The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is held on July 16th. According to Carmelite traditions, on this day, Mary, the Mother of Christ, gave the brown scapular to monastic St. Simon Stock to protect his order from oppression. This day is a special devotion to Mary, who teaches us to be open to God, and to His will.

July 30 is International Friendship Day. It is a day to recognize Jesus as being the ultimate example of a friend. Today we pray for guidance on how to be a true friend for others not just when it is convenient, but to show the world His love, forgiveness, and kindness.

Celebrated annually on the third Saturday in September, this day is meant to foster spiritual development and celebrate the graces received through members’ service. Parish councils are encouraged to organize a gathering with a guest speaker, participate  in or host a prayer service or welcome other sisters in the League to speak about other Catholic women’s organizations in their home country. October is the month of Mary—a time when devotion and prayer to our Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, are encouraged. Devote extra time to the Holy Rosary.

In his pilgrimage to Canada in July 2022, Pope Francis described his apostolic journey to Canada as a “penitential pilgrimage.” He began his message at Maskwacis by saying, “I have come to your native lands to tell you in person of my sorrow, to implore God’s forgiveness, healing and reconciliation, to express my closeness and to pray with you and for you.” The Catholic Women’s League of Canada is committed to healing and reconciliation, expressed by its document of resources titled “Walking Together with Indigenous Catholic Women.” Members are encouraged to pray the attached prayer and to express their solidarity.  

October 10th is World Mental Health Day. Many of us will experience a mental health challenge at some point in life. Regardless of the struggles we face in our lives, and indeed because of them, we are all welcomed and valued in the eyes of the Lord. We pray that ministries will help build communities of warmth and care where those who face mental health challenges will, in the words of Pope Francis, “find support and a light that opens them up to life."