March brought warmer weather and a sense of anxiousness to get out and visit councils and see members as the pandemic restrictions lifted in many areas. Anxious but unable to do this in a big way, I did what was possible. One outing was to my parish council meeting at St. Joseph’s Basilica, where members asked, “who is that?”—unable to recognize a member with a longer hairstyle and behind a mask.
A real outing came in the way of an overnight trip to Kelowna, British Columbia to finalize details for the 102nd annual national convention. There I met with national convention planning committee co-chairpersons Nancy Simms and Debbie Cloutier. We visited Immaculate Conception Church—the opening and closing mass site—and met with Most Rev. Gregory Bittman (Nelson) to collaborate on various topics. Hours were spent with the hotel convention coordinator at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort. The site is stunning, with the lake nearby, sunny patios and walking paths. My big concern is getting members back for business after the breaks!
Being well into Lent, I encourage members to take time each day to be still, to be silent and to be reflective as they draw nearer to the joy of Easter with the resurrection of our Lord. All the while being as they always are Catholic and Living It!
2022 National Convention Planning Committee Co-Chairpersons Nancy Simms (right) and Debbie Cloutier (left) with National President and Chairperson of International Relations Fran Lucas (centre).
Fran Lucas
National President and Chairperson of International Relations