NCCW AFFILIATE HAPPENINGS

Our Lady of the Ozarks PCCW hosted a Women’s Day of Reflection on Saturday, May 9, featuring Bishop Emeritus John Liebrecht and Lynn Melendez, Director of Evangelization, Family and Youth Ministries for the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. Bishop Liebrecht spoke on St. John Paul II’s letter to women, Mulieris Dignitatem – The Dignity and Vocation of Women, a fitting topic for Mother’s Day weekend. The letter reminds us that “women have an intrinsic dignity and a specific mission to inject love into the world.” We need only look to our Blessed Mother, Mary, to see dignity in action. The day was made even more special with lunch served by the Knights of Columbus (Council 7680). Following lunch, Lynn Melendez spoke on the topic, “I Am Not Equipped,” offering a unique reflection on Mark’s Gospel, Chapter 6, the Feeding of the 5,000. As a special treat, Tony Melendez — singer, songwriter, inspirational speaker, and Lynn’s husband — joined us and shared his beautiful music. Reflecting on his many blessings, he encouraged us to consider how God is working in our daily lives and to recognize the many blessings He bestows upon us each day.

On April 19, 2026, Our Lady of Fatima CCW awarded two scholarships; one to Evan Krintz and one to Lual G. Lual. Both are active members of OLOF who are graduating this year from high school and are continuing their education. To apply, they had to have at least a 3.0 GPA and submit an essay about their faith, their personal involvement in OLOF, and why they are interested in this scholarship. OLOF CCW VP, Valerie Doolittle awarded the scholarships.

On Saturday April 18th, women from the Fall River Diocesan Council of Catholic Women gathered for their meeting.  During the meeting, they celebrated the National Council of Catholic Women’s 106th Birthday.  We rejoice in celebrating the mission of NCCW.  

On April 13, 2026, Our Lady of Fatima CCW held a General Meeting, featuring Joan Speck with the OLOF Quilters and Crafters Group, as their guest speaker. They meet twice monthly to make quilts, pocket quilts and shawls with lots of love and prayers for those in need. Each item is blessed and prayed over prior to giving it to the recipient. This is a free service they provide for our community.

On February 28th, the Pueblo Diocesan Council of Catholic Women hosted a beautiful and spiritually enriching Lenten Retreat at the Shrine of St. Thérèse. The day began with a warm and welcoming continental breakfast at 8:45 a.m., offering time for fellowship and connection among the approximately 65 women in attendance. Centered on the theme “In His Steps—Lent is not just about giving something up, but about giving of ourselves to God,” the retreat invited participants into deeper reflection and renewal. Guest speaker Deacon Ed Riccillo delivered an inspiring message, encouraging all to walk more closely with Christ through prayer, sacrifice, and acts of love. The retreat flowed gracefully from reflection to shared prayer and concluded with a delightful lunch, leaving all who attended feeling nourished both spiritually and physically. It was truly enjoyed by all. “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” — Luke 9:23

The Pueblo District Council of Catholic Women hosted a lovely Faithful Friendship Tea on March 21 at 11:00 a.m., a special time set aside to gather in fellowship, faith, and gratitude for the meaningful friendships God places in our lives. The atmosphere was joyful and welcoming, with many women wearing beautiful hats and dresses, adding a charming touch to the tea party. Guests enjoyed an abundance of finger foods and delicious desserts, but most of all, they cherished the opportunity to spend time together, sharing laughter, stories, and faith. It was a truly uplifting occasion, enjoyed by all who attended.

St. Ignatius of Antioch partners and volunteers joined Room in the Inn to feed both the body and soul, offering a place where the unhoused men can be served and waited upon, receive hospitality and experience community. We were more than honored to serve the general and residential populations of 240 men with a homemade “Meat Loaf Luncheon meal” that included corn, cream potatoes with gravy, green beans, sweet roll, fresh squeeze lemonade and our famous banana pudding.

The St. Michael’s Council of Catholic Women (CCW) opened their arms and time to feed the Grand Prairie Homeless on February 21, 2026, as part of our outreach program.  We prepared 100 hot meals, meatballs and pasta, and over 200 sandwiches including their snacks, and water bottles for their weekend meals.  To identify the sandwiches from the hot meals, we provided a special plastic bag with scriptures which the homeless appreciated very much that lifted their spirit.  We appreciated the help from our husbands and families as we worked together for this special outreach and care to our community.  We were blessed to serve others. Hebrews 13:16 “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

The Springfield-IL Diocesan Council of Catholic Women held a board meeting on Feb 12th, at the Catholic Pastoral Center. The ladies wore red to celebrate St Valentine and Women’s Heart Month. Teresa Tomeo from EWTN will be the guest speaker for the SDCCW 97th Annual Convention, September 3rd, 2026 in Quincy, IL.