The Houlton Council of Catholic Women met for the final meeting of the season Monday, June 3, in the parish center at St. Mary of the Visitation Church.
Moderator Rev. David Raymond was in attendance and President Janet Barker called on him for the blessing before the meal. The tables were decorated with holy statues and pictures. We said the traditional prayers and Mary Grant gave a financial report. The Seminarian basket was available for those who wanted to donate to their cause. Jane Stile gave the secretary’s report.
Janet thanked all those who helped with meetings through the year especially the May meeting and those who packed up after the banquet plans were changed. The persons attending that meeting went to the Elm Tree Diner for a meal and conversation.
The Maine Diocesan Council of Catholic Women meeting on July 20 will be rescheduled. A final date will be posted and the members will be notified. Other topics discussed were the annual rummage sale and the subject of tables.
I am still accepting cancelled stamps. If you have any, you can drop them off at my residence at 73 Military St., Apartment 108, but please call first. The stamps are sent to the missionaries for their use. Please contact Lois for needed correspondence over the summer.
One of the decisions to be made by Council is whether to have a split schedule. The next meeting will be September 9, Mass will be celebrated at 6 p.m. followed by a potluck supper and meeting. The Mass will be said for both living and deceased members.
We were asked by President Janet to consider the benefits of HCCW membership; she read a list from 2008 including many facts.
Prayer intentions were gathered and then Jane Stile presented Janet with a gift as outgoing president. Janet in turn presented each officer with a potted plant—Jane Mitchell, vice president, Mary Grant, treasurer, Jane Stile, recording secretary, Lois Downing, publicity and corresponding secretary.
Lois Downing installed new president Lynette Dobbs. Lynette spoke to the members saying she is very optimistic; she feels women are the backbone of the church. Fr. Dave is pleased that Lynette has accepted the presidency, as well as the entire slate of officers. Fr. Dave said, ‘’Even though we are small in numbers we can do great things and be effective.’’
Several of the ladies helped with refreshments following the meeting.
