Presidents’ Outings for September 2022
Fran Lucas, National President
September in Alberta was blessed with the most beautiful weather drawing us out to enjoy as much of the beauty around as possible. One of my first outings in September was a trip to Lac Ste. Anne, one of the pilgrimage sites Pope Francis was at during his visit to Alberta in July. Although the site was totally empty, the beautiful church – stained glass window photo included – and path leading to the water where Pope Francis stood and blessed the lake was very peaceful and comforting.
History in the making seemed to be the theme in September. St. Joseph’s Basilica CWL – my council – celebrated their 70th anniversary with a very well attended brunch. Lloyd Cardinal was our guest and performed for us. He had also performed for Pope Francis in July. St. Charles CWL had celebrated their 70th anniversary earlier in the year. Unable to attend the latter on their special date, I joined them in September at a meeting to present a certificate.
On the passing of Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, the Alberta Legislature had a book of condolence I took advantage of signing. Along with me came Marilyn Schafer, CWL member from Calgary who was visiting in Edmonton. Later that day on my walk I stopped at our Government House and signed another condolence book. If once is good, twice is better. What a cheerful display of Paddy Bear by the Queen’s photo, greeted us! A memorial at the legislature was held a few days later which I happily attended even with the drizzling rain.
Attending Edmonton Diocesan Fall Meeting with a room full of members added great joy, especially to hear the positivity of having the amendments voted on and adopted at the national convention.
My first time to be a part of the Plenary Assembly of the Canadian Council of Catholic Bishops took place in Cornwall, ON. Our National Spiritual Bishop Stephen Jensen and I took time for a photo to mark the occasion.
September’s final outing was attending the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League Congress in Edmonton. Their National President Barbara Hlus was complimentary of our convention in August which she had attended. Bringing greetings on behalf of our national council led to two of their members sharing with me that they also held membership with our League. An added treat to the event was bringing home a small bag of wheat – but that’s another story!
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
May the rich blessings granted to us be shared freely with those in need.
Calgary member Marilyn and Fran signing book at Legislature
Ukraine Congress
Fran Lucas with Bishop Jenson
Queen’s Memorial
Stained glass window in church at Lac Ste. Anne
Queen’s Memorial