Betty Colaneri, National Vice-President, November 30, 2024
FOR: Provincial Vice-Presidents
“For everything there is a season, and time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
My dear sisters in the League,
Copies of Faith, Vision and a Dream: 100 Years of Service, the 100th anniversary book of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada, are still available. The coffee table book can be purchased on the national website through the new e-shop. It would make the perfect keepsake for a member celebrating a milestone in her membership. With Christmas right around the corner, it would make a wonderful Christmas gift!
November is the month when Canadians reflect on the souls of many who have gone to their heavenly homes. We reflect on our loved ones and those who fought so bravely so that we can live and speak freely. November 11th was also the Feast of St. Martin of Tours, which marked the end of harvest season, and confirmed that winter is on its way.
This time of year also marks the occasion for members to renew their memberships. Let’s work together to continue the momentum of the ‘1’ Campaign to “Recruit, Retain and Regain.” My previous communiqué had the catchphrases for October, November and December—I hope you are making good use of them. The following catchphrases are for the New Year. Remember, there is no expiration date on any of the catchphrases, so they can be used as many times as you like!
January: Happy ‘1’ New Member!
Why not start the New Year by inviting ‘1’ new member to join you at a meeting?
We all make New Year’s resolutions, so why not make this one of them? Please ask your diocesan counterparts to encourage members to reach out to a woman in their parish or community.
February: ‘1’ Amazing Love
The love of God is beyond words. He sent his only son to die for us and it is that ‘1’ love that empowers us. That love taught us to love and serve those around us as he loved and served us. It is members’ ministry to proclaim and show that ‘1’ love to their League sisters, parishes and communities.
March: The Courage of ‘1’
Members can look at two important feast days in March for inspiration—the Feast of St. Joseph (March 19th) and the Feast of St. Oscar Romero (March 24th). St. Joseph was ‘1’ humble, yet courageous man who embodied the qualities of compassion, patience and faithfulness.
St. Oscar Romero had the courage to speak out for the suffering, oppressed, poor and marginalized. He was ‘1’ brave soul who advocated for social justice and human rights. His courage inspires members to advocate for social change and stand up for those oppressed who have no voice.
Kindly forward these catchphrases and encourage them to be used.
May the peace of his love surround you, and may the blessings of hope be with you and your families this upcoming Christmas season and always.
Respectfully submitted,
Betty Colaneri
National Vice-President