November 30, 2025
TO: Provincial Presidents and Secretaries
CC: National Officers (for information), National Life Member Liaison
FROM: Madonna Clark, National Chairperson of Service
Please forward this message to chairpersons of service.
Dear sisters in the League,
As we journey through Advent, we answer God’s call to serve: Here I am, Lord, send me. Mental health challenges often go unseen, yet members’ presence, compassion and care can bring comfort and hope. As Pilgrims of Hope, nearing the close of this Jubilee 2025, members are reminded that true service begins with being present to one another, especially those who feel isolated or overwhelmed. Let us also encourage self-care and rest for those who serve so faithfully. Please ask your diocesan counterparts and parish chairpersons of service with no diocesan council, to encourage members to use the Season of Service Advent Calendar, available on the national website, for inspiration or add new ways to serve as they prepare for the birth of Christ. May members’ acts of compassion bring peace to anxious hearts by making Jesus the focus. Advent invites Catholics to pause and be present. Hold in prayer those who struggle silently with mental illness and offer gentle compassion to those around you. The Lord calls each of us to be a light for those walking in darkness; may we answer, Here I am Lord, send me.
A national webinar with guest speaker Dr. Cathy Holtmann on “Family Violence: Challenges and Opportunities for Catholics” was held on November 5th. Members are invited to explore The RAVE Project (Religion and Violence E-Learning), a faith-based resource that helps communities understand and respond to abuse with compassion and awareness. One feature, “The Stained Glass Story of Abuse,” powerfully portrays the reality of violence in families and the hope and renewal of faith-based healing, and is well-suited for a prayerful reflection or vigil. The webinar was recorded and is available on the national website.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops reminds us that promoting the safety and dignity of every person is part of our Catholic commitment to justice and compassion. Family violence and abuse are also addressed in the church’s wider teachings, including the Synod on the Family (2014–2015) and Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation, Amoris Laetitia: The Joy of Love, which Dr. Holtmann shared as important references that emphasize the need to support families experiencing violence, protect the vulnerable and promote healing and reconciliation.
As the League transitions to the new theme, Ignite Your Passion, Empower His Mission, in the New Year, let’s keep our hands ready to serve. Let love continue to guide our steps, reaching out to those who are hurting, forgotten or weighed down and gently reminding them that they are never alone.
January: Ignite Your Passion, Empower His Mission
As 2026 begins, members are called to serve with open hearts and united hearts. The national focus, “Blessed are the Poor,” reminds us to serve with humility, gratitude and compassion, reaching out to those in need of friendship or hope. January also marks the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Let us strengthen bonds within the League and beyond by partnering with parish and community groups in shared service and prayer. Service is how members bring Christ’s blessing to life in their families, parishes and communities. Together, let’s ignite our passion for service with “hands that share and hearts that care” and a spirit that unites us in Christ’s mission.
February: “Blessed are the Poor”
The national focus leads members to encounter Christ in those who are struggling physically, emotionally or spiritually. Support local outreach projects and share moments of hope and service that reflect Christ’s mercy. Even small acts of service can transform lives and strengthen a community. As Lent approaches, members’ call to service deepens, turning compassion into concrete action inspired by the corporal works of mercy. May this season of Lent renew our spirits and strengthen our call to service. A “40 Days of Service” for Lent guide with one act of mercy each day will be released in the New Year. Please ask your diocesan counterparts and parish chairpersons of service without a diocesan council, to encourage members to watch for its release in late January/early February and take part in this Lenten journey of love and service.
March: Walking with Christ
Lent is a sacred time to renew our spirits and strengthen our call to serve. Development & Peace—Caritas Canada has Lenten activities available on its website. Please ask your diocesan counterparts and parish chairpersons of service without a diocesan council, to encourage members to explore these valuable resources and participate in the campaigns. We are invited to deepen our faith through prayer, fasting and acts of service. Empowered by Christ’s love, let us serve with joy, humility and renewed purpose. Through simple acts of love, we live the League’s mission “… to witness to the love of God through ministry and service.”
Closing Thoughts
Guided by the Holy Spirit and the loving care of Our Lady of Good Counsel, may our hearts and hands continue to bring light, healing and hope to those around us. As we move from Advent into a New Year of faith-filled service, may we listen for God’s gentle voice in the quiet moments and serve with open hearts, compassion and dedication in all we do.
Blessings as we journey together,
Madonna Clark
National Chairperson of Service