Joline Belliveau, National Chairperson of Service, September 13th, 2023
FOR: Chairpersons of Service (new structure), Christian Family Life, Community Life and Education and Health (previous structure) at All Levels
What is the best definition of service? “An act of helpful activity; help; aid” (Collins Dictionary). The national executive/board has recently transitioned to the new structure recommended in the five-year strategic plan. I know the changes are already in place for some councils at other levels, while for others, the new structure will change soon. Service is one of the three pillars—faith, service and social justice.
“Service is a pillar of the culture of encounter: ‘It means bending over those in need and stretching out a hand to them’….” (Pope Francis). In the League, members are called to service in various ways to share their gifts and talents. They are called to value the human spirit with dignity and respect. While members serve, they develop bonds with each other and relationships with those they serve. Many friendships in the League form while serving others, whether through delivering a tray of food, volunteering at a charity event, or reading a book to someone visually impaired. Members truly evangelize their faith as they serve.
Monthly meetings need not always be held at the same time, on the same day or place. Consider scheduling an activity of service instead of the monthly meeting, or schedule a meeting in a daycare centre, a room in a local hospital, or a shelter for young people. Many councils have wonderful ideas, projects and fundraisers. When brainstorming, remember to listen to others, respect each other’s suggestions, build and improve on ideas and learn to think “outside of the box.” You will be surprised at the outcome of the brainstorming session. Write down all the phrases, statements and thoughts and refer to them often. Service is a ministry, and we are called to ministry in our daily lives and within the parish community. Examples of ministry include volunteering at a charity event, knitting or crocheting blankets, hats, mittens and shawls, visiting the sick and more.
On the national website are two documents to help you, particularly those at the parish council level, discover how to develop your own service projects or use the suggestions/ideas provided: “The Joy of Leadership—Module 1: Ministries” (835/835a) and Toolkit for Service (637). Both sources are invaluable tools in assisting councils while developing a service ministry that will benefit everyone involved. Please use them.
Your sister in the League,
Joline Belliveau
National Chairperson of Service