THE LONE STAR MESSENGER

Transcription

1 THE LONE STAR MESSENGER Newsletter of the Texas State Court Catholic Daughters of the Americas December 2009 Edition MESSAGE FROM THE STATE REGENT My Dear CDA Sisters, Here we are another year almost behind us and the birth of Our Savior Jesus Christ quickly approaching. Each year the Christmas decorations appear earlier and earlier in the stores. They seem to go up the day after Halloween. What about Thanksgiving? Doesn t anyone care to give thanks anymore for what we already have? Everyone gets so excited about the bargains to be had and the money to be saved with early bird shopping and black Friday. Wouldn t it be wonderful if everyone could get that excited so early about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ? Wouldn t it be wonderful if everyone lined up in front of the church at four a.m. instead of the stores? Recently, I was driving back home from Corpus Christi after the institution of a new court. I noticed a sign with the saying Happy Holidays from the King, while passing through Refugio. The message was not on a church sign and certainly not meant to be from the King of Glory. It was on the marquis of the local Burger King. I actually took offense. It seemed derogatory and that they were making a mockery of the reason for the season. Christmas is a time of giving; however, through all of the commercialism, we need to remember what we have already been given the gift of Jesus Christ. Catholic Daughters do not need a season to give. Catholic Daughters give so much throughout the year that it is like Christmas all the time. We give with our minds, our hands, our prayers, and our hearts. Jesus lives in each of us. Go out in this joyous season and share the gift of Jesus with everyone. Sheila Martinka 1 Texas State Officers Sheila Martinka State Regent Space Center Blvd Houston, TX smartinka@earthlink.net Carolyn Malik First Vice State Regent P.O. Box 243 Shiner, TX cdacarol@sbcglobal.net Peggy Rosales Second Vice State Regent 8003 Doe Meadow Dr. Austin, TX prosales@austin.rr.com Eve Trevino State Secretary 1102 Delta Drive Corpus Christi, TX evetrevino@yahoo.com Minnie Rodgers State Treasurer 2310 Brock Mission, TX minnivica@sbcglobal.net Reverend Donald Ruppert State Chaplain P.O. Box 1325 East Bernard, TX FatherRuppertCDA@hughes.net Carolyn Bachmann Immediate Past State Regent FM 172 Scotland, TX carolyn1349@msn.com State Website

2 Catholic Daughters of the Americas Texas State Court Mission Statement Catholic Daughters of the Americas strive to embrace the principle of faith working through love in the promotion of justice, equality, and the advancement of human rights and human dignity for all. State Mission Statement The members of the Texas State Court love Christ and His Church and are dedicated to leading others to Christ and to His service through the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Goals To continue to offer opportunities for spiritual growth for all Catholic women through The Catholic Daughters of the Americas through prayer services and retreats To introduce women s health issues and the importance to take care of ourselves and each other physically, mentally, and spiritually To assist/comfort our CDA sisters in their times of need, sickness, sorrow, and share in the laughter of their joy and happiness To encourage courts to seek out a variety of activities so that some will include family involvement and spark interest for ALL generations of Catholic Daughters To continue to increase in membership by retaining our current members and seek areas for new courts including the areas of campus courts To have the courage to recognize the leadership abilities in others and ourselves To work with our brother Knights of Columbus on a combined state project To initiate the process for a 3 rd Habitat Build in Texas Activities Offer the services of our State Spiritual Enhancement Chairman, State Chaplain, and JCDA State Chaplain for multi-district retreats and/or spiritual talks Introduce a new state chairman ship State Activities Chairman to help members coordinate events in their areas to promote health and family involvement Introduce a new state chairmanship State Chairman for Campus Courts to assist those DDs with campus courts and encourage involvement and interaction with local CDA courts and the campus courts Continue to offer court incentives for increasing membership Continue to recognize those members with the St. Bernadine of Siena Award for Court Development Continue to provide support through our CDA Out Reach Program for courts who are struggling and to offer structure for newly instituted courts Provide leadership workshops to develop and encourage our future CDA leaders Begin a 3 rd Habitat Build in Texas during this term Know that we are women of God and show our charity through our actions and our words as we are called to Do Whatever He Tells You John 2:5 THE LONE STAR MESSENGER is a quarterly publication of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Texas State Court. It is published in September, December, March, and June. It is also posted on our website. With each issue, several newsletters are returned as undeliverable. Please keep us up to date regarding your address. Courts or individuals may purchase a subscription to the newsletter for $10 annually. Teresa Maltbia, State Newsletter Editor 6723 Forest Mews Court Houston, TX webadmin@texascda.org 2

3 A Message from Father Don Ruppert State Chaplain My Dear Catholic Daughters, December 25 th should mark the beginning of our Christmas celebration, not the end. As soon as the Thanksgiving turkey is off the table and in the refrigerator, some family members are hustling off to the first Christmas party of the season. Work places, schools, civic organizations, and even church groups have parties throughout the season of Advent: days when we should be preparing for Christmas, not celebrating it. My parents and grandparents put a lot of emphasis on decorating for Christmas. Since live trees, greenery, and berries were used, we didn t begin decorating until several days before the celebration of Christ s birth. I still look forward to decorating a tree each December. Like most others, my tree is artificial, but the nostalgic memories of Christmases past are very much alive. Deceased family members are spiritually present when I remember the laughter, love, and the smells of traditional foods and goodies coming from the kitchen. I think we better understand the Church s teaching regarding the Communion of Saints with the faithful on earth when sharing past memories make our departed loved ones part of our Christmas celebration. Grandma Ruppert is present each time I bite into a molasses cookie and Grandma Friedel is there when I eat a date pinwheel made from their recipes. My dad invisibly stands next to me as I try to imitate the perfection with which he always put lights on the Christmas tree. I see mother sitting at the kitchen table shelling pecans for baking cookies and making candy. My brother is outside putting lights around the living room window to frame the Christmas tree. The list could continue but space is limited. Liturgically Advent is the time we remember God s glory revealed through the birth of Jesus and the promise that He will come again. As family, we can remember God s goodness revealed through the care and kindness of our loved ones, past and present. Yes, times have changed. Christmas is so commercialized by vendors and the media. Don t lose sight of the TRUE meaning of the season: Jesus was born and came to be our savior. Now that s something to celebrate! It s the unity He preached and the charity He showed to all that we Catholic Daughters strive to imitate in our daily lives. We sing about the twelve days of Christmas: Why not celebrate them? I wish you and your families a most blessed and happy holiday season. Enjoy the memories. May God bless you abundantly throughout the coming year. Sincerely yours in Christ, Father Don Ruppert 3

4 Texas State Court State Chaplain State Officers State Chairmen Court Officers Members As we come to another year s closing, we need to take time to thank God for His many blessings and to say thanks to all of you who have done so much for the Catholic Daughters of the Americas in your own special way. We are now approaching the holy season of Advent in anticipation of the birth of Christ. Let us reflect upon our personal lives so that we may improve our own Christian life and look towards the New Year with renewed hope. In addition to your personal prayers, please remember our Pope, bishops, priests, deacons, women religious, those serving in the military, the unborn, homeless and hungry. May your holiday season be blessed with the true meaning of Christmas. Duchess Collins, National Director 4

5 WANTED: CDA ANGELS FOR GOD Court Development Carolyn Malik, First Vice State Regent State Court Development/Membership Chairman I am sure that by now, you are in full swing with the new CDA year. Monthly meetings have resumed and projects are being worked on. I encourage you to include all your membership in your programs this term and make them feel welcome. It is just as important to retain existing members as it is to gain new members. The key to retaining members is making certain that all are involved in the programs of the local courts of the Catholic Daughters. Be considerate to all members and schedule your meetings to include all classes and age groups. Invite new members to be a part of a program or ask them to bring refreshments to a meeting. Make them feel welcome and needed by our organization. To ensure the longevity of CDA, consider organizing a junior court. This in turn will bring in young mothers to our organization. Wanted: CDA Angels for God How do we gain more angels to do God s work here on earth? WE MUST INVITE OUR FRIENDS, OUR RELATIVES, OUR NEIGHBORS, OUR CO-WORKERS, THE LADY AT THE CONVENIENCE STORE, GROCERY STORE AND DRY GOODS STORES TO JOIN THE CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAS And the wives of the Knights of Columbus members as well. After all, we are the Knights First Auxiliary inasmuch as we were founded by the Knights of Columbus in During this term, I challenge each of you to ask just one person and by 2011, we will have doubled our membership. Above all, we must be shining examples of Christian womanhood so everyone will want to be a part of this great organization. We must be women of Unity and Charity as our motto states and be true dedicated servants to Our Lord and His Mother as we continue our journey here on earth. As the deacon said at the 50 th anniversary Mass for Court Madonna #1817 in Dallas, we are the role models for our youth of today and for all women on the earth. We were also highly praised for all our good works by Rev. Clair at St. Luke Catholic Church in Irving during the 40 th anniversary celebration for Court Our Lady of the Skyways #2006. So, ladies, let us continue to act in Unity and Charity within and outside our courts so we can be those shining examples to others. CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEWEST COURT IN TEXAS COURT Our Lady of the Hill Country #2626, Blanco/Johnson City, Texas instituted with 32 members on October 4, Regent is Chrystina Power. On November 22, 2009, we will institute another new court at St. Peter s Catholic Church, Calallen, Texas. In the works is a campus court at University of North Texas/Texas Women s University, Denton, Texas. Please pray for the success of these new courts in Texas. I wish for you and your families a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving, remembering and thanking God for everything he gives us each day, for our health, our happiness and wellbeing. And may the spirit of the Christmas season be with you all. Remember to Keep Christ in Christmas. I wish all a Blessed Happy and prosperous New Year. We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can only fly by embracing one another. Luciano de Crescenz Quarterly Prayer Intentions The following are the prayer intentions for the new quarter. Please share them with your courts. The intentions can be remembered in many ways such as in the opening or closing prayer of your meetings, at corporate communions, by your prayer ministry, and hopefully by each individual member in her daily prayers. Jesus tells us in Matthew 21:22 Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive. Let us place our trust in Him as we lift up the following intentions: That as sisters in Christ, we will use our time, talent, treasure, words, smiles, and actions to truly help others experience God s joy, love, and peace this Christmas season. That our service men and women will be surrounded and sustained by God s love and protection, and that their families will be supported and uplifted by a loving and prayerful community. 5

6 Leadership Peggy Rosales, Second Vice State Regent Leadership who is it going to be? It s getting close to obtaining a new nominating committee these ladies will be searching for the next term s leaders. It may be time to look for new faces and try to keep from playing the Shuffle Game where the same ladies serve as officers, but in different positions. The nominating committee will be looking for five (5) women who will open their hearts and minds to the idea of being on a 5 MEMBER TEAM that will lead their court through the next two year term of Court Regents, please remember to give the nominating committee a complete and updated roster of your court. This will help them with their charge of coming up with a slate of officers for your court. Webster says a leader is: a person or thing that leads a guiding or directing head, as of an army, movement, or political group A true leader is one who: Seeks to serve others rather than dominate them Shows initiative when tempted to do nothing Respects the personality and freedom of others Has a desire to promote the interest of all I have heard that one member responded, I think that we all should take our turn as an officer of the court. When called by the Chairman of the nominating committee. I thank this person for coming forward when called; but perhaps it wasn t just the chairman calling but the Holy Spirit calling to them that they were needed and that He would be there at all times for listening and answering the call for help. We should trust in the Lord and Do Whatever He Tells You. John 2:5 District Deputies, it is never too early to start scheduling your Officer Training! Please get in touch with me to schedule your officer training. Please have several dates to choose from there are several districts that have scheduled already. Please get with the surrounding district deputies to plan the following: 1. Who will host the training? Meeting Location 2. Time and Date 3. Food please have certain districts bring simple foods for lunch, i.e. District #1 sandwiches; D#2 chips & dips; D#3 veggie/fruit tray; D#4 desserts; etc 4. There should be a large room for all to meet and 3 rooms that break-out sessions can be held. 5. The cost of the training should be minimal only to cover the cost of copying new materials and handouts. The notebooks with information that were given out last term should be passed on to the incoming officer. 6. Which districts will be working together? I look forward to hearing from the District Deputies and working with you. May you all have a blessed Christmas season and remember the reason for the season! May we all see Christmas through the eyes of a child and see the wonderment of the birth of our Lord. "Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them---every day a task anew." St. Francis DeSales 6

7 With Pen in Hand Eve Trevino, State Secretary May the Lord bless and protect you and your family on this joyful holiday season. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all. Continue your good works of charity and unity always especially during this season of joy and peace. The more service you do the more rewards you will receive. State Dues for November 2009 were mailed out to the court regents. Regents, please pass the bill to your treasurer for payment. This should be paid upon receipt, and remember it is not necessary for the membership to vote to pay your National and/or State dues. Thanks are extended to the many courts that paid their May 2009 state dues on time. However, there were just a few courts that did not. If you are one, please bring your dues payment up-to-date. Remember that National and State dues must be current in order to be seated as a delegate at the National convention in July Listed are some reminders that are helpful when sending in your check to state: 1. Verify the amount of your check and make sure that there are two (2) signatures before mailing the check. 2. It is very helpful if you write down what the check is for on the memo area of the check. This will help me to know what you are paying and it will help you at your financial review. 3. Add your court number if it is not printed on your check. 4. Make checks payable to CDA State Court of Texas; please do not make them payable to the state officers. May peace, joy, hope and happiness be yours during this holiday season and throughout the New Year. Do Whatever He Tells You John 2:5 Dollars and Cents Minnie Rodgers, State Treasurer I have visited many courts and traveled many miles since the last time I wrote an article. CDA is so fortunate to have so many ladies who truly care about CDA and what happens to our courts. As I write this, I feel very honored to be able to attend the 100 th Anniversary this Sunday, in Austin for Court Maria Galante. Talk about History in the making! Please remember to send all your monies related to dues and donations first to Eve Trevino, State Secretary. If you send them to me, I have to forward them Eve. That extra step makes it difficult to process your checks and have them clear your bank account in a timely manner. I continue to learn about Quick Books and am proud of what I have learned. Please pray for your officers as we continue to grow and share in God s mysteries and surprises in life. While attending a marriage seminar on communication, my husband and I listened to the instructor say: It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other. He addressed the men: For instance, gentlemen, can you name your wife s favorite flower? My husband leaned over, touched my arm gently and whispered, Pillsbury All-Purpose, isn t it? The rest of the story is not pleasant so I ll stop here. 7

8 Memorial Scholarship One Card at a Time Peggy Rosales, Chairman Thank you to all the courts and JCDA courts that enroll people in this worthwhile state project. Remember that the cards are not just for sad events but also for good times like new babies, new jobs, marriages, promotions, birthdays, anniversaries and graduations! The memorial scholarship card is the best deal you can get I doubt that even Wal- Mart has this great of a deal for $.20 a month an entire year of prayers! The deadline for those who have family that are seniors in high school is fast approaching! Essay Topic: Do Whatever He Tells You John 2:5 What do Mary s words mean, and how will they inspire you to live your life? Deadline: Postmarked by February 1, 2010 The scholarship application is in the Regent s Packet and also available on the state website at In the September State Newsletter there was an article about the memorial scholarship and what qualifications are needed this program was started to help our youth further their education and to honor our Past State Regents for the ladies they were and are and the office which they held. It is my goal this term to have every court in the state participating in the memorial scholarship program. If you are not participating in the program and would like to know more please contact me. You never know when one of your members is going to have a family member going to college and everyone can always use the help when it comes to paying for the tuition! May everyone have a safe and most blessed Christmas! Court Out Reach Carolyn Bachmann, State Chairman Christmas is just around the corner so let us all remember the true meaning of this holy day. We sometimes forget that Christmas is the birthday of Jesus. Let us celebrate His birthday with our loved ones in a special way this Christmas season. As the 2009 year comes to an end, I ask you to take a close look at your court. Is your court growing in membership? Are the members keeping active in court activities? Are the members happy and willing to take part in the court s programs and functions? If the court members are not willing to recruit new members, take part in court activities, and help with court functions, then your court may need a boost to get it revitalized. It is important to recognize when the members are not actively taking part in the work of the court. If members have quit attending meetings, give them a call and extend a special invitation to attend the next meeting. Ask them if there are problems or a reason why they are not attending. It is important for the regent and officers to keep their eyes open so the court continues to grow and work in unity. State Financial Review Janis Wright, State Chairman Just a short note to say I wish for you and your family many blessings this Christmas season and in the New Year. With tough economic times, many people are spending less on gifts and donating less money to charities, but when you think about it, gifts of love - gifts from the heart are the best. If you feel like you can t dig any deeper in your pocketbook (or even if you can) why not give the gift of yourself maybe running errands for someone or visiting hospitals or a nursing home or a homebound person, etc. I feel that one of the greatest things about being a Catholic Daughter is the way we help so many others and perform acts of charity and kindness. May God bless you! 8

9 Just write it! This has been the message I share in each newsletter. Veering off from the normal presentation of how, what, where, and when techniques of writing a press release, I want to share a feature story on a celebration emphasizing how consistently awesome CDA truly is. Please remember, your State Public Relations Chairman can only do this when you, the local courts invite me to your major events. Please see the end of this newsletter for the story. State Public Relations Chairman Terrie Vacek terriecda@cebridge.net Simply remember that a press release should be: Concise - Well-written - Factual - Honest Timely. A feature story should contain quotes, pictures, and enough flair to entice the newspaper editor to publish your story. Just write your activities and leave the rest to God! Pray believing God will answer! May peace be your gift this Christmas and your blessing all year through. Missions of Mercy (MOMS) Cathy Bittner, Chairman Lillian Hansen, Vice-Chairman Each publication of the Texas CDA newsletter we will highlight one of the six missions Texas CDA supports. In the last issue we visited Cameron Colonias down south in Brownsville, so now we head towards the Austin area to discuss Annunciation Maternity Home. The facility is located on 3610 Shell Rd. Georgetown, TX You can reach them by phone at HAVEN or visit them on the web at The mission of the Annunciation Maternity Home is to provide women and teens in crisis pregnancies and their children with housing, educational opportunities and health services to empower them in their journey towards independence and self-efficiency. The nuns who run this facility offer these women housing, UT Charter schooling on site, pre-natal and post-partum medical care, parenting classes, life skills, job assistance, childcare, and counseling among other things. These folks offer a safe haven for young mothers to be from the time of their arrival until two years after the baby is born. If there are other children, they are welcome, too. So ladies, how about hosting a baby shower for Annunciation Home and putting all those new baby items in a box along with your court's donation and mailing them to Georgetown? Can you imagine these young girls' faces when they unwrap a new gift for their new baby? While you are at it, maybe consider sending these young ladies a small gift, too? They made the right decision and said yes to life. The facility lives by the motto from Mother Teresa: "It's not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving. The Navigator Teresa Maltbia, State Website Chairperson webadmin@texascda.org Just a few reminders about our web contact form: when you send a message to any one on the form, you will receive a copy sent to YOU! That way you have a receipt that it was sent. Did you sign up to the Share Forum? We will have a question and answer session soon. You don t want to miss it! Also, when submitting a court event, please make sure you give me all the information! I have gotten notices to place on the calendar without times and places. This makes it difficult to attend your Court s event if we do not know where to go! Christmas means we never have to ask God how much He loves us. 9

10 National Projects Texas State Court Ginger Shea, Chairman A wise man once said every society is judged by how it treats its least fortunate amongst them. With that in mind, please think of those with less than us and consider donating to each of the Projects and Charities listed below. We all have thousands of opportunities every single day to help others and with the Christmas Season upon us, it can be very tough on some of the less fortunate. As Catholic Daughters, we can lessen this hardship and use this opportunity to provide them with a little happiness. If your court has not mailed in its check to Eve Trevino, State Secretary, 1102 Delta, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, please do so now. Let s make this Christmas a special time of the year for some people less fortunate than we are; from our house to their house, make out that check and mail it to Eve Trevino now. May God bless all of you and may you have a wonderful Christmas with family and friends. Listed are the Projects and Charities that you may donate to: Apostleship of the Sea, Catholic Relief Services, American College at Louvain, Covenant House, Mother Teresa, Morality in Media, North American College, Project Handclasp, Tutwiler Clinic; Disaster Relief Fund SOAR (Support Our Aging Religious), Holy Cross Family Ministries/Father Peyton, Habitat for Humanity, & Smile Train. Thank you! Read Across America Anne Martin, State Chairman With the holiday and giving seasons approaching, don t forget the Gift of Reading. Now could be the time for a donation to a library it will count as participating in Read Across America. If things are too hectic for your court, stop, take a deep breath, and remember the Reason for the Season the birth of Our Lord. January, which is the perfect time to plan your Read Across America event, will be here soon enough. Start gathering the data from things you have already done this year. Maybe your court wants to try something new---how about partnering with a court that has never participated? Or maybe, get with your Knights of Columbus Council for a joint activity. The possibilities are endless. Remember, the actual Read Across America celebration is March 2, 2010, but practically any event during the year that promotes reading will count as participation for your court. I will need all reports post-marked by March 31 so that I can compile the data. If you have anything that you want to discuss, feel free to call. May the Good Lord shower you with His peace during the twelve days of Christmas and the entire year through. State Chairman, Spiritual Enhancement Olga Samaniego Tis the season to be holy. How blessed we are to have a special time of year that gives us the time to celebrate the fact that God loved us so much that He gave us His only begotten Son and that Emmanuel, God, is with us. As much as we love family and friends all year, this special season reminds us how very blessed we are to have each of them in our lives, and we go out of our way to show them our love through special gifts and kindnesses. We bake, wrap, decorate, and do all that we do to show them how much we love them. I hope that you will also remember to take time this year to show your love for your sisters in Christ and to treasure the gift of sisterhood. Remember the sisters who have served with you through the years; the sisters who have prayed with you; the sisters who have cried with you; the sisters who have supported you. God has put you together with the sisters in your court for a special reason to be church to one another. Be good to each other. Work on becoming one so that our motto of Unity and Charity will truly be exemplified by your court. Love each other; forgive each other; look for God in each other. Pray together; laugh together; enjoy each other, and know that God is with you. I hope that we will have the opportunity to be in retreat together soon. May peace and joy be with you this holy season and always. 10

11 State Legislative Report Peggy Supak, State Chairman United States Congress Health Care Reform By the time of printing of this newsletter The House passed the Health Care Reform Legislation by two votes and the legislation was being sent to the Senate for vote. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops continues to monitor this and all other legislation and the impact. At the same time that the Health Care Reform Legislation passed, so did the legislation placing a ban on the expenditure of federal dollars for abortions. To monitor legislation in the 111 th Congress and the Catholic Conference s stance on such legislation go to the following websites: and Show Your support for the unborn: January 22, 2010 will mark the 37th Anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision. Courts should plan some action during this week to seek the overturn of this terrible decision. Plan your activity early to obtain as much support as possible. Suggested activities include sponsoring members to attend the March for Life in Washington, D. C. and holding a vigil for life Mass, rally for life march, prayer service, or rosary. Please note that any event at a public building may require permission prior to the event. Elections Local and State Primary Elections will be coming up in March of next year. Most candidates have until the end of the year to file for a place on the ballot. One such election will be for Governor of the State of Texas. We must do all we can to learn about the candidates and their stance on issues. Most importantly we must exercise our right to vote. I extend my heartfelt wishes for a blessed and safe Christmas season for you and your families. State Ways and Means Chairman Cynthia Novak cynovak@verizon.net Hi, everyone. I take this opportunity to introduce myself, Cynthia Novak, as the new State Ways and Means Chairman. Texas CDA has many wonderful projects and their success relies on the proceeds from our fundraisers. The state raffle has been a major fundraiser for many years, and with the help of all CDA members the 2011 raffle will be no different. Taking that into consideration, now is time to consider your court s contribution. Several members, courts or districts may want to get together to donate a prize. Perhaps members may want to be creative and make something. Now is the time. It s not too early. Prizes will be gathered prior to the 2011 convention in Houston. Please feel free to contact me for more information. Barbara Molloy, Chairman bmolloy1@austin.rr.com State Activities Chairman 11 Fran Ewart, Vice Chairman franewart@earthlink.net SWINE FLU I know we are all sick of hearing about the flu, but here are some easy tips to keep us all flu free: WASH YOUR HANDS - Keeping your hands clean can stop viruses that are living and breeding around you from causing infection. COVER YOUR MOUTH - Block sneezes and coughs with your sleeve or tissue, and wash your hands afterward. AVOID TOUCHING YOUR EYES - They aren t covered with skin and can pick up the virus more easily. The most important tip of all - IF YOU ARE SICK, STAY HOME!!! WALK TO BUFFALO On September 18th at 6:30 pm, during the Annual Ice Cream Social held at the home of State Second Vice Regent, Peggy Rosales, the Daughters of Court 2391 challenged the Knights of Council to walk the distance from Austin to Buffalo, the site of our 2010 National Convention. With much bragging and bravado, the Knight accepted the challenge. When it came time for the ceremonial first mile, all but one of the Knights stayed behind and ate ice cream. Only one brave Knight joined the Daughters for the mile walk around the neighborhood. You can watch their progress by going to: Fran and I wish you and yours a Very Merry Christmas and a Blessed and Healthy New Year.

12 Campus Court Corner Barbara Britton, State Chairman The change of seasons is in the air, and you can feel it all around. It s pretty exciting; it almost feels like your soul is open to all of the upcoming events in the next few months. Here are a few activities that various Campus Courts have participated in recently. Congratulations to Daughters of the Incarnate Word #2583 in San Antonio. They won $200 first prize (for their CDA organization) for collecting the most food over 370 lbs. for Golden Harvest. Way to go!! They are also involved in Pennies for Peace, and they had a Tailgate party before the UIW Cardinals-Southern Arkansas Football game on Halloween. On November 20 th, this court celebrated its 3 rd Anniversary. The Belles of St. Mary s #2615, University of St. Mary s, participated in a 50 th Anniversary celebration for a Senior Court in San Antonio. They worked with the Best Buddies program on Campus, donated games and helped a Sorority sponsor a guest speaker for Breast Cancer Awareness week. They collected food products for the St. Mary s Chapel Choir to take to the Immigration Center in Corpus Christi. Currently 12 members are in the Chapel Choir. Happy 4 th Anniversary to Court Saint Claire of Assisi #2559, Baylor University, Waco, and congrats for bringing in 12 new members. They met on Sunday, Oct 25 th and made blankets for the Lynus project. Friday Nov. 13 th, CDA and K of C (Campus Council) sponsored a dance. They had a dance instructor attend to make it even more fun. LAST BUT NOT LEAST: SAVE THE DATE!!!!!!! For all Campus Court MEMBERS, Campus Court DISTRICT DEPUTIES, and Campus Court ADVISORS: When: February 5-7 (First weekend in February 2010) the Texas State Court will host (paid for by the State) a weekend of Training and Spirituality (Mini-Retreat) Food, Fellowship, and Fun. Where: The Drury Inn, 801 FM 1604 East, San Antonio, TX This is a treat for the Campus Court members, DD s of Campus Courts, and Advisors ONLY. We are sooooooo excited. It is the first gathering of its kind. We are bringing together all of the Campus Courts in Texas to get to know each other, share some of the things going on in their community, and REALLY learn what it means to be a Catholic Daughter. Mark your calendar now and be a part of this unique opportunity.!!!!! Message from Your State Regent Monies Due This is just a quick note to educate you all about what happens when courts order supplies that are not paid for or when they do not pay National Dues in a timely manner. Your State Regent receives a report of which courts are in arrears. I have recently received a report that fifty-two (52) courts in Texas owe money to National for dues as far back as March, for liability insurance, and/or for supplies. The supplies are not free. When you receive the statement for dues, liability insurance, or supplies that you have ordered, the payment is due immediately. Payment of these items does not require a vote by the court. Let me put this in perspective for you if the court does not pay, the cost is eventually passed onto the state. If the state has to pay, the state will need to impose a fee in addition to the bill owed to the National office. Therefore, you will owe more money in addition to your current bill to National. In addition, if these items are not taken care of prior to the National Convention in July, your court will not be seated as delegates. Currently in the state of Texas the total amount owed from the 52 courts is $3, I am asking those courts who owe (and they have all been notified by their District Deputy or by me) to direct your immediate attention to this matter. It is greatly appreciated. I expect all of these outstanding monies along with your November dues owed to National and to State to be paid by December 31, To put it bluntly, ladies, I do not have the additional time (energy, yes, time, no) to continue to chase these monies down. So, your cooperation and attention to this matter is greatly appreciated. Perhaps we can all make paying our bills in a timely manner our New Year s Resolution. Thanks so much for your help. 12

13 Message Service Community Youth/JCDA Reports Terri Beltran, State CDA Youth/JCDA Chairman I have had the opportunity and privilege to visit and chat with the new JCDA members as we install the new JCDA courts around the State of Texas. The girls are so full of hope and ideas for their courts, that they want to start working immediately. They want to make a difference in their communities. I do believe JCDA spirit is in the water because we have seen growth these past few months. The state officers have been so busy in their daily schedules, and yet they take their offices seriously by saying, YES whenever I give them a call telling them it s time to travel; pack your bags. I do believe that is the way is was with Jesus and His apostles. He called each of them by name, and they were ready to travel and proclaim the Good News. JCDA is all about proclaiming the Good News of Message, Service & Community. These young girls are important and they matter! Let us not forget that CDA s youth program is not just about JCDA; it is about all the youth in your parishes and communities. Send me your reports and your pictures showing what you are doing in your parishes. Many of our CDA sisters are working as youth leaders, CCE teachers, music ministers, etc. Of course, we hope and pray that your court considers developing a JCDA court, but if the time is not right, that s ok. All I ask is that you keep it in mind. As we travel from one end of Texas to the other there is one common denominator that the youth have in common; they are hard workers and dedicated to their faith; in this time of our Lord Jesus Christ s birthday, let us remember that Jesus is the Reason for the Season! Let us share His message of love especially with those who feel unlovable. Dates to remember: Nov 7 th State JCDA Commission Meeting Hallettsville Nov 8 th Ct Genevieve #917, Falls City Rosalie Titzman, Regent Nov 14 th Ct Rev. Daniel J. Touhy #2215 Donna - Janie Corona, DD#22 Nov 21 st Ct. St. Joan of Arc #1224 Del Rio - Anna A. Chapman, DD #15 Dec 13 th Ct Sacred Heart of Jesus #2422 Odem, Diana Garcia, DD #36 June 26, 2010 Summer Retreat Weimer Father John s Farm Reminder: If you haven t sent me your Financial Reports, they are past due. Please send them in. I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me? Jer. 32:27 Terri Beltran, State JCDA Chairman Phone: 979)543-7(067 Mon-Fri 8-4 fax: (979) Cell ( tabeltran@ecisd.org 13

14 Safe Environment Sheila Martinka, State Regent Times have changed, and in order to keep up, so must we as Catholic Daughters. I am not talking about the electronic age this time. I am talking about protecting what is precious to each and every one of us our children, God s children. In most of the dioceses in the nation and in Texas, Safe Environment classes have been developed and are becoming a requirement. You must take this class if you work directly with the youth of the parish by teaching CCE classes, assisting with the youth director, working in the nursery at church on Sundays, and of course, working with JCDA and any other programs that are for the youth of the parish or community. So what is Safe Environment? You may know it by another name in your diocese. These classes are designed to protect not only the children, but you as well. Unfortunately, there are people out in the world who prey on children and who take advantage of their innocence. These classes are designed to bring awareness of what to look for and ways to keep our children safe from predators. I am asking all CDA members to be proactive and take the initiative in this area. If you have not taken the class, I strongly urge you to consider doing so. Even if you do not have a JCDA court in your parish and even if you do not work with the youth directly, I am still asking that you take the class. Each State Board member has already taken the class in her respective diocese even though some do not belong to courts that sponsor JCDA nor do they work directly with the youth You may inquire about the classes in by calling your local diocese or by checking your diocesan website. In most cases, the classes are free of charge and last about 3 hours. Classes are available during the week and on Saturdays in most areas. Again, please check your local diocese. You must register for a class either online or by phone. Please do not just show up and expect to be admitted. The numbers are limited in the classes. Once you have taken the class, please give a copy of your documentation to your regent. She will collect all copies from all members and then turn them over to the District Deputy. District Deputies will forward this information to me for the State s files. All I need is proof that you have taken the class and have been approved or cleared. I do not want or need any personal information such as your social security number. I greatly appreciate your cooperation and time with this request. Please know that this is not a requirement of everyone; however, if you work with the youth, it is a requirement, and you should have already taken the class. There is one diocese in Texas where this class is a requirement not only for those who work with the youth, but also for those who are local court officers. They have been notified of this requirement already. I am asking each of you to consider this because it may soon be required of all of us, and I would rather be prepared than not. Just as in this Season of Advent, we are in preparing our minds and hearts for the birth of Our Savior, Jesus Christ, let us also prepare our membership to do their utmost to protect what we treasure most our children More information can be found on the Virtus Online website. Click registration to view a list of sessions in your diocese. Our arms are the only ones God has to hug His children. 14

15 STATE NEWS National JCDA Sunday is February 21, If you have a JCDA court, join them in helping to celebrate. If you do not, what a great day to start a JCDA court! If you are interested in a JCDA court or need more information, please contact Terri Beltran, Youth/JCDA State Chairman. Texas Pins it is time for a change, or an upgrade, whatever you would like to call it. Many of us already have the state pin in the shape of Texas. Some of us even are fortunate enough to have the original from a few years back. It has been decided that the time has come to design a new Texas pin. That is where you, the membership, come into play. Ladies, get creative because you will be designing the next Texas pin! Take this time to be thinking. The March Newsletter will have the guidelines for designing and the deadline (roughly mid June) for design entries. This will give the board enough time to review the designs and choose one. The new pin design will be for sale at the 2011 Convention. Just a reminder if you have scrapbook pictures of your court events, please send pictures to Lisa Jewell, State Scrapbook Chairman at 1018 Cragmore, Seabrook, TX or her at tors-mom@sbcglobal.net February 5-7, 2010 will be the first ever meeting of the Campus Courts in San Antonio! By this time, Texas will have 7 campus courts. This gathering will be for the young ladies, their advisors, and their respective District Deputies. This weekend will offer camaraderie, spirituality, and a learning opportunity about CDA and each other. An update will be given in the March Newsletter. Convention Corner Carol Snowbarger 2011 State Convention Chairman cjsnow@earthlink.net The first convention meeting was held at St. Theresa of Lisieux Community Center in Sugar Land on November 21, Many CDA ladies from the Galveston-Houston Archdiocese and from surrounding areas attended the meeting. Opening prayer was said by Fr. Roy Oggero. State Regent, Sheila Martinka, announced the Convention Hotel. CDA will be at the Houston Westchase Marriott, formerly known as the Adams Mark. The dates are April 28-May 1, Our Vice Chairmen are Cathy Bittner, Mavis Dugas, and Gennie Loggins. Thank you to the ladies who said yes and signed up for a committee. Most of the positions for the Convention are filled, but there are still some vacancies: A/V Hotel Hospitality Room for Workers Hospitality Room for Fr. Ruppert Photographer Program Ads Transportation to & from airport Transportation to & from Church If you are interested in chairing one of these positions, please contact me. Home: , Cell: and cjsnow@earthlink.net. I am very excited and honored to be your chairman for this convention, and the feedback we received at the meeting was very positive. With your help, we will have a very successful and fun convention. Our next meeting will be April I am looking forward to working and sharing this experience with each and every one of you. 15

16 NATIONAL NEWS 37 th Annual March for Life will take place in Washington, DC. A vigil Mass for Life will be held on January 21, 2010, and the March for Life will be January 22, The theme is Stand Up Now! Unite for the Life Principles No Exception! No Compromise! 2010 Elections In March of 2010 all local courts will be electing a Nominating Committee and Local Court Elections will take place in May of Please review your National Packet for detailed information on both of these processes. Regents, by now you should have received your first call to the National Convention in Buffalo, New York. The dates for the 53 rd Biennial National Convention are July 14-17, You will need to elect delegates at a business meeting prior to the March 15, 2010 deadline. National Dues are now due. Please pay these by the end of the year. You will not be seated at the National Convention if you have any outstanding bills. Happy Anniversary! Daughters of the Holy Trinity #2548, Baytown 5 th January 16, 2010 Father Juan Zavala #2012, Benavides 40 th January 24, 2010 Our Lady of the Mystical Rose #2399, Corpus Christi 15 th January 28, 2010 St. Roch of Mentz #2328, Alleyton 20 th February 4, 2010 St. Theresa of Lisieux #2211, Sugar Land 30 th February 6, 2010 St. Joan of Arc #1224, Del Rio 75 th February 7, 2010 St. Thomas Aquinas #2013, Falfurrias 40 th February 8, 2010 Daughters of St. Dominic #2549, Houston 5 th February 20, 2010 St. Bridget #2269, Longview 25 th February 23, 2010 St. Helen #2330, Pearland 20 th February 25, 2010 Queen of Peace #1374, El Campo 65 th March 1, 2010 Msgr. Claude Jalliet #1149, Corpus Christi 80 th March 9, 2010 Our Lady of the Americas #2334, Clute 20 th March 11, 2010 Ladies of St. Mary #2565, Brownwood 5 th March 11, 2010 Padre Pedro Bard #2016, San Diego 40 th March 15, 2010 Father Joseph Kopp #2018, Moulton 40 th March 16, 2010 Mother Teresa #2472, Amarillo 10 th March 19, 2010 Our Lady #2337, Dallas 20 th March 21, 2010 Santa Barbara #2017, El Paso 40 th March 22, 2010 Our Lady of Fatima of Alamo #2470, Alamo 10 th March 26, 2010 Our Lady of Sorrows #2273, Victoria 25 th March 31, 2010 Court St. Gerard #1938 State Local Newsletter Contest Chair Carol R. Matthews, Regent Alice Rodgers 5710 Meadowview Rd Heatherdale Beaumont, TX Houston, alicecdanewsletter@gmail.com 16

17 Texas Catholic Daughters in Action Our Lady of Grace #1734 Is conducting an Advent Project that involves all parishioners of St. Joseph. The "Baby Bottle Project" gives everyone the opportunity to give financially by filling empty baby bottles with loose change throughout the Advent Season. The proceeds benefit the Pregnancy Help Center of the Concho Valley located in San Angelo. Over $1,000 has been donated each year for the past two years. Queen of the Holy Rosary #2282 Participated in the Relay for Life Walk & Ceremonies. Donated monetary gifts and baby items to the Spiritual Adoption Project Donated toiletries to the local Crisis Center Participated with the local community blood drive by donating blood and baked goodies for the donors Participated in a Memorial Mass with the Knights of Columbus Christ the King #1750 Donated food items to Loaves and Fishes Participated in Make a Difference Day by collected toiletries, makeup, clothes and personal items to donate to Angela House. Immaculate Mary #2134 Donated time at the St. Thomas Food Pantry accepting applications for the Parish Angel Tree program Their JCDA attended the Forty Days of Life in Lake Jackson Holy Rosary #1476 Joyce Fowlkes and Syble Losack celebrated 50 years of membership. St. Laurence #2402 Members attended the St. Laurence Embracing the Sacred Rhythm of Life Women s Retreat Our Mother of Peace & Unity #2487 Sponsor a Giving Tree for Christmas St. Paul # 1604 Donate cookies to local nursing home, widows and widowers in the parish who have lost their spouse in the last year. Co-sponsor a Keep Christ in Christmas ad to place in the Shiner Gazette, with the Knights of Columbus Immaculate Heart of Mary # 1884 Participated in the White Ribbon Against Pornography week. Presented Babe Viotto with an 80 year membership pin! Presented Anita Severa, Barbara Chauvin and Stella Gegory with a 25 year membership pin. Mother of Unity #2292 Collect baby gifts for their Gifts for Jesus project, items will be donated to the Gabriel Project. 17

18 Texas State Calendar 2009 Oct. 2-4, 2009 State Board Meeting, Seguin Oct. 4, 2009 Institution of Court Our Lady of the Hill Country #2626 (SM, CM, PR, CB) Oct. 4, th Anniversary Ct. Archbishop Drossearts #1813 (Eve/Minnie) Oct. 17, 2009 District 9 & 53 Retreat at Mont Belvieu (Olga, Sheila) Oct. 17, 2009 CDA Day Lake Jackson Court Our Lady Queen of the Lake #2364 Oct. 18, 2009 National CDA Day Oct. 18, 2009 Institution of JCDA Ct Our Lady of the Hills #2415 Oct. 31, th Anniversary Our Lady of the Skyways #2006 Nov. 1, th Anniversary Madonna #1817, Dallas Nov. 7, th Anniversary Maria Galante #115, Austin Nov. 8, th Anniversary St. Genevieve #917, Falls City Nov. 14, 2009 Court Retreat* Ct Aquinas #2266 (Olga) Nov 15, th Anniversary Court Bishop Enrique San Pedro #2390 December 8, 2009 Institution of Court St. Angela Merci #2631, Denton Joint Campus Court TWU and Univ. of North Texas Jan. 3, 2010 CDA Christmas Mass at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral Victoria, TX 9:00 a.m. Jan , 2010 State Board Meeting & Interim Financial Review, Port Alto January 23, 2010 Multi District Meeting (21, 22, 31 & 50) Mercedes or Donna January 24, th Anniversary Court Father Juan Zavala #2012 Feb. 5-7 th, st Campus Court Mixer/Mini Retreat/Training, San Antonio February 6, th Anniversary Court St. Theresa of Lisieux #2211, Sugar Land February 7, th Anniversary St. Joan of Arc, Del Rio Feb , 2010 Court Our Lady Queen of Apostles #2391 Retreat, Temple February 27, 2010 Multi District Mtg. (16, 36, 41, 47, & 48), Corpus Christi February 28, 2010 Multi District Mtg. (23, 43, 57), San Diego, TX March 12-14, 2010 State Board Meeting, Austin March 13, 2010 Multi District Mtg. (11, 28, &37), La Grange April 10, nd 2011 State Convention Meeting (TBA) June 25-27, 2010 State Board Meeting and Financial Review, Shiner July 14-17, rd Biennial National Convention, Buffalo, NY Our Lady of the Hill Country, #2626 Daughters of Our Lady of Lourdes, #2630 Blanco/Johnson City Corpus Christi Chrystina Power, Regent Sonia Gonzales, Regent 88 Calendula Pioneer Spring Branch, TX Corpus Christi, TX Court St. Angela Merci, #2631, Denton 7th Campus Court in Texas will include Texas Women's University and University of North Texas 18

19 Court Maria Galante #115 ~ Mother Court of Texas ~ 100 years Celebrating 100 Years of Unity and Charity State Public Relations Terrie Vacek, Chair Nestled in the center of oak trees dating back to the late 1800 s about one hundred CDA members, clergy and guests celebrated what can only be done once in anyone s lifetime; Saturday, November 7, 2009 the Mother Court of Texas celebrated her 100 th Anniversary! Catholic Daughters of the Americas (CDA) Court Maria Galante #115 dazzled guests with a simple yet elegant luncheon and program. It was a God given awesome autumn day. Special guests included Libby Ramirez, National Regent, Victoria; Duchess Collins, National Director, Sugar Land; Reverend Donald Ruppert, National Clergy Consultant, East Bernard; Sheila Martinka, Texas State Regent, Deer Park/Houston; Carolyn Malik, First Vice State Regent, Shiner; Peggy Rosales, Second Vice State Regent, Austin; Eve Trevino, State Secretary, Corpus Christi; Minnie Rodgers, State Treasurer, Mission; Monsignor Michael Mulvey, Diocesan Administrator, Austin; Reverend Germanus Rayen, Court Chaplain, Austin; Carolyn Bachmann, Immediate Past State Regent, Scotland; Maria Galante s District Deputy, Sirene Brunell, Austin. Also attending were Past State Regents Amy Rueda, El Paso; Dee Scheetz, Austin; Olga Samañiego, El Paso; State Public Relations Chairman, Terrie Vacek, Willis; Campus Courts State Chairman, Barbara Britton, San Antonio; several District Deputies and local court officers and members throughout the state. Seated/L-R Ct 115 Regent, Melissa Counihan, Amy Rueda, Olga Samañiego Standing L-R Libby Ramirez, Rev. Donald Ruppert, Dee Scheetz, Minnie Rodgers, Sheila Martinka, Carolyn Bachmann, Eve Trevino, Peggy Rosales,Duchess Collins State Regent s address by Martinka was a review of the changes over the past one hundred years; only 8% of Americans had phones, women washed their hair once a month, life expectancy was forty seven, and only eight thousand Americans owned a car that averaged ten MPH. Her congratulations to Maria Galante members concluded with a thank you for responding with yes over the past one hundred years. Martinka said, much like Mary s yes changed the world, as each woman answered yes to the call to service, lives were changed emotionally, physically and spiritually, therefore continue to Do whatever He tells you John 2:5. National Regent s address by Ramirez took a turn from the trivia over the past century emphasizing the consistency, the impact of volunteer service, and the need to promote membership. Today only twenty six courts can boast one hundred years of membership. Ramirez said, We all must let the parishes throughout Texas know who we are, what we do, and what we can do for them; for In Him we live and move and have our being. Honoring 100 years of faithful service, spiritual growth, and charitable contributions Court Maria Galante Regent, Melissa Counihan; Vice Regent, Lucinda Gatica; Recording Secretary, Terise Urias; Financial Secretary, Margaret Myers; and Treasurer, LaNelle Blahuta provided a moving slide show presentation of court activity from 1909 to the present. The court was organized Daughter of Isabella on November 28, 1909 in Austin with thirty five charter members paying annual dues of $4.25. They later took their name from the Christopher Columbus fleet. One of their early projects to support the Holy Cross state hospital remains consistent with monthly programs and annual monetary donations. Members raised $10, in 1917 for the education of seminarians. In 1973 court achieves were destroyed with the KC Hall. Through two World Wars and fighting for a voice in the right to vote, while serving God, Church and community, Maria Galante members have weathered social, racial, and economic times with grace and joy. 19

20 Ct. Maria Galante #115 Theme Song written by Merion Darwin December 1941 (Sung to the tune of Till We Meet Again) We belong to the Catholic Daughters and love you with all our heart We will all do our part to further our aims and we all pledge our Faith anew. (Chorus) We re the Mother Court of our Great State Wonderful Court Maria Galante. Unity and Charity Dear to hearts of Catholic Daughters. Let us give our time and efforts too, For the things that God would have us do. So let us lend a helping hand to our fellow man. The following is a partial list of court activities: financial support in building the State Hospital, State School, WW1 Victory Bonds, WW2 war bonds and care packages, Faith Home, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, Brackenridge Hospital, Meals on Wheels, Red Cross, Christmas Baskets, Mary Knoll Missions, Respect for Life, Marywood Family Services, Youth, Education/scholarships, taco dinners and support to the State and National projects. Today they have fifty five members; some having sixty one years of membership including 5 th generation members. With history and humor, Reverend Ruppert delivered the keynote address combining state and national history with the history of the Catholic Daughters. He honored women of faith and service and for a push forward into unity and charity for the church and for justice. He said that despite all the many things that have changed over the past 100 years, CDA has changed little in goals and remains the nation s largest organization of women producing results. Ruppert has an enhanced appreciation for women in CDA stating, one hundred years ago a group of women laid their aprons aside long enough to form Maria Galante and made a difference in the world around them. We are amazed that from such humble beginnings, Texas has become a star in the crown of accomplishments. National Court award was presented by Duchess Collins, State Court award by Sheila Martinka, Governor s award by Joanne Counihan, Membership awards by Melissa Counihan, and an award of appreciation by Margaret Myer. Mass followed at the newly remodeled 1852 Saint Mary Cathedral. The formal procession of robed National, State and Local Officers followed by Father Germanus Rayen s remarks brought special attention to a packed Cathedral stating that this was a memorable day for all Catholic Daughters. Ct. 115 Regent Melissa Counihan and State Regent Martinka For more information about the Catholic Daughters of the Americas please view the national site at or the Texas site at As a Catholic Daughter, does your light shine? You are the light of the world Let your light shine before everyone that they may see your good works, and glorify your Creator which is in Heaven. Matthew 5:14, 16 20