On this International Women’s Day, it is good to remember that, while progress has been made, “Women make up 71% of the 40 million people who suffer today from modern forms of slavery. At the same time, we are called to be women who promote hope. This is what our society and our Church need from us: women capable of spreading mercy from our inner selves, that seek to give life and never cancel or diminish it, that reach out to those who suffer the most and accompany those most in need acting by a maternal love capable of silent sacrifice and extreme creativity, and women that evangelize with tender language and gestures… that’s how we may heal the open wounds of our Lord” (Maria Lea Servina, President General WUCWO International Women’s Day Message 2019).
Pope Francis, on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2019, said, “Thus the dream of peace becomes a reality when we look towards women”.
As the League approaches its 100th anniversary, may its members, along with women around the world, take a moment to reflect on their unique charisms, and use them to promote a more just and peaceful world where all women are welcomed and celebrated.
Anne-Marie Gorman
National President