Enthusiasm for the Council of Catholic Women makes great things happen!

by Mary Karnitz

God’s word was given to us that we might listen and act upon it. "Go into the World and Proclaim the Gospel" was the theme at our Diocesan Convention in Redwood Falls this past April, and it continues to be the theme of the New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (DCCW) throughout the year.

Our theme is articulated through the words and actions of the women of the Council. We seek to advocate for the voiceless, the vulnerable, the poor, and the disenfranchised. We not only share our gifts of time, energy, and creativity, but we also support one another, empower one another, educate one another, and pray for one another. Together we work lovingly and diligently in our parishes, in our regions, and in our diocese to support our bishop, pastors, pastoral administrators, and communities. By supporting one another in all our work and projects, we enhance our lives, our spirituality, our families, our communities, our governments, and our world.

My enthusiasm for the Council of Catholic Women emanates from the Church which is here to nourish us, strengthen us, and guide us.

The DCCW Fall Gatherings are a means to implement our mission of prayer, study, and service. I applaud each region for its ingenuity in the choice of this year’s themes and speakers for the gatherings which were exceptional.

I also commend those who work with our CCW Diocesan Newsletter which reaches all our parishes. It is well presented and very informational.

Collaborating with the Diocesan Pastoral Council to co-sponsor the Diocesan Celebration of Marriage and Families at Bird Island was a privilege. The heart of the celebration was to affirm marriage and promote living and transmitting faith in the family, the foundation of our society.

"Yes, Lord, Your Servant is Listening" set the tone and direction for 800 women and moderators who attended the National Council of Catholic Women biennial General Assembly hosted this year by the Milwaukee Archdiocesan CCW. Listening proved vital to all the leadership sessions and education opportunities: diocesan and parish presidents listened to one another; commission coordinators shared ideas with their counterparts in the diocese; and parish and diocesan leaders as well as program planners articulated new ideas and common concerns.

Listening and sharing with one another makes all members of the Council of Catholic Women better, stronger, and more prepared to reach Catholic women with our message.

Mary Karnitz, a member of St. Mary’s, New Ulm, is the DCCW President.