REPORT OF SASKATCHEWAN PROVINCIAL PRESIDENT
MARY NORDICK

Every year should have a highlight and, for 2003 in Saskatchewan, the highlight was conventions. The provincial convention in June was hosted by parish councils in Arcola-Carlyle; small councils, but what an excellent job of hosting they did. Great food, warm hospitality, interesting décor; nothing was overlooked. In fact, some of their decorations were enjoyed at the annual national convention. The guest speaker, Megan McKenna, was outstanding. Through wonderful stories, probing questions, and scripture she led delegates to reflect deeply on the theme of cast out into the deep.

In August, the Saskatoon Diocesan Council hosted the annual national convention, thus capping several years of meticulous planning. One of the proudest moments in a provincial president's term is when she carries her province's flag at the annual national convention and to carry it in her home diocese and province is particularly sweet. Saskatchewan CWL members were among the most dedicated, hard working, creative, giving members in the country and to carry the flag of and represent such great women was an awesome privilege. The convention was outstanding with Marie-Louise Ternier-Gommers from Saskatoon, an inspiring keynote speaker. The liturgies were beautiful and the music, as the Regina diocesan president reported, ?was simply outstanding.?

A high point was the very moving foot washing ceremony. Never have provincial presidents been so warmly served by the national president and spiritual advisor. Saskatoon will long be remembered for its welcoming hospitality.

The provincial council continued its exploration of cast out into the deep at its fall reflective prayer workshop on social justice and the rosary. The workshop challenged attendees to explore ways to cast out beyond their narrow comfort zones. A session on mentoring in the League was favourably received.

In 2003, provincial elections were held. While grateful for the dedicated women who offered their gifts, it was necessary to make some appointments to fill the executive and the legislation and resolutions standing committees were combined. Getting women to let their names stand for election is a problem, one exacerbated by the recent amalgamation of five dioceses into three. There were several discussions about changing the election and eligibility criteria. Some suggestions were to drop the requirement that one has to have served as president for diocesan and provincial levels (simply require service on the diocesan or provincial executive) and to extend the term of eligibility.

Maintaining and increasing membership was another struggle for councils. The membership of 9,197 members was down from the previous year; however, some councils did report an increase.

The three diocesan presidents reported a very active year with workshops, regional meetings and conventions. Regina Diocesan Council had Sr. Bernadette Feist OSU as convention speaker on native ministry. One region held a Leading the League workshop.

Saskatoon Diocesan Council had speakers on bullying, the Book of Wisdom, palliative care, Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace presentations, and Leading the League workshops. Prince Albert Diocesan Council had regional workshops on social justice and presentations by Marie-Louise Ternier-Gommers.

The definition of marriage issue occupied a lot of time over the spring and summer. Many councils were very concerned about the issue and action taken by the League. The League's Position Paper on the Definition of Marriage ratified at the annual national convention has been very helpful.

We give thanks for God's many blessings on Saskatchewan League members in the year 2003 and we continue to cast out into the deep in service to God through service to others.