ST. MARTIN OF TOURS
CATHOLIC WOMEN'S LEAGUE
TERRACE BAY
The St. Martin of Tours council of the Catholic Women's League was formed in 1952. The first meeting was held on November 23 of that year. The first President was Mrs. Cavanaugh and the first Spiritual Director was Rev. J. Roenecke. The Council has continued to grow and 44 years later continues to be a very active part of St. Martin of Tours parish and the community as a whole.
The following poem, written by Rita McBride (1972) and Lillian Belliveau (1982) lists some of the past members and outlines some of the activities of our Council. We have continued on to the present time as a spiritually rooted organization serving in our Parish and community as much as we are able.
St. Martin's C.W.L. Nov. 1952 to 1972
On November 23rd 1952, sporting the colours of gold and blue,
Two ladies from Fort William, Madame Carroll and Green,
Arrived at St. Martin's to take part in a scene.
"We are here" they said " to fill your needs!!
Thus the beginning of our Catholic Women's League.
From that day forward I'm sure many can recall-
It has been a whirl of Presidents, prayers,bazaars and all.
We've had names like Cavanaugh, Todd, Semaniuk, Nicol, Boudreau,
Corrigan, Dashkcwytch, Helmink, & Ramsay to head up the show;
Remember the teaswith Reggie where hats were a must,
And Alma's Coronation Doll with all pomp and fuss.
The hauling of babies, buggies, diapers, dishes, foodstuffs and all, To put on a supper at the South Camp's Old Rec. Hall.
The day the Turkey a la king ran out.
The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes was proven without a doubt.
Onto the Fashion show amidst the puddles on the floor,
To the clothing drives we've held for the missions by the score. And now the Penny Auctions and I'm sure you'll agree,
That the proceeds of which will help our less fortunate countries
remain free.
We've attended conventions both at home and afar
Travelling by train or bus and even getting lost by car.
And now special thanks to our Spiritual Directors down the line,
Fathers Ronekie, Morris, Gallagher, Gvora, and Harris
Who gave much of their time,
To our present Director Father Greengrass -
Who never forgets us in each and every Mass.
Yes! Thank you too, God, from every one here,
For all our undertakings we know You are near.
The C.W.L. has been fun and rewarding through the smiles, prayers
and tears,
And, we hope to carry on well during the future years.
And we thank all of you for attending to-night
Because this 20th anniversary was planned for each and every one with great delight.
Rita McBride.
35.5 cm (h) x 21.5 cm (w)
