ROCKFORD—“How impressive it is,” said Bishop David  Malloy, commenting on the “sea of faces” and the enthusiasm of the roomful of women attending the 2014 LaPromesse luncheon on Sept. 17.

Before blessing the meal, the bishop spoke of the importance of participation, and of “being there … supporting each other … (which is) so much a part of the faith.” He also called “impressive” the list of all the service activities accomplished by the Catholic Women’s League in the past year, and noted that “This is a way of living our faith.”

The annual LaPromesse luncheon raises funds in support of the CWL’s many activities. This year’s organizers brought some new activities into the mix.

In addition to the always-popular silent auction were “Raffle Baskets” featuring several prizes composed of gift certificates (like those found in the ‘Never Cook Again’ basket of restaurant certificates) and/or other items (such as an ‘Apple Basket’ featuring a share of Apple stock and an Apple Macbook Air computer). Women purchased raffle tickets and placed them in the drawing baskets for the prize(s) of their choice. Winners were drawn at the end of the event along with the winners of a money prize raffle.

In keeping with the luncheon theme, “Music from the Heart,” was entertainment by Patte Armato Lund, a Rockford native who sang in many Chicago venues and who is again in Rockford, performing in the state line area and in St. Louis. Her show included regular tunes and several with specialized, witty lyrics on everything from hot flashes and Walmart, to memories lost and a longing for butter and chocolate.

The Catholic Women’s League has served the Church and the community for more than 100 years. For more information about the League, contact membership chairs: Jody Deery, 815/633-0735 or Jacque Bolger, 815/282-4933.