The Catholic Women’s League in Morley have celebrated their 30th anniversary at the end of 2016.
To commemorate the momentous occasion, a special Mass was celebrated at Infant Jesus Church, Morley, presided by Father Tadgh Tierney OCD, who paid tribute to CWL members highlighting their contribution to Morley Parish and their work across the Archdiocese.
The Mass was concelebrated by several priests from across Perth, including Fr Jean Noel Marie, Fr Michael Moore, Fr Antonio Scala, Fr Joe Pelle and Fr Laurence Murphy.
Seminarians from St Charles and Redemptoris Mater Seminaries were present for the occasion, with Robyn Hoffman from Personal Advocacy Service attending as guest speaker.
Ms Hoffman spoke of her involvement with Personal Advocacy which was established in 1989 to assist parents who were seeking ways to enrich the lives of their children with intellectual disabilities.
Ms Hoffman shared how being part of the Personal Advocacy Service has enriched the lives of both those with disabilities and the volunteers who provide their assistance. Ms Hoffman explained that both volunteers and those with disabilities have gained friendships and other benefits by taking part in the programs.
President of the Catholic Women’s League, Morley, Janet Rigg, exclaimed the celebrations were an honourable moment for all members, past and present.
Mrs Rigg has been involved with the CWL Morley for more than 25 years.
“Our general activities include our monthly prayer meetings and involvement with the state Catholic Women’s League projects such as pregnancy help,” she explained.
“We also do regular fundraising for the local seminaries (St Charles and Redemptoris Mater) and we always do our best to help in any way that we can with a variety of social justice issues.”
The Catholic Women’s League also assists at the Morley Parish.
“We have been good tea and coffee ladies” she laughs.
While Mrs Rigg explained has been overjoyed about CWL Morley celebrating their 30th anniversary, she admits it has been no easy task.
“Well it’s just the people that started like Joan Joyce, she started it with a group of ladies, and unfortunately most of them aren’t here anymore and we’ve had good figures but then people have either left or gone into homes”.
Mrs Rigg is hopeful for the future.
“We’re looking optimistic for the future.
“Society has changed a lot and younger people are busy working but we are battling to recruit.”
If you are interested in joining the Catholic Women’s League in Morley contact Infant Jesus Parish on 9276 8500 or via email on jjparish@carmelite.com.