The theme “Seek always the face of the Lord” set the scene for the 91st Annual General Conference of the Catholic Women’s League of Victoria and Wagga Wagga held last week at the Jika International in Fairfield, Melbourne.
The chief celebrant for the opening Eucharist was Bishop Christopher Prowse, representing Archbishop Denis Hart, with concelebrants Fr Werner Utri, parish priest of St Anthony’s, Alphington and Fr Pat Harvey, Melbourne Archdiocesan chaplain. From beginning to the closing prayers of the second day, the time spent was informative and rewarding.
During his homily Bishop Prowse drew attention to Mary, Queen and Mother as a role model. Mary praised God in the Magnificat and pondered and treasured things in her heart.
Guest Speakers included Fr Daniel Benedetti MGL who spoke on the charisms of the Missionaries of God’s Love order and their work with young men and youth. The MGLs have 14 students studying for the priesthood in their seminary house in Burwood with more joining them in 2008.
Sr Michele Toussaint, Congregational Leader of the Family Care Sisters, with whom CWL is closely linked as their foundress was a member of the first executive of the CWL here in Melbourne, spoke of the value of family life and of the care and wonderful support they offer to families requiring assistance. Generous volunteers help with this work.
Leonie Rastus from Parish Nurse Ministries, Geelong, explained this new venture in assisting parishioners in a variety of areas, with a primary focus on 'caring for the carers.'
Brenda Finlayson Vice-President General of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations and editor of the magazine Women’s Voice, spoke about her work in WUCWO, and reminded members to be constantly vigilant, especially where the written word may be falsely represented.
Carmel Eccles, a registered nurse from the Alfred Hospital, told the conference of how she spends her holidays in Vietnam as a volunteer at two orphanages where 200 children are being cared for by only six carers. The poverty and lack of funds for medical and school requirements restricts this wonderful work.
John Rheinhart, from the Melbourne Archdiocese WYD- Days in the Diocese explained what will happen within the parishes next year. He suggested hospitality as a possible way Catholic Women's League members may be involved. John reminded all a the conference of the importance in sharing and chatting over a 'cup of tea.'
Anna Krohn, explained the Anima Women’s Network Inc., which has a Memorandum of Understanding with the Catholic Women’s League. Anima is a voluntary support network for women which enables women to enrich their lives by addressing the issues faced by women in their faith, families, relationships, workplaces and society.
Peter Roberts entertained members and invited guests from the Victorian Catholic Universities Students Association with his harp at the confernece dinner. Robert works with people in aged care and the hospice in Geelong and has recently introduced his Reverie Harp, a magnificent instrument that can be played by anyone. It creates peaceful comforting tones.
A number of resolutions were passed at the conference dealing with issues such as: Government funding for Pastoral Care; Pregnancy Support; affordable rental housing; affordable housing for purchase including good financial counselling and, individual meters fitted to high rise residences with a fairer costing for gas in these residences.
Members were reminded to pray continually for respect for life. Bishop Prowse stated that the most dangerous place for a person in Victoria to be today is in the womb.