Sharon Geiger, President of BC & Yukon Provincial council.
Freda Smith bursary recipient, Andrea-Marie Omogolor and her mom, Rita, of Our Lady of the Rosary parish.
Some of the members of the 2023-2025 executive of the Victoria Diocesan Council. Gerry Heywood, Vice-President, Katy Fadum, Chair of Faith, Fr. Mike Favero, Diocesan Spiritual Advisor, Bertha Landrie, President, Laurel Phyall, Past-President and Yvonne Martin, Secretary. Pat Ellis, Treasurer could not stay for the ceremony. The positions of Chair of Service and Chair of Social Justice are waiting to be filled.
Bishop Gary Gordon installing Blanca Stead and Kathy Weswick as new Life Members, with Bertha Landrie, President, looking on.
