ABMK Provincial Conventions

ABMK Provincial Convention

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June 5–6, 2026, marked the annual ABMK Provincial Convention, held in Whitecourt, Alberta, in the Diocese of Saint Paul. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with our Sisters from across Alberta and the Northwest Territories. More than 30 members from the Calgary Diocese attended, including five diocesan officers: Theresa, Kim, Kathleen, Ee Lynn, and Deanna.

Day One of the convention is what I call “fill your cup” day. We were treated to inspiring speakers throughout the day. We often describe the CWL as a grassroots organization, and that was clearly evident in Joanne Guthrie’s presentation. When her daughter and partner could no longer care for their three children, Joanne and her husband stepped in without hesitation to provide a loving home for their grandchildren. However, the financial demands of raising young children, along with the emotional strain, led them to seek assistance that was simply not available. Unlike children in foster care, children placed with family members often receive far less government involvement and support. In response, Joanne and her council initiated a resolution last year that was adopted in order to bring this issue to the attention of government and advocate for greater support for families in these circumstances. More information on this important topic is provided in Kim Walker’s report.

We were also fortunate to welcome Glenda Carson, National Vice President, who travelled all the way from Nova Scotia to attend our convention. A kinder person you will not meet. Glenda spoke about her own CWL journey and encouraged us to mentor and invite other women to join the League and take on leadership roles. She reminded us always to do so as servant leaders.

Ee Lynn Lee’s article expands further on her message

Day 1 – Called to Serve and Finding Leadership in the League

The National CWL theme, “Ignite Your Passion – Empower His Mission,” could not have been more aptly illustrated than through Glenda Carson’s keynote presentation on being Called to Serve and discovering leadership within the League.

Glenda began her reflection on leadership by posing two simple yet thought-provoking questions to attendees:

Who has been a leader in your life?
How has she been memorable to you?

She then invited us to consider the realities facing the League today. Like many organizations, the CWL is experiencing declining volunteerism, due in large part to post-pandemic fatigue. “Volunteer burnout” is not merely a popular expression—it is real. Many members return to their parishes with diminished energy and a reduced capacity to serve. Succession gaps within parish councils are becoming increasingly evident, attributable to aging membership and a reluctance among many to assume leadership roles.

Yet, amidst these challenges, Glenda offered a hopeful perspective: the CWL is not an organization in decline, but an organization in transition.

She identified several reasons women may feel called to step forward into leadership:
Attraction to the League’s values and mission;
Interest in a role that aligns with their gifts and skills;
A personal invitation from the council executive;
A sense of belonging and connection within the League; and
Concern for issues that are important to the CWL.

At the same time, Glenda helped us understand the common reasons members hesitate to accept leadership positions. These include feelings of inadequacy, fear of making mistakes, lack of time, uncertainty about expectations, concerns about acceptance (particularly following an unsuccessful election), disengagement, and a lack of understanding of organizational needs.

These factors often result in a common phenomenon within parish councils—the recycling of leaders. While long-serving leaders provide valuable experience, stability, and opportunities for mentorship, repeatedly relying on the same individuals can also lead to burnout, stagnation, and fewer opportunities for emerging leaders. Balance, therefore, is essential.

Glenda reminded us that leadership resides within everyone. Every role matters, and councils should make greater use of subcommittees and project teams, offering smaller responsibilities that allow members to contribute meaningfully. A leader should be defined not by the position she holds, but by her willingness to share her gifts.

One of the most effective ways to cultivate leaders is through personal invitation. Igniting passion in others is one of the highest expressions of servant leadership. We should identify potential leaders early, take the initiative to encourage them, invite them to shadow activities, and gradually share responsibilities. Leadership is a journey—not a commitment that must be embraced all at once.

We were reminded of what makes CWL leadership distinctive. As a volunteer, grassroots organization rooted in Catholic social teaching, service is not simply an activity—it is a mission. We are called to practise servant leadership, placing the needs of others before our own.

Trust is essential to this mission. Habits that build trust include:
• Listening actively before deciding;
• Following through on commitments;
• Recognizing and celebrating contributions;
• Inviting dissent rather than silencing it; and
• Sharing information openly and promptly.

To prevent fatigue and burnout, councils should adopt practices that both protect and empower their members. Rather than asking, “How can I get this done?” we should ask, “How can we do this together?” Sharing responsibility lightens the burden borne by any one individual. Glenda gently reminded us that rest is not retreat—it is faithfulness. Burnout is a governance issue, and knowing when to ask for help is itself an act of leadership.

Empowerment, especially when partnered with trust, becomes a powerful instrument for growth and renewal.

Glenda also led us in understanding leadership amid conflict and challenges. Conflict, she reminded us, is not a failure of leadership but an invitation to lead. Disagreements are inevitable; what matters is how we respond to them. She advocated for charitable directness—addressing issues clearly, yet without cruelty or avoidance. Above all, we should pray before acting. Prayer and discernment must remain our foremost tools.

For those discerning a call to leadership, Glenda encouraged us to:
• Pray and reflect;
• Recognize our gifts;
• Consider the needs around us;
• Be willing to learn and grow;
• Start where we are;
• Lead through service; and
• Trust God's guidance.

Leadership, she emphasized, is not about having all the answers. Rather, it is about responding generously to God's invitation to serve. It is a shared journey, rooted in faith and service, requiring individual discernment from each member.

The League offers many resources to support women in their leadership journey, including the D2L Brightspace courses, the R3 to 1, Unity! Task Force—which assists councils in recruiting, retaining, and regaining members—and the CWL Welcome Program.

Glenda concluded her inspiring presentation with a prayer: Lord, set us ablaze with love for You and for those entrusted to our care. Make us servants first, leaders always, and women of unshakable hope.

Day 2 – From Member to Mission

On Day 2, Glenda shared a candid account of her own journey in the League—from member to mission—and how she discovered her place within the CWL.

With humour and authenticity, she recounted her all-too-familiar initiation into the League: being quickly recruited into an officer position on her parish council. What began as a willingness to help eventually blossomed into a deeper commitment to service.

Her passion for resolutions led her to serve as Social Justice Chair on her Diocesan council. Through her own experience, she emphasized the importance of discerning what truly sparks one's interest and leaning into the work that brings joy and purpose.

Each member possesses unique gifts and passions. We are a mosaic, and that diversity is one of our greatest strengths. By embracing our differences and sharing our talents, we become stronger together.

Glenda encouraged us not to be afraid to step forward, even when we do not know exactly where the journey will lead. Often, it is through saying “yes” and trusting God that we discover where we are truly meant to serve.

Finally, Day One concluded with an excellent talk by Joanne Chiasson of Grande Prairie on “Stepping Boldly into the Life God Designed for You.” Every two years, when we receive the new national theme, I am always interested to hear how it resonates with other CWL Sisters and how we too can be inspired. Hearing Joanne reflect on “Ignite Your Passion, Empower His Mission” by reminding us who we are and whose we are was truly galvanizing.

Some might find Day Two less exciting, but it is also where the League shines in its “boots on the ground” work. When we lobby government, our strong governance and our ability to debate and vote on matters are important. They demonstrate that we are an organization that takes issues seriously and that, when we come together in support of an issue, it has been thoughtfully considered at every level. To that end, all 10 instructed votes passed, and our new provincial president will vote accordingly on behalf of ABMK in Halifax in August. Calgary had voted against the first amendment, which centres on changing the CWL crest. However, the other four dioceses voted in favour, so it will be carried forward. All other amendments were adopted unanimously.

The other major piece of business was the election of new provincial officers. Calgary is well represented by our new ABMK president, Jan Myhre; our new secretary, Renee Spohn; and our new chair of service, Janet MacPhee. Our spiritual advisor, His Excellency Bishop Gary Franken of Saint Paul, will continue in his role for the next two years. We are very blessed to have him.

Day Two was not all business. We also celebrated two exciting honours bestowed upon our diocese. First, Calgary won two of the three Walter Krewski Awards. Congratulations to St. Joseph’s Parish, which received recognition for the greatest percentage increase in membership, with 58% growth in 2025. Congratulations as well to St. Mary’s Cathedral, which won the award for the highest number of new members in 2025.

The second highlight was the Elsie Yannick Award, a prestigious honour presented by the ABMK Provincial Council. It is awarded to a member who has demonstrated leadership and service in response to needs within a parish or community. It is exciting to announce that Denise Coutts from St. Peter’s is this year’s deserving recipient. Many know Denise from the Catch the Fire workshop, and this recognition is well deserved.

I had the honour of representing the Calgary Diocese and presenting our report. You can read it below. Thank you for trusting me with this responsibility. Next year’s convention will be held in Yellowknife on June 4–5. What a wonderful opportunity to bring the family for a vacation while also being inspired by a weekend of sisterhood.

For Him through her,
Theresa Duncan, Calgary CWL Diocesan President

403-816-9776 (call or text)

Save the Dates:
June 20 – St. Mary’s Cathedral Formation Session & 15 th Anniversary https://calgarycwl.ca/events#year=2026&month=6&day=1&view=month
July 8 – St. Mary’s University Stampede BreakFEST https://stmu.ca/event/marys- stampede-breakfest/
August 9-12 – CWL National Convention https://www.cwl.ca/halifax-2026/
September 26 - Fall Meeting at St. Mary’s in Brooks
November 2, 9, 16 – Zoom mini Bible Studies
January 30 – Spiritual Retreat (NW Calgary, location tbd)

2026 Report to ABMK Convention

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79th Annual ABMK Provincial Convention
CALGARY DIOCESE REPORT
Theresa Duncan

Madam President:

The Calgary Diocese ended 2025 with 3117 members across 46 active councils. To date, 2026 membership shows similar year-over-year levels. We have had some remarkably high moments. In the past year, we celebrated two more councils meeting the milestone of 100 years; St. Francis de Sales in High River and Holy Cross in Fort Mcleod. In Lethbridge, our newest council, All Saints, was created by the amalgamation of Our Lady of the Assumption and St. Basil’s. This was a testament to listening to the Holy Spirit and discerning His will for these two long-standing councils. However, we also experienced some sad moments. After 99 years as a council, St. Rita’s in Rockyford made the difficult decision to disband as an aging population, not just at the council level but in the parish and the community as well, impacted their ability to continue. We pray for our councils to stay active, vital and relevant. It is the commitment of the Diocesan Council to support our parishes in both their successes and their challenges, in whatever manner that is asked for.

At the request of our members, the Diocesan Council is committed to creating opportunities for our Sisters to grow in their faith. To that end, we organized two Spiritual Retreats; one in Calgary in January on Responding to the Universal Call to Holiness and one in Lethbridge in May focused on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. For 3 Mondays in November, we hosted Women of the Bible zoom bible studies where we had women as far away as Newfoundland join us. And last month, the keynote speaker at the Diocesan Convention was Leah Perrault who was inspirational and encouraging.

An area of focus and collaboration now and into the future is our partnership with St. Mary’s University. This small campus in the South of Calgary has the vision “to be the preeminent Catholic University in Canada, known as a centre of academic excellence providing a vibrant and engaged student experience that prepares authentic leaders committed to the service of others”.

Our relationship with the University goes back nearly 30 years. Thanks to the vision and generosity of past CWL sisters, St. Mary’s now has a fully funded endowment for the CWL Chair in Catholic Studies which exists to promote excellence in Catholic Studies through teaching, research, and service, all grounded in the Catholic intellectual and spiritual tradition.

I truly believe this relationship is a natural fit with our three pillars of Faith, Service, and Social Justice. We have a heart for young people. We want them to have access to a high-quality institution that teaches and forms students through a Catholic worldview. As CWL members, we can serve them, advocate for them, and—most Internal importantly—pray for them. We know that we are created in the image & likeness of God and that all life has dignity. But not everyone sees life this way and this is particularly true for young people. They are constantly being bombarded with ideas that contravene this life-affirming message. Even our own children who we know were raised in the faith struggle with this. It is important to have a university that worries not only about what is taught but how it is taught. And we want this for our future teachers and health care providers and business people and politicians; we want them to be equipped in their chosen careers by first receiving an education steeped in the Catholic worldview.

And so we have decided to continue this ongoing relationship in both the shorter and longer terms. At our recent Convention, we passed a motion for councils and individuals to voluntarily contribute $20,000 to create a self-funding bursary endowment by May 1, 2027. When matched by an anonymous donor, this will create a $1,600/year bursary to be awarded yearly to a worthy recipient. The Diocesan Council moved to contribute $1000 from the Education Fund to initiate the fundraising.

Looking to the future, the University is committed to growing its student population and the number of programs offered. This requires a multi-year, dedicated capital campaign. Friends of the University are being asked to participate and contribute to its success. The CWL has been asked to sit on the Campaign Cabinet and the role of this Cabinet is to be a conduit of the Campaign’s plans and status and also to help identify sources of potential donors.

This campaign has at least 3 phases. Phase 1 is $15 million and is well underway to being fully funded. It will finance a “sprung structure” dome to serve as a gymnasium and to refurbish the current Father Lacombe Centre into a Student Residence, including a cafeteria, meeting spaces and a chapel.

Phases II and III are in development and will be communicated as Phase I proceeds. There is an opportunity for the CWL to be involved in these exciting developments and we are committed to keeping our Provincial and National counterparts appraised of the details.

The Holy Spirit is active and thriving in the Calgary Diocese. We endeavor to be attuned to His promptings and open to His will. And we are excited to see what will manifest as a result.

This concludes my report.
Theresa Duncan
Calgary Diocesan President

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Alberta Mackenzie Voting delegates are the five diocesan¹ presidents (or designates).

Accredited delegates include:
- all provincial officers
- two from each diocesan CWL council
- one from each parish CWL council
- Honorary Life members
- Life members

Voting delegates may vote on all motions. Accredited delegates may vote on all motions EXCEPT the election of officers, amendments to the Constitution & Bylaws, and increase in per capita fees (C&B 2013). Councils are encouraged to send all their designated delegates to ensure the council is adequately represented at the Provincial Convention.

¹ The five Diocesan Councils are

Calgary,
Edmonton,
Grouard-McLennan,
Mackenzie – Fort Smith,
St Paul.

Each Diocesan Council is entitled to send one Voting delegate (President or designate) plus two Accredited delegates (elected officers) in an official capacity to represent the council at provincial conventions.

Each Parish Council is entitled to send one Accredited Delegate (elected officer or another member).

Provincial Officers, Honorary Life Members and Life Members holding a membership in a council in Alberta Mackenzie also have accredited status. Other members are welcome as regular CWL member attendees.

**NOTE: Voting and accredited delegates are required to submit a Credential Form with their Registration (rec'd by email or post).