DATE: September 30, 2019
FROM: Fran Lucas, National president-elect and chairperson of organization
TO: Parish council chairpersons of organization
To all presidents-elect in small and large parish councils across this beautiful country, I wish you renewed energy and passion for your work as we begin another year in our beloved League!
Membership
Parish councils are where it all begins—they allow for success in all we do. With recruiting of new members, each council needs to look at ways to ensure members renew their membership every year. And, if they do not, find out why and work to eliminate that from happening in the future.
There will always be attrition; however, there are many instances where member action or lack of action contribute to that result.
Leadership Development
Presidents-elect are instrumental in ensuring the parish council, and in turn, all levels of the League, have members well oriented to the League. They should be aware of the basics — who we are, how we got started, that spirituality is our cornerstone, and the list of social justice actions undertaken within the community. They need to know about diocesan, provincial and national levels and the reasons for them. How great if they knew the names of the diocesan, provincial and national presidents. Only with a solid knowledge base can they feel fulfilled, do well in their position, and say “yes” to moving to other chairperson roles and even to the next level. I am confident you have read the Executive Handbook and Handbook for Organization Chairpersons.
Leading the League is a comprehensive teaching manual that makes delivery of an orientation session easy. With a wealth of other information, it is worth its weight in gold! Have your council purchase one today.
The Catholic Women’s League strategic planning is moving along in noticeable strides. Be aware of the process and current steps being taken. The League of the Future – Year 1 is a presentation delivered at the national convention to update members and help them understand the current stage of the five-year process of the implementation committee. Through the diocesan president elect, you can obtain more details on how members can participate in a presentation.
League Resource Material
Under leadership development above, several resources were identified—all easily accessible on the national website under “Manuals” at cwl.ca. If you were unable to attend the annual national convention in Calgary, visit the website and view the various presentations. At a council meeting, show members how and where they can be accessed — an easy teaching moment with hopes of larger results.
Annual Reports
Please find several directives on the completion, submission, etc. of the 2019 annual report survey enclosed.
Familiarize yourself with all and encourage the parish council executive to do the same. There are revised questions, new questions and larger comment boxes allowing for lengthier commentary. Your suggestions of improving and making some steps easier were heard. Your leadership in ensuring each report is completed, whether there is or is not a chairperson in that position, is imperative. If you have questions when completing the survey, please contact national office.
Life Membership
Under leadership development, the importance of a good orientation for new and returning executive members was stated. Life members are a perfect resource to help in this area. Reach out to them often — they are ready to help when asked. Inviting a life member from a neighbouring council or diocese would be a good strategy.
May Our Lady of Good Counsel guide you as you serve the League with love and dedication!
