A unique opportunity presents itself for the women of our parish and for the St. Catherine of Siena Women’s Club Ministry. As you know, since the founding of our parish in 1974 many dedicated and devoted women have belonged to—and led—this organization which is an integral part of our parish, historically and for our parish’s future. The Women’s Club has hosted events meant to deepen the collective faith of our parish, social and cultural gatherings that built community as well as many work projects that have brought beauty and vibrancy to our parish community. We are blessed to count them among our leaders.

And their leadership is needed even more today. In fact, I am asking the women of our parish—of all ages and backgrounds—to consider helping reimagine the Women’s Club here at St. Catherine of Siena. Why do I say “reimagine” the Women’s Club?

Well, times have changed—cultural, religious and social—for the country, the Church, our parish and our families. And quite honestly, every organization from time-to-time needs to reassess not its beliefs but perhaps the language and methods by which they operate and carry out their mission. For the Church at large, social media is a perfect example, as we navigate new ways to attempt to meet millennials and beyond with the Good News of the Gospels. This is an opportunity for the Women’s Club to see how it can differently connect with women who work outside the family, and who have less time and more responsibility (and stress) which might change how they allocate their “free” time. So that begs the question, “what are their interests today and what kind of time are they able to commit to ‘outside’ activities that can deepen their spiritual life, offer them joy, and enable them to bring the faith to life in the daily activities of family and work?”

Perhaps it includes social justice issues, unique social events that at times focus on them, at times focusing on others (their families or neighbors), spiritual opportunities that are less than a “retreat” and more than a “book club.” At a time when Catholic women's voices and actions are needed and valued, the Women's Club can be that voice for issues that relate to family, the environment, our home life, work and communi-ty. Perhaps even the structure of the organization itself—how it is run—can be re-thought. The outgoing leadership team of the Women’s Club have served the parish well and I know, like me, they’d love to hear your input and ideas on the future successes and hope for the future of the Women’s Club.

If you are interested in being part of this great adventure, please contact me at the parish office and I will be happy to connect us all for the great success that lies ahead. Thanks to the Women’s Clubs of the past, our parish has both a great track record and of greater import, many great shoulders upon which to build a wonderful and exciting future for you and this parish. Look forward to hearing from you (658 1642).