CHAPTER IV PARISH ORGANIZATIONS AND MINISTRIES The Catholic Women 's League of St. Ann 's Parish dates back to the year 1922-23. In the late 1930's, the League ceased being operative in the parish due to a lack of support by Father Dalton. A number of years elapsed before St. Ann 's C.W.L . was re-orga¬ nized. It was not until 1961 that Father Pendergast took steps to once again organize a Catholic Women 's League in the parish. Mrs. Yvonne Gallant had the honour of being elected the first President, Mrs. Yvonne Larkin, Vice-President and Mrs. Elsa Myers , Secretary - Treasurer . Membership dues were fifty cents and meetings were held on the first Sunday of the month. A short time later, Mrs. James Pendergast , mother of Father Art, vis¬ ited the Council and gave a very inspiring talk on the aims and objectives of the C.W.L . and told of the many benefits that could be realized if all members worked together under the motto of the C.W.L . - "For and Canada ". The official organization of the Council took place in July of the same year under the direction of Rev. George MacCormack , Provincial Director of the League, who once again outlined to the twenty-nine ladies present, the many spiritual benefits available to members of the C.W.L. A certificate of organization for the sum of $2.00 was received. The primary reason for the existence of the Catholic Women 's League is the spiritual growth of its members and the promotion of spiri¬ tual life in the parish. In order to achieve this, spiritual formation is a part of each meeting, members study and discuss articles pertaining to the Catholic faith, attend workshops and conventions, listen to speakers, recite the rosary and actively participate in all spiritual activities in the parish. Masses are offered for living and deceased members. Newly mar¬ ried couples are presented with a crucifix. First communicants and Confirmants are remembered in a special way, as are high school gradu¬ ates and newborn babies. Rosaries are recited for special intentions and intercessory prayers for vocations and the rights of the unborn are 62