ROCKFORD—The annual Catholic Women’s League Mass for Peace and September luncheon began at 10 a.m. on Sept. 14 at Holy Family Church.

 

The Mass was celebrated this year by Msgr. Gerald Kobbeman, who reflected in his homily about the “amazing, tremendous faith” given to Catholics. He noted the Catholic faith’s Old Testament foundations found in the first reading of the day for the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. He spoke of how Jesus became human “that we might have everlasting life” and that the Gates of Heaven, closed at the moment of Original Sin of Adam and Eve, then were opened after Jesus’ death on the cross.

 

“We live in a much different world now,” Msgr. Kobbeman said, noting in particular the random acts of violence reported around the country. He quoted a 21-year-old young man in identifying the reason for such violence as being “People are losing their sense of respect for life” and “People don’t take responsibility for their actions.”

 

“So, ladies,” he said to the gathering, “more so than ever, we must be strong in our faith, be committed to our faith, and willing to talk about our faith.”

 

The Mass for Peace was followed by the installation of the new officers for the CWL. Each expressed her desire to fulfill her role, and each was placed under the protection and help of the Blessed Mother under Marian titles.

 

The new officers are: Jacki Giacone, president, of St. Rita Parish; Marilyn Wholey, recording secretary, of Holy Family Parish; and Mary Kay Tapp, treasurer, of St. Peter Parish in South Beloit. A luncheon at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club followed the Mass.

 

The Catholic Women’s League is an organization begun in 1909 to assist newly-settled immigrants to the U.S. It was formed at the request of the Diocese of Rockford’s first bishop, Bishop Peter J. Muldoon. He wanted a women’s league that would be engaged in religious and civic works.

 

The league has evolved within that original vision, now assisting Catholic Charities’ work as well as the work of other service organizations and individuals. 

 

Among CWL projects has been an annual blanket workshop where over 100 members gather for a day of prayer, fellowship, and lots of cutting and tying fleece blankets to warm hearts and bodies of many in need of wintertime warmth. 

 

The CWL has more than 18 committees that specialize in various kinds of service to others.