2006 Annual Report of It is amazing how so few women can have such a strong influence on each military base across Canada. All councils tackled individual and varied concerns with passion and determination to get the job done. Some councils had a social with a tribute to Pope John Paul II and an introduction of Pope Benedict XVI. Most councils hosted or participated in the World Day of Prayer, with some having up to seven churches participating. The fellowship that followed these events was so important for the building of community ties. Members continued to work hard for the parish and the League, volunteering intensively in the community and participating actively in fundraisers and events.
All councils gave generously in service to the military community and the world around them. Councils reported being involved in Remembrance Day and Red Fridays. They promoted reaching out to other women in their communities and taking an active part with women's groups that are attached to civilian parishes and churches. Bingo for seniors and volunteering in nursing homes and drop in centres were some other ways members worked to make a difference. Within their chapels, chili for charity, Lenten soup and buns after mass, the Way of the Cross, praying the rosary during the month of May, celebrating the Feast Day of Our Lady of Good Counsel, and hosting Mother's Day brunches and Father's Day barbeques were building blocks for the League. Adopt a Grandparent, ministries of hospitality, Liturgy of the Word, Eucharistic servers, children's liturgy, Valentine's Day fudge sale, St. Patrick's Day Irish stew for the parish, Christmas craft and bake sales, collecting boxes for Operation Christmas Child, potlucks, penny auctions and laying wreaths on Remembrance Day were examples of wonderful charity. Some councils had difficult times, and thus decided to concentrate on the spiritual aspect of members' lives. Some took a Journey to December, with monthly themes such as give, receive, listen, feel, sing, share, dance, love, eat, drink, Merry Christmas, and joy. Some had a workshop on The God Who Won't Let Go! and a Lenten reflection on service. Along with the spiritual aspect, councils encouraged laughter. Members cannot get so bogged down in meetings that they forget to laugh and have fun. When others see members' joy, they will want to be part of the League. One council opened its newly renovated church in May, a beautiful all faiths building. Leaders of different faith groups attended the service, praying over the building. It was very interesting to hear about the other faiths. A former provincial spiritual advisor and the chaplain general were in attendance. In October, St. Brendan Parish Council (CFB Halifax) celebrated its 40th anniversary. Holy Name Parish Council in 4 Wing (Cold Lake) and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish Council (Comox) celebrated their 45th anniversary. The fight against cancer among the reporting councils was listed on most reports. Also included were the needs of women and children. Packages were sent by many councils to troops who were away from home. Projects supported included: The work for the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace was a good opportunity to look at others who suffer from the lack of basic needs in their lives. Health care ? that is a basic human right and goes without saying in Canada ? is non-existent in many countries. Members must take every opportunity to speak out and help those who don't enjoy the rights and freedoms taken for granted in daily life in Canada. MaterCare International also did great work and its ongoing needs should not be forgotten. |
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