2006 Annual Report of ?I think there are all manner of things a woman can offer the world. I'm not sure it's because we are women.... We know what it is to live a life of humility, peace, compassion and resignation.? (Called to Question, Joan Chittister) Some of the undertakings of Catholic women in Ontario and their companions on the journey are recorded here for posterity. Many more go unsung. • Members continued to support the efforts to retain the traditional definition of marriage by speaking with their members of parliament. • The education and health chairperson introduced the provincial council to her mission experience through a slide presentation on the building of a school in the Dominican Republic. • A seminarian from St. Augustine 's and one from St. Peter's each received $500.00 bursaries. • The annual two page spread in The Catholic Register featured information on each standing committee's responsibilities and the annual provincial convention. • The communications chairperson oversaw the website updating. This process was long and arduous and the results were very gratifying. • The organization chairperson was very diligent in promoting leadership and public speaking courses throughout the province. Orientation for new members and new executive was encouraged. • Of the 13 diocesan conventions, 12 had companions on the journey as the theme, with nine having sub-themes of Walking with Jesus and Mary; With Mary and Martha; Showing Kindness to Each Other; On the Pathway to Christ: Companions with All of Creation; Gifts to Each Other; Gathering at His Table; Together We Can Make a Difference; and Elder Care ? a Gift to be Shared. One diocesan council celebrated its 80th anniversary. Each convention enriched its participation through satisfying spiritual programs, lively presentations and wonderful camaraderie. Clergy support for the diocesan executive was very evident and heart-warming. • The president and education and health standing committee chairperson attended the Institute for Catholic Education conference Navigating in Turbulent Waters, Together in Faith. A life member represented the provincial council at a Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention convention in Toronto. • The legislation chairperson and community life chairperson attended several colloquia at the Canadian Catholic Bioethics Institute. • The provincial convention was held in Lindsay, with the theme Companions on the Journey ? Pathways to Understanding. Guest speakers spoke on understanding our faith and evangelizing; understanding our Muslim neighbours; and, the definition of marriage, and euthanasia and assisted suicide. Workshops on spiritual development, communications and elections and past president were well attended. Seven resolutions were brought to the floor and adopted. A parade of life honoured deceased members. • Three new life members were welcomed. • Six members received national bursaries. • In November and December, the provincial executive met with provincial ministers/ministries of environment, responsibility for seniors, health and long term care, and finance to discuss 2006 resolutions on renewable energy, labelling of pest control products, plastic bags, Old Age Security, Ontario Works ? Income Increase, and Goods and Services Tax (GST) exemption on funeral services. Members were advised to lobby the federal government to increase Old Age Security and get the GST exemption on funerals. • In September, the president and president-elect met with the executive of the Ontario Conference of Catholic Bishops to discuss issues of mutual concern. The support of the bishops was very tangible and appreciated. • Members assisted a northern region's youth ministry through the sale of cards. • The year ended with Eucharistic celebrations on December 8th and 12th throughout Ontario. |
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