March 31, 2026
TO: Provincial Presidents and Secretaries
CC: National Officers (for information), National Life Member Liaison
FROM: Madonna Clark, National Chairperson of Service
ENCL: Coldest Night of the Year
Supplement to 12 Hours of Prayer for Palliative Care
Please forward this message to chairpersons of service.
Reflecting on February: A Month of Love and Compassion
This February, members brought the national theme to life through acts of service and compassion. A shining example was participation in the Coldest Night of the Year walk, where members nationwide supported those experiencing homelessness and hardship.
In total, 25 League teams in 20 locations—representing Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia—brought together 186 members and raised $91,547.36, placing the League fourth among community group participants. Many members supported through sponsorships and donations, proving that every contribution matters. Together, members truly “walked the talk.” Please extend heartfelt thanks to members in your province who organized teams, walked, donated or supported the initiative in countless ways. Their generosity created a meaningful impact. Looking ahead, please encourage your diocesan counterparts to invite councils to begin planning for the February 2027 walk so that even more members can participate.
As Lent began in mid-February, members embraced the League’s daily prayer, reflection and intention—living out the pillars of faith, service and social justice each day. Encourage councils in your province to deepen their Lenten journey through meaningful almsgiving by supporting and promoting the League’s national voluntary funds. Development & Peace—Caritas Canada, Coady International Institute, Catholic Near East Welfare Association and Catholic Missions In Canada reflect the true spirit of Lent—supporting those in need while strengthening communities and inspiring all.
Members also gathered for World Day of Prayer, prepared by the women of Nigeria. Rooted in Matthew 11:28–30, I Will Give You Rest: Come, this ecumenical celebration brought members and communities together in faith and fellowship. In New Brunswick, the presence of the lieutenant governor further highlighted its significance.
April: Easter Renewal and Feast Day of Our Lady of Good Counsel
As Catholics celebrate Easter, may members embrace renewal, gather in joy and reflect on Christ’s call to love and serve. Feast Day of Our Lady of Good Counsel (April 26th), whose wisdom continues to guide the League, is a perfect day for chairpersons of service and faith to collaborate. Encourage your counterparts to organize prayer services, gatherings or shared meals. Invite neighbouring parishes. Invite members who don’t usually lead to take charge of this one-day project. Parish councils might also consider offering Sunday Mass on April 26th for members. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to welcome potential new members, share ideas and celebrate community. See resources on the national website. Many hands make light work!
May: Month of Mary, Mother of the Poor
May invites members to live their faith through prayer, service and advocacy:
- Red Dress Day (May 5th): Honour missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit peoples through awareness and education.
- National Hospice Palliative Care Week (May 3–9): Invite councils to participate in 12 Hours of Prayer for Palliative Care using the national resources available. See the enclosed Supplement to 12 Hours of Prayer for Palliative Care.
- National Family and Life Week (mid-May): Celebrate and support families as places of love, dignity and safety for every child.
- National Accessibility Week: Encourage councils to promote inclusion for those facing barriers and to uphold dignity at every stage of life.
Every province, diocese and parish council is unique. Encourage members to do what they can, when they can. Small acts of service, prayer or gatherings—especially in partnership with chairpersons of faith and social justice—bring Christ’s love to those most in need.
A Call to Action
Chairpersons of service, please take time to read, share and discuss this communiqué at every level, especially with parish councils. They remain the heartbeat of the League, and your leadership and encouragement help bring these efforts to life in every parish.
Together, let’s continue to Ignite Your Passion, Empower His Mission, by sharing Christ’s love through service.
Blessings as we journey together,
Madonna Clark
National Chairperson of Service