On October 12, 2026, OLOF CCW welcomed Emily Justus, Executive Director of STAR (Shangri-La Therapeutic Academy of Riding), as the special guest speaker at its General Meeting, held in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi.Emily shared a PowerPoint presentation highlighting how horse-related activities can provide therapeutic benefits for individuals with physical and mental challenges.One of STAR’s programs, Heroes & Horses , brings volunteer veterans together to assist fellow veterans facing challenges. Another program, Minis in Motion , brings miniature horses and donkeys to nursing homes, schools, and special events, offering comfort and joy to those they visit.It was a delightful and educational evening as members learned more about the special bond between humans and animals and how these sensitive creatures can positively impact our lives!
The Greater Meriden Council of Catholic Women recently held an informative discussion in recognition of October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Three guest speakers shared their experiences and insights: Lindsey Walters from Chrysalis, Officer Villecco of the Meriden Police Department, and Officer Boyle of the Wallingford Police Department. The discussion was lively and engaging, with the speakers sharing valuable information about domestic violence incidents and answering questions from Council members. The officers were grateful to receive stuffed animals donated by Council members. When responding to domestic violence calls, officers bring these stuffed animals to help comfort children and provide reassurance during what can be a stressful and frightening experience. Chrysalis is a private, nonprofit, multiservice organization that supports individuals and families. In cases involving domestic violence, Chrysalis provides shelter and ongoing assistance to help families navigate difficult circumstances. The officers also encouraged Council members to donate pajamas for women and children who may need to leave their homes unexpectedly without time to gather personal belongings.The presentation was well received by the Council and provided valuable insight into the challenges faced by families experiencing domestic violence, as well as meaningful ways the community can offer comfort, support, and hope.
The Grand Island Diocesan Council of Catholic Women North Platte Deanery scholarship winner is Aubrey Benson, a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church Parish in Valentine. Susan Johnson, CCW parish representative, presented the scholarship to Aubrey during Mass on Sunday, September 6. Aubrey excelled in high school academics and activities and was actively involved in parish religious education and ministries. She also participated in Catholic youth activities beyond her parish and demonstrated exemplary leadership abilities. Aubrey is now attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK). The Grand Island Diocesan Council of Catholic Women congratulates Aubrey on this well-deserved scholarship and wishes her continued success as she begins this new chapter of her education.
On September 14, 2026, OLOF CCW held its Welcome Back Gathering at 6 p.m. in the Social Hall. After a summer break, members came together for an evening of friendship, food, and a brief meeting. Special guest speaker Idalia Martinez, a parishioner, shared her inspiring journey of service to the parish. Idalia spoke about her experiences as a lector, altar server, Parish Pastoral Council member, and office volunteer, as well as her involvement with the Youth and Hispanic Ministries. It was a delightful evening filled with fellowship, laughter, and meaningful connections among the women of our parish. OLOF CCW looks forward to another year of faith, friendship, and service together.
The Chicago Archdiocese Council of Catholic Women, Vicariate I, celebrated the 11th Anniversary of the Golden Rose Awards on February 7, 2026. Bishop Timothy O'Malley of Vicariate I congratulated the girls representing 31 parishes and three high schools—St. Viator, Carmel, and Woodlands Academy. Each girl received a certificate, a silk rose, and a blessed rosary bracelet. Cadets from the District #214 Wheeling High School ROTC program proudly escorted the girls as they received their certificates. Vicariate I appreciates the parishes’ recognition of the Golden Rose concept, which encourages young girls to put their faith into action through service to their parishes. Frank Starshak photographed these special memories, capturing the joy and spirit of this meaningful celebration.
On September 5–6, 2026, OLOF CCW distributed Boxes of Joy after all four Masses that weekend. Parishioners were thrilled to pick up a box and fill it with items for children in need. The response was so wonderful that we ran out of boxes and are ordering more! Thank you to Cross Catholic Outreach for helping us bring joy and hope to children in need.
Members of the Greater Meriden Council of Catholic Women, along with members of the Legions of Mary, recently gathered to make rosaries in preparation for the Beatification of Archbishop Fulton Sheen, taking place Thursday, September 24, in St. Louis, Missouri. The Archbishop Fulton Sheen Foundation has invited Catholics to join the effort to create 75,000 World Mission Rosaries in honor of this special occasion. Under the direction of organizer and instructor Jackie LaRochell, the group has already made and sent 250 rosaries to Missouri—and they are continuing their beautiful work of prayer and service. Through their hands, hearts, and prayers, these women are helping share the power of the Rosary with people around the world. “We must pray, and not for ourselves, but for the world.” — Archbishop Fulton Sheen
Mommy & Me Cooking Class and Spirit of ’76 Birthday Party In celebration of America's 250th birthday, the St. Agnes Guild of the Notre Dame Council of Catholic Women hosted a Mommy & Me Cooking Class followed by a Spirit of ’76 Birthday Party on Saturday, July 11, at Notre Dame Church in Greeneville, Tennessee. Under the guidance of the parish's talented cake baker, children and their mothers learned how to make, frost, and decorate cupcakes. The beautifully decorated treats were then served during the afternoon birthday celebration honoring parishioners who were 76 years young and older. Each honoree received a light-up keepsake glass to commemorate the occasion. The celebration concluded with everyone singing "Happy Birthday," followed by festive party poppers that filled the room with colorful streamers, creating a joyful and patriotic ending to a memorable day of fellowship and fun.
The Council of Catholic Women in Alcoa, TN honored the fathers and priests of its parish on Father's Day, by thanking them for their dedication and service to their family and parish at the Saturday and Sunday's Masses, on June 20 & June 21, 2026. In addition, OLOF CCW contributed to the Seminarian/Vocations Fund and Retired Priests' Fund of Knoxville, TN in their honor. Happy Father's Day from OLOF CCW!