Deanery. Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women. (From prayer to Our Lady of Good Counsel.)

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1 Volume 57 Number 4 Dubuque, Iowa FALL Issue 2014 National Archdiocesan Its hard to believe that our two years of serving as Dubuque Archdiocese officers, commissions and committees are coming to an end with the ACCW Convention on October 11, 2014 at St. Mary Church in Waverly, Iowa. In reviewing the goals and the purpose of the ACCW we were a link, a united voice for all Catholic women from the parish level to the national level. Being a united voice of all Catholic women we had a much greater impact, on issues of the day rather than a single voice. The excellent speakers we heard at our quarterly meetings, retreats, and Masses were wonderful spiritual undertakings. Thank you to Archbishop Jackels, and his staff, the Spiritual Advisors especially Msgr. Dean Walz and to all Priests, Deacons and Religious for your part in our spiritual growth. We have been blessed to have the ACCW office at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center and Thanks to the Pastoral office staff and workers who helped us by forwarding mail and phone calls. A special Thanks to the folks at the American Martyr Retreat House in Cedar Falls where we held our quarterly meetings. These outstanding people were so pleasant and helpful to work with. We are women of faith... working together we make a difference Our ACCW involvement stretched from donations to many charitable organizations, to service in the area and in the parish. Our organization is always humming with activity but we always have need of more active members. As the saying goes many hands make light work. Please don t get the impression that we are all work and no play because that simply wouldn t be true. Listed below are some of the highlights. In taking a directive of the Fathers of Vatican Council II in the Decree of the Lay Apostolate and the word of Pope Francis we are to evangelize. We have been witnesses to his teachings. Our active officers, commissions, and committees provided information on issues pertinent to the mission of the Church, as well as our communities and than translated this into programs of action. Our sense of community was felt in our group of women having common concerns and commitments in giving common witness, and sharing responsibly and pooling resources for the common good. Pro Life Movement, Legislation Days at the Capitol, and Rally for Life in Washington DC are outstanding examples of ACCW pooling resources to make a difference. Deanery Parish Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women O Mother of Good Counsel, patroness of the National Council of Catholic Women, intercede for us, that we may be wise, courageous, and loving leaders of the Church. (From prayer to Our Lady of Good Counsel.) Dear Sisters & BRothers in Christ, Baptismal Certificates are given gratis to parishes for presentation to newly baptized infants. Awards The outstanding women of the Dubuque Archdiocese are acknowledged by the ACCW with a certificate at convention in appreciation for dedication, leadership and service in their parish. Mary Rausch P. O. Box 37 Fort Atkinson, IA rauschm@acegroup.cc ACCW Youth Religious Award Ceremonies were held in the individual parishes where the candidates completed the requirements for recognition. Candidates come from organizations such as religious education, scouts, and 4- H, etc. ACCW Parish Angels Over 2000 layettes were made and distributed to Birthright, hospitals, local organizations, local families, Gabriel project and to the missions. Others gave cash donations. At the April Board of Directors meeting we learned of the needed 950 school uniforms for the project for needy Haiti students started in Vinton and Cedar Rapids area. Within two months 100 school uniforms (tops and bottoms) were done by local Parish Angels women along with many layettes. ACCW has members who travel to Haiti and take supplies with them. Layettes and pillow case dresses for Haiti were given to Steve Schmitz at All Saints in Cedar Rapids. Steve coordinates trips to Haiti and makes sure that they get there. We are now collecting unused luggage/ suitcases to carry donated items/ supplies and then leave the suitcases with the receivers in Haiti. World Needs The world wide disasters of lack of water, and refugees without food or shelter are being addressed through our donations to Catholic Relief Services a program of ACCW. Catholic Relief Service emphasis is on the family as the cornerstone of development. These are contributions given specifically to help women and children. The Madonna Plan provides pre-natal care, counseling, teaching sewing and weaving for income education and training. Water for Life builds wells and water systems in rural villages or urban slums. These contributions are given specifically to help women and children. continued on next page

2 President s Message, continued from front page The New Hampton Deanery ladies shared a project called, Water with Blessings. There is a you- tube video to watch about the Sawyer water filter. The three purchased kits went to Bolivia to the house of three Presentation nuns. Honoring Our Priests ACCW Council of Catholic Women participated in receptions, dinners, farewells, and ordinations. On June 16, we held a Priest Appreciation for over 70 priests at Epworth. This was a treat for our Dubuque Archdiocese Priests. We helped honor and celebrated our Spiritual Advisor Msgr. Walz on his 60 Anniversary of Priesthood. Seminarians are remembered with spiritual bouquets and monetary gifts and upon Ordination they are gifted with the Jerusalem blue cross stole from the ACCW. ACCW ladies help the local Red Cross by volunteering with the Blood bank New Change in Web Site New Web Site, DBQArch.org For ACCW you can use Dubuque Archdiocese ACCW. Please use and review the ACCW website goals, forms, events and by laws. John Robbins is the Pastoral Director of Design and Technology Caps of Love Our newest Service project is collecting bottle caps, made from hard plastic and the total pounds collected should be tallied and reported to the ACCW, The recycled plastic is used for park benches, tables etc. The money from recycling the caps will help the disabled purchase wheel chairs and seeing eye dogs. Working together 2013 ACCW Convention/LTD Workshop held on October 19, 2013 was a tremendously well received Convention held at St. Francis DeSales Hall at Ossian. The parish ladies, Decorah Deanery, and all who helped did an outstanding job. The 2014 ACCW Convention will be held at St. Mary Parish hall in Waverly on October 11, What a beautiful church and facilities. Thanks to all the parish men and women, deanery and to all who are working on making this convention another success. Alma Meyer and I attend the Diocese of Sioux City Catholic Women Biennial Convention April What a beautiful church and a great conference. They were gracious hostess. We attended and promoted several of the Holy Hours for Vocations led by Archbishop Jackels. We promoted and attended the last Christ Our Life regional workshop and some will be a part of the 2014 workshop planned for at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. ACCW women were among the 600 ladies who attended the Martha and Mary Conference in Dubuque Alma Meyer and I attended the 2013 National Council of Catholic Women Convention held in Florida and will be attending the 2014 NCCW Convention to be held at Grand Rapids, Michigan September I was elected to serve for two years on the NCCW Nominating Committee. As you can see we are an active group of women. We love companionship and support. We are affiliated with the National Council of Catholic Women (NCCW) who is a 2 support to our ACCW organization. The National Council of Catholic Women was organized 94 years ago to unite all Catholic Women and Catholic Women Organizations. While all Catholic Women are technically members, only dues paying members help support the VOICE OF CATHOLIC WOMEN. Members can be individual members and/or Affiliate members (parish/organizations). These dues support the organization to have representatives at the US Bishops Conference, United Nations, and the World Union of Catholic Women Organizations, Social Ministries, etc. We are the only women s organization to have a seat at the United Nations. As members of the ACCW women, we continue to seek ways to live out our faith and to put our own fears and discouragement aside in order to speak for those who have no voice. Our voice is needed now more than ever as we continue all of our efforts in the promotion of religious liberty, marriage, family, elimination of poverty, elimination of human trafficking, and protection of the dignity of all human persons from conception to natural death. On-going Education which we participated in NCCW Nationwide Leadership conference calls series March 12...Membership Developments April 23...Leadership and Advocacy May 6...Communication May 7...Spirituality and Legislation June 24...Summer Activities July 9...Leadership July 23...Immigration September 10...Spiritual Adoption of the Unborn Leadership and Advocacy Conference calls will now be scheduled on the 2nd Wednesday of every month. Please mark the calendar Pin # at 7 p.m. CT A special thank you to the contributors for the Saint Kateri Tekakwitha fund of the past two years. The donations collected from the ACCW will be used to commemorate our first native American saint at the American Martyr Retreat House, Cedar Falls, IA. Welcome to the New Officers and Thank You one and all for your past support As I complete my term of office as Dubuque Archdiocese President and reflect back over 2014, I know that we have accomplished many good things, but there is still much work to be done. We must not be afraid: we must continue to live our Catholic faith. My congratulations to our Dubuque Archdiocese President Alma Meyer and the officers, commissions and committees. Thank you one and all, retiring officers, commissions, committees and deanery presidents and/reps and all members for your support.

3 president-elect/publicity Fall Greetings As summer nears its end, I hope that you been able to steal some time away to be with your family to relax and recharge your wellness. This fall, take the opportunity to spend time to be recharged with the ACCW in the areas of Spirituality, Leadership and Service by attending the ACCW Convention, October 11. Meet, guest speaker, NCCW President, Dr. Rebecca Woodhull, with her down to earth Midwest values and forward thinking message as she leads us in her second year of her term at the helm of the National Council of Catholic Women. We are honored to have Most Rev. Archbishop Michael Jackels celebrate the Mass and installation of ACCW officers with the assistance of spiritual advisor Monsignor Wlaz Calendar of Daily Prayer Once again, thanks to Colleen Pasnik for allowing the ACCW to print the newly revised 2014 calendar of daily prayer for active archdiocesan priests for this issue of The Link and it will be included in the convention booklet. From the recent Dubuque Archdiocesan active priests survey summary, many priests comment that the ACCW could be instrumental in co-sponsoring retreats, (especially for widows, bereavement), to help form intentional disciples, (by reading and reflecting on the book, Forming Intentional Disciples that helps parishes form lay Catholics for their mission, and discuss action steps), continue the ACCW hospitality and affirmation of priests, look for ways to get more women, (especially younger women involved and finding areas of service attractive to them; foster relationship with mom s groups), continue to support of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, support the marriage initiative, continue with pro-life, stewardship, works of peace and social justice, outreach to the poor and marginalized, and those not active in faith life. Assist faith formation with programming, RCIA team, tutoring children who need to catch-up with sacraments, encouraging Catholic School education, be sponsors for adults, and promotion of the Catholic culture in the family. Evangelization was repeated several times. Thank you Priests, for your voluntary input at the June Priest Convocation. May their ideas help with the ACCW commission goals for the next two years? Mary can attest to this, every time I visit a church I pick-up the church bulletin and check the bulletin board of activities for parish women. Regarding Mom s groups, this past weekend I attended the baptism of my eighth grandchild at St Matthew in Cedar Rapids. I was delighted when I read two attractive posters on the bulletin board; entitled Momnipotent, 6-7:30, Monday evenings for 8 weeks, included video and discussion, free of cost, and child care provided. All Moms welcome. ktyler@stmatthewcr.org. The other poster indicated that this fall, nine Cedar Rapids Catholic Parishes will be hosting a six week Catholic Bereavement Program, for 1- and 1/2-hour sessions using Grieving the Death of a Loved One by Elizabeth Collier from RENEW Intl. These are the very things that I was thinking the ACCW could replicate in other parts of the archdiocese per our priests wishes. Opportunities to Serve Along with the priest suggestions, I would like to suggest the Council Women continually update their Catholic education 3 through the Catholic media of books, magazines, navigating the many Catholic websites, watching EWTN TV, archdiocese and province workshops, Bible reading and by subscribing to The Witness, etc. The recent Witness shared the Coming Home a new AMRH retreat, Sept , provided for spiritual healing and reconciliation for military men and women veterans. Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend, September Matthew Kelly Live! Living with Passion and Purpose Seminar, Saturday, November 22 at St. Alma Meyer PO Box 377 Calmar, IA Edward Parish, Waterloo. It is a 4 ½ hour seminar guaranteed to change your life. The acclaimed Catholic author and evangelist Mathew Kelly uses insights from the Genius of Catholicism to help participants grow in appreciation for how Catholic faith can shape every aspect of your daily lives including spirituality, relationships, parenting, work, money and personal health. Space is limited: register early. October is a busy with Rosary Month, Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, Respect Life Month and the extraordinary synod in Rome on Family Life. Then All Souls & All Saints. Be sure to vote your conscience in November. Another pope of our lifetime is on schedule for beatification, Pope Paul VI, on October 19, at the end of the extraordinary Synod of Bishops meeting on the family in Rome. Recently on EWTN, I heard the history of Venerable Sister Miriam Teresa of the Sisters of Charity, (who was born in New Jersey), is scheduled to become Blessed October 4, in the process for beatification. The year of 2015 will have global focus on the family and marriage when the World Meeting of Families will be held in Philadelphia. Extra prayers can be said for the success of these events and the upcoming synods of bishops. Dubuque Archdiocesan Active Priests: Survey This past January, I surveyed the current board, commissions and committees for their input on the future of the ACCW, and asked where they would like to continue to serve in the areas of Spirituality, Leadership and Service. As I m approaching the new term as ACCW President, I m looking for one or two women volunteers who are into scrap booking and photography to handle the ACCW historian and archives committee for the next two years as we look forward to the 85th anniversary in Also needed are volunteers in marketing and graphic arts to update brochures; college women are welcome to share their talents. Another area, appointments need to be made in the area for auditing committee; prefer the volunteer service of a woman CPA and/ or accounting background to assist the ACCW treasurer, and area parish/deanery volunteers to serve on the nominating committee. Let me know by October 1. Best way to contact me this fall will be by calling me on my cell phone, Hoping you ll publicize the details of the affordable ACCW Convention in your parish so attendees can take advantage of the early discount registration which includes continental breakfast, roast beef dinner, and convention packet of $15 by October 1. Be sure to nominate Outstanding Parish Women for ACCW recognition by October 1 and make arrangements for the recipients to attend October 11. I m hoping to see you at Waverly. May Our Lady of Good Counsel intercede for us and bless the ACCW with all the upcoming changes.

4 Message from the Vice-President Summer is still in the air by the feel of the humidity following our much appreciated rain early this morning. Thank you God for blessing us with even this small amount of moisture. Our archdiocese welcomed three men in ordination to the priesthood at St. Raphael Cathedral on June 28 in a beautiful setting. Many women religious, priest and deacons, family and friends from the diocese and around the country participated in the liturgy and were moved by the music. Fathers Mark Murphy, Kyle Digmann and Jeff Dole have received their assignments at parishes in and around Dubuque. Archbishop Jackels, presided and laid hands on the three men, along with Archbishops Emeritus Hanus and Kucera, and fellow priests in attendance. It was a magnificent celebration for me to enjoy!! MARLENE MANGRICH 764 Stevens St. Jesup, IA jmmangrich@jtt.net On July 13 at the beautiful St. John Church in Delhi Msgr. Dean Walz expressed his gratitude at the liturgy and celebration of his 60 years as an ordained priest, and to celebrate his birthday. Many fellow priests, family members and friends gathered from near and across the country. It was also my pleasure to be in attendance. What a grand day it was, with fellowship and food to make it all complete. With fall arriving soon and school back in full swing, there are many opportunities for those who would like to become closer to their Catholic religion as helping with RCIA, teaching Confirmation, Evangelization opportunities and Bible study groups, I am reminded of this little phrase that has been in our bulletin several times. Jesus help me to know you, Jesus, make me attentive to your voice, Jesus, show me the way to your Father and when I get lost, please come find me one more time. C0-legislative The term, eclesia militans, the Church Militant, was introduced during the Council of Trent in 1563 and is defined as follows: The Church militant is the society of all the faithful still dwelling on earth. It is called militant because it wages eternal war with those implacable enemies, the world, the flesh and the devil. Strategies for confronting the Church enemies include: 1. Fighting abortion, the greatest evil of our times. 2. Defending the family against those who seek to redefine it. 3. Monitoring the popular culture and speaking out when the Church is attacked. 4. Voting for sound candidates for public office. 5. Supporting those organizations that are confronting anti-catholic forces daily. Edna Brunkhorst 104 Willow Circle Waverly, IA edna@brunkhorst.org We, the Church Militant, have prayer as our best weapon. legislation The Iowa Catholic Conference Human Life and Dignity Committee will meet on Sept. 4 in Ankeny to consider legislative priorities ahead of the 2015 legislative session. The committee replaces the former Pro-Life, Social Concerns and Family Life Committees to speak with one voice in support of the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalized. Members will focus on applying Catholic social and moral teaching to proposals for legislative priorities, from abortion to immigration and poverty to end-of-life issues. The committee will present a draft of the legislative priorities to the ICC Board of Directors for approval in October. In the Catholic tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation. ~ Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship PARLIAMENTARIAN - As organizations go through the year and experience the rulings they have made, they find times have changed making the rules unsatisfactory. Our ACCW is not exception. Times have changed, officers are harder to find as no one wants to make a commitment for two years. Consequently, bylaws need to be changed. Let s review our bylaws and bring constructive information to our meetings. Our Archbishop has stated All ladies of our Dubuque Archdiocese are members of the ACCW Your parish ladies group may be called by another name but we are all one and need to promote our good Catholic heritage. Each of you know who is a good leader in your parish. ACCW can and does help. Try us! SHEILA RASSMAN 3298 County Rd B 16 Calmar, IA sheillarass4life7@yahoo.com lillian mcgovern th St. Keystone, IA ejmfarms@netins.net 4

5 54th Convention Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW) St. Mary 2700 Horton Road Waverly, Iowa (2 miles north on CR V14) Saturday October 11, 2014 BE THE UNITED VOICE OF CATHOLIC WOMEN Registration: 8:00 a.m. (Time for breakfast, visiting displays, putting bids on silent auction items, renewing old friendship and making new friends.) Attendees are invited to bring items for the silent auction Check flier or web site for more details Call to Order: 9:00 a.m. Business Meeting Honor Outstanding Women forms available on the website. They are due by October 1. 11:00 a.m. Mass Archbishop Michael Jackels, installation of officers Lunch Entertainment Group Picture Speakers National Council of Catholic Women President Rebecca Woodhull Joan Gubbels; Iowa Province Director Memorial Service 3:00 p.m. Closing Prayer Registration: $15 early bird discount till October 1. Registration $20.00 after October 1 or at the door Registration fee includes continental breakfast, lunch, and convention materials Name: Address: Telephone: Parish: Deanery Voting delegate, please check: yes no For more information, call Mary Rausch at or rauschm@acegroup.cc Attach check payable to Dubuque ACCW Mail to: Mary Rausch Box 37 Fort Atkinson, IA

6 AN INVITATION TO ALL WOMEN OF THE DUBQUE ARCHDIOCESE 54th Convention Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW) St. Mary 2700 Horton Road Waverly, Iowa (2 miles north on CR V14) Saturday October 11, 2014 BE THE UNITED VOICE OF CATHOLIC WOMEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO: CELEBRATE with Archbishop Michael Jackels, S.T.D. at the 11 a.m. mass. Spending time in prayer with our shepherd is often the highlight of the day for many convention attendees. Take this opportunity to join Archbishop Jackels and the women of the archdiocese in celebrating mass and the accomplishments of the women of the archdiocese. HEAR from Dr, Rebecca Woodhull the National Council of Catholic Women president. What an opportunity to have the NCCW president in our midst. She is a neighbor residing in Springfield, Illinois. She will inspire and share information about the programs and goals that the National Council of Catholic Women has planned. This is an opportunity for you to share your ideas. MEET our new Iowa Province Director Joan Gubbels Joan is a resident of Council Bluffs, Iowa and a member of the Des Moines Diocese. She has been active in Council work for many years holding most of the available positions. Her biggest asset is bringing people into the council by asking them to work. She served as province director from 1989 to EAT a delicious roast beef dinner prepared by the Waterloo Deanery. ENJOY sharing time with friends, attending the silent auction, and learning more about the Council 6

7 DUBUQUE ARCHDIOCESAN COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN PROPOSED BY-LAWS CHANGES The convention held in even numbered years is when changes to the Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women By-laws are reviewed and changes proposed. Following is a summary of the changes proposed for Please check the Dubuque ACCW web page on the Archdiocesan Web site to see a complete list and the correct wording proposed and be prepared to vote at the Convention if you are a voting delegate. If you do not have internet access, contact your parish secretary or a friend. If you want to see a hard copy, please contact your Dubuque ACCW board member. Please review the changes before the convention October 11. Some of the changes are just for clarification as adding ACCW etc. Policy Changes include: Voting to have a Convention each year (that means a business meeting at each yearly meeting). If that passes, change to eliminate the word General Assembly every time it appears and replace with the word convention and when applicable the word even year or odd year convention (Rational to follow the NCCW which now has a convention each year). Voting to change the executive committee to consist of the elected ACCW officers and immediate past President, parliamentarian, and Spiritual Advisor. The Dubuque ACCW Bylaws gives the responsibility to the newly elected President to appoint Commission Chairs. The President has the responsibility to appoint the 3 Commission chairs (Spiritual, Service and Leadership) with approval of the Board. Rationale is to modernize and to get and keep younger ACCW working women who are serving in these positions. The ladies in these positions would only have to ask to take off one (1) day instead of two (2) days of work and be with their family in the evening. The 3 Commission Chairs would be able to give reports in person or by electronics and be present at the quarterly ACCW Board meeting. It would align us the NCCW and the other sections of Iowa ACCW. The Power of Prayer, Inc. Monthly Prayer Requests for Active Priests in the Archdiocese of Dubuque Prayer suggestions: Mass, Rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet, Eucharistic Adoration, Fasting, Sufferings, or as you are inspired. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Pope Francis, Fr. Rodney Allers Fr. Dave Ambrosy Fr. Greg Bahl Fr. Paul Baldwin Fr. Jerry Blake Fr. Scott Boone Fr. Walter Brunkan Fr. Scott Bullock Fr. Dennis Cain Fr. Jose Comparan Fr. Brian Dellaert Fr. Noah Diehm Archbishop Jackels, Fr. G. Anderson Fr. David Beckman Fr. Marvin Bries Fr. Ray Burkle Fr. Don Czapla Fr. A. Dietzenbach and all bishops Fr. Ray Atwood Fr. Keith Birch Fr. James Brokman Fr. Dennis Cahill Fr. Rick Dagit Fr. Kyle Digmann Deacons & Religious men and women of our Archdiocese 8 9 Fr. Jeffrey Dole Fr. Jim Dubert Fr. John Flaherty Fr. Steven Garner 10 Fr. Ken Gehling Fr. Phil Gibbs Fr. Ken Glaser Fr. John Gossman 11 Fr. Bob Gross Fr. Joe Hauer Fr. John Haugen Fr. Clete Hawes 12 Fr. Don Hawes Fr. Nils Hernandez Fr. Don Hertges Fr. Henry Huber 13 Fr. Wm. Joensen Fr. Dennis Juhl Fr. Jerry Kopacek Fr. John Kremer 14 Fr. Phil Kruse Fr. Tony Kruse Fr. David Kucera Fr. A. Lawrence 15 Men and women in Religious, Deaconate and Priestly formation 16 Fr. P. Lippstock Fr. Doug Loecke Fr. S. Lundgren Fr. N. Manternach 17 Fr. Nick March Fr. Gary Mayer Fr. Jack McClure Fr. Tom McDermott 18 Fr. Mike Mescher Fr. Steve Meyer Fr. Dennis Miller Fr. James Miller 19 Fr. John Moser Fr. Mark Murphy Fr. Ivan Nienhaus Fr. Dave O'Connor 20 Fr. John O'Connor Fr. Mark Osterhaus Fr. Paul Peters Fr. D. Plamondon 21 Fr. C. Podhajsky Fr. M. Podhajsky Fr. Dennis Quint Fr. Dale Rausch 22 Retired Archbishops, Priests, Deacons and Religious 23 Fr. Mark Reasoner Fr. Mark Ressler Fr. Carl Ries Fr. Steve Rosonke 24 Fr. R. Schaefer Fr. David Schatz Fr. Joe Schneider 25 Fr. Mike Schueller Fr. James Secora Fr. Jon Seda 26 Fr. Ken Stecher Fr. Greg Steckel Fr. Craig Steimel 27 Fr. Michael Tauke Fr. D.Thoman Fr. P. Thompson 28 Fr. Thomas Toale Fr. Dustin Vu Fr. D. Wathier 29 For an increase in vocations to the Priesthood, Deaconate and Religious Life 30 Fr. Alexander Wild Fr. L. Wilgenbusch Fr. Tom Zinkula O God, who appointed Your only-begotten Son to be the Eternal High Priest for the glory of Your Majesty and the salvation of mankind, grant that they whom He has chosen to be His priests and the stewards of His mysteries may be found faithful in the fulfillment of the priesthood which they have received. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. For permission to reprint, contact Colleen Pasnik, The Power of Prayer, Inc , bcpasnik@msn.com, or visit our website, Revised June

8 DECOrah - How do we gain new members and keep them? This is a question occasionally asked by our Catholic Council of Women and as we are aware with every organization this is not a new concern! We discuss things like our Mission, Purpose, and our Image to the general population, attitudes and concerns, strengths and weaknesses, and a variety of other topics. Through listening and participation in these discussions, and then listening to the varied results, it is evident that one of the biggest strengths we possess and only seem to mention is EMPOWERMENT...we have spoken it many times, but have we used it? The power and strength we possess does not only come from mentoring others for roles in various offices, but also by showing other women of faith how confidence can do amazing things when combined with the many talents God has given us to use. I strongly believe the Catholic Council of Women IS the group that helps support and nurture confidence in its membership! If we can but radiate joy and confidence in all we do, then we will not have to worry so much about who is waiting in the wings to follow in our footsteps because the numbers will be great. Let us continue to share all the wonderful things we do, with others, and let them know the joy it brings us to finally be able to help God by being His hands and feet! Strive to attract and empower other women like yourselves by example! The Decorah Deanery Council of Catholic Women Day of Recollection was held on August 6, St. Benedict Parish, in Decorah hosted the event. Sr. Amy Taylor, FSPA of Lacrosse was guest presenter. The Theme was Living a packed Life what do you make room for? God Refreshes our Hearts...Philemon 1:7 Over 55 women were in attendance for the event. President Sheila Rassman Women of the Archdiocese are members. All of us in the Dubuque Archdiocese who are Catholic Women are part of the Council of Catholic Women. Many take an active part in the programs offered by this long-standing organization. Some, however, do not realize they are included in CCW membership. Perhaps they pay dues, yet do not attend meetings or enjoy special events that are available. If one is to develop a deeper Christian response to the Gospel, getting involved in your local deanery, is an excellent opportunity. Now, more than ever, we need to be informed, for ourselves and to share the teaching of our Catholic faith with our families and friends. Attendance at meetings, retreats, conventions, etc., serves to give encouragement and motivation for living out our calling to be followers of Christ today. There are many ways to be of service and to put our faith into practice. The CCW has a role for all women to use their time, talents and support! Attendance at meetings and being a voice of caring Catholic women is a privilege, as well as a responsibility. We need to continue to keep the CCW alive and strong in the Church today and for tomorrow. President Elect Connie Kepros Marshalltown - The Marshalltown deanery as blessed with a very successful tip night at the Pizza Ranch last year so we are blessed with a checking 8 deanery doings balance to cover our programs. Since we won t need to do fund raisers we are concentrating on spiritual programs. In addition to sending cards, note of encouragement and prayers, birthday remembrances this year we encouraged parishes to remember their pastors living and deceased mothers on Mother s Day. President Elaine Upah New HampTON - The goal: for my upcoming presidency term is to renew interest in all New Hampton deanery women to take an active part in attending deanery Council of Catholic Women meetings. (1) Send upcoming meeting notices to all parishes. Notices will include date, time and place of meeting, what the program will consist of and invite attendees to bring a friend. (2) After all deanery meetings, a synopsis of the meetings will be sent to the parishes for their bulletins in hopes of awakening the interest of the New Hampton Council of Catholic Women members to attend the meetings and share their time, talents, and treasurers. President Elect Yvonne Kirch WATErloo Deanery - Again this year the Waterloo Deanery had a garage sale as a fund raiser. Our President Helen Finn once again offered her garage as the site we used on August 21 & 22nd. A lot of closets and basements were cleaned and a few ovens used to supply a wide variety of items. It was an enjoyable couple of days spent with each other and the customers. President Elect Nancy Steffen SERVICE COMMISSION October is Domestic violence Awareness Month. You are encouraged to begin now to collect the designated supplies and research the contact agency for your area. Ideas for service projects include fully equipped back packs. Equip children in the mentoring program and clients of the Resource Center who may not have food or the school supplies they need. An example of a Box Meal Kit includes which gives a family a dinner can include items which are non-perishable such as ALTHEA Murphy 604 W Main St. Calmar, Iowa altheam@saf .net Charlotte Mihm Quail Rd Fort Atkinson, IA spaghetti dinner, jar of sauce with meat, dry noodles, can of green beans, and a box of chocolate pudding mix. Sew tote bags and fill them with a towel and personal products.

9 Spirituality It is with joy that I share with you a new prayer movement for children called the Children s Rosary. Children s Rosary groups exist in 5 Continents and 20 states around the US. This beautiful movement is an effort to have rosary groups for children, led by children, in parishes throughout the world. This article by Blythe Kaufman was written in the National Council of Catholic Women magazine. These prayer groups meet weekly or even monthly. Through the rosary, Our Lady will guide our young people and sanctify the families in local parishes. Each Children s Rosary group is consecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Each group is under the protection and guidance of Jesus and His Mother. Consider how much Jesus loves our children. He waits for and calls our children to be with Him saying, Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to each of these (MK 10:14) It is my hope and prayer that the National Catholic Council of Women will prayerfully bring this movement to our parishes. Do not worry about the numbers. It has worked successfully with from two to twenty five or more children. Children s prayers are necessary today; each one is treasured by Our Lord. More information go to blogspot.com and I also want to recommend sending your children to Catholic Schools in the area. What does it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul! I am impressed by the commitment to the Catholic teachings of love, sacrifice and service in our schools by our teachers and parents. They understand the importance Catholic faith plays in the formation of youth. The immersion in the school setting develops good communities of faith, knowledge and service and accept the challenges Jesus lays out for all of us! This opportunity for spiritual formation encourages and challenges to give back to the Lord and serve others with love. Praying the Rosary, a contemplative prayer, offers an opportunity for Catholics of all ages to meditate on the mysteries of Christ s life. PHYLLIS EINWALTER th Ave Fort Atkinson, IA phylliseinwalter@yahoo.com leadership commission - In Matthew 16, Jesus said to his disciples, Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? Or what can one give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father s glory, and then he will repay all according to his conduct. In recent weeks, we have seen the Ice Bucket Challenge become a pop culture and social media phenomenon. This challenge may be seen as a way of following this command of Jesus. However, while promoting awareness and funding research such as this, it is also important to understand the associations that are being funded. Archbishop Michael Jackels has made the following statement with regard to this issue: The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge Statement Archbishop Michael Jackels There is interest in what has become known as the Ice Bucket Challenge to create awareness of ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig s Disease, and to encourage donations to the ALS Association for research. Promoting awareness of and funding research for a disease like ALS are good things. But donating to the ALS Association is inconsistent with Catholic moral teaching as it promotes stem cell research that destroys embryonic human beings. Catholic individuals, parishes, schools, and other entities in the Archdiocese of Dubuque, if they participate in the Ice Bucket Challenge, are asked to send their donations to the John Paul II Medical Research Institute (JP2MRI) in Iowa City. The JP2MRI is a secular non-profit research institute that is guided by a pro- life bioethic to advance technology for the treatment of diseases such as ALS, cancer, Alzheimer s, and other diseases. When making donations to the JP2MRI you may ask for the gift to be restricted to ALS research. Online donations can be made at Checks can be made payable to: John Paul II Medical Research Institute, 540 E. Jefferson St., Suite 305, Iowa City, IA While this statement is not discouraging participation in this challenge, it is calling us to be aware where our donations go. 9 JOANNE POHLAND 9482 Cashel Drive E Peosta, IA

10 ALL ROADS LEAD TO WAVERLY AND OFFER AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET NCCW PRESIDENT REBECCA WOODHULL - convention speaker Below is an article Rebecca wrote for the Catholic Woman magazine. Is It Ice Cream Social Time Yet? by Rebecca Woodhull Dear Beloved Sisters in Christ: Is it Ice Cream Social time yet? Don t we women do a lot of the Lord s and the Church s work through our God given talents of organizing, managing, preparing, soliciting, volunteering and making good things happen for our families, parishes and communities? That is one part of what Saint Pope John Paul II called the Feminine Genius! When I hear a pastor tell me, We don t have a women s group in this parish! I say, Well, who does all the work? Who cleans the church, irons the linens, provides the Funeral Receptions, conducts the Ice Cream Social, runs the Bible Study, assists at ordinations, serves at the Thanksgiving Supper and Lenten Fish Fries, handles the parish Bingo nights, conducts the Christ Child baby shower for unwed mothers, takes food to the Catholic Charities food pantry and the local homeless shelter, attends the state Catholics at the Capitol Day, participates in vigils outside Planned Parenthood or abortion clinics during the 40 Days for Life? Who is that if not a parish women s group? (Ok, well, sometimes the men s group helps too!) In the words of His Eminence Francis Cardinal George of Chicago, The women of the Council of Catholic Women make it all happen. Sometimes, I think we get too hung up on titles. Father may really be saying that they don t have an official parish Council of Catholic Women. But they do. If a parish has women working togetherwhether they call it a Council of Catholic Women or they call it the Funeral Lunch Committee or Altar Society or Rosary Group or the Young Mother s Groupit is a council of Catholic women by our definition and by the definition of the U.S. Bishops when they created us. A parish women s group does not need to rename itself to belong to the NCCW and be an affiliate of NCCW. When the U.S. Bishops created the National Council of Catholic Women, they did so knowing that over two hundred other Catholic Women s organizations were already in existence. They called all Bishops to send up to three women representing each diocese to the organizational meeting of the National Council of Catholic Women! No women were to be left out. In the words of the history book describing our origination, The (NCCW) Women s Council 10 will not take the place of any existing Catholic society its aim is to supply what we now lack and to keep and to aid every existing Catholic women s organization. My reason for mentioning this is that when you, as an Individual Member of the NCCW or as a President of an NCCW affiliate, meet someone from a parish that is not an NCCW affiliate and they say, We don t have a women s group or We don t have a Council of Catholic Women, or we already have an X group, please do not hesitate to remind them that they do and they should be members of the NCCW. Then give them that NCCW membership form that I know you always have hidden in the bottom of your purse! The theme of this edition of Catholic Woman is the New Evangelization, with a sub theme of Catholic education. The National Council of Catholic Women has an important role in both! As leaders in our parishes and dioceses, as the voice of all Catholic women, we must be in the forefront of sharing the Good News, in the way we women do best. In this issue, you will find articles that will provide you with ideas and inspiration for sharing our beautiful faith and for being informed on issues facing Catholic education and our society today. May God and Our Lady of Good Counsel grant us this grace! Layette count October 11 is our Dubuque ACCW Convention and an opportunity to encourage the women to participate in our Layette Count. Making layettes is a continuous process. I know September is our yearly count at St. Benedict. I already have 19 beautiful layettes from St. Wenceslaus, Spillville. We also welcome Clarion, Iowa into our Archdiocese. The women of St. John, Clarion are contributing their share of layettes. Remember to keep count of the layettes you have made and if possible distribute the layettes in your area.. Put the number of layettes your parish has made this year (since the last convention) on a file card and bring it to the convention. A drawing will be held for those who bring their count. Thank you for all your good deeds Lois Ruff, Layette Count Chair

11 Pro-life Long ago I learned that when giving speeches, it is important to limit main points to three. Apparently, that s all people can absorb in one sitting. I m going to apply that principle to this article, too. The three topics addressed are webcam abortion, 40 days for life & the ice bucket challenge. 1. Planned Parenthood began committing webcam (telemed) abortions in Iowa in Jill June, then CEO, bragged that these long distance abortions would revolutionize health care and expand abortions to every county in Iowa. Pro-life groups across the state began educating Iowans about this practice and the dangers it poses to the health of women. A year ago (September 27, 2013) the Iowa Board of Medicine banned the practice of using a video-conference to distribute abortion-inducing pills (webcam abortions). Their rule (as the recommendation is called) states that a physician must perform a physical examination prior to administering an abortion inducing drug, the physician must be physically present when the drug is administered and a follow-up appointment is necessary days after the drugs are taken. In addition, parental notification laws apply to the practice. Their statement addresses the health and safety of women regardless of where they live. Planned Parenthood of the Heartland had sued the Iowa Board but on August 19, 2014, Judge Jeffrey Farrell ruled in favor of the board. He said the board had authority to regulate such issues and had met legal requirements. The ruling takes effect in 30 days (September 18). As expected, a Planned Parenthood spokeswoman said they would appeal. Our hope is that Judge Farrell s ruling is the beginning of the end of webcam abortions. We must remain vigilant and do all we can to support this ban. Fast and pray. Keep watch. Speak up. More than 6,400 babies have died using this system. It has got to end! The sooner, the better for the health of women and the lives of their babies. 2. Interestingly enough, the 40 Days for Life Campaign also came to Iowa in The upcoming campaign runs from September 24 through November 2, Plan to participate in this effort to end child-killing through prayer, fasting and peaceful activism. Worldwide, this effort has resulted in 8,973 saved babies, 101 worker conversions and 56 closed abortion centers. Do your part to save babies in Iowa sign up to witness for an hour, an hour a week or whatever you can do. Almost everyone should be able to find an hour available when given any hour 24/7 for 40 days. If you are pro-life, you need to be on the front lines at least occasionally. That is where you experience the gut wrenching reality of what abortion is. That is where the most important prolife work is done. That is where babies are saved. That is where babies are saved just in the nick of time! 3. The Ice Bucket Challenge has to be the most innovative fundraising effort to date! We ve all seen it or heard about it. Unless, of course, our head is IN the bucket (or sand, as the saying goes ). Once nominated, one must either throw a bucket of ice water on your head or donate to the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association (ALSA) or both. The idea is brilliant. We support raising awareness for ALS (commonly called Lou Gehrig s disease) and for charities in general. But beware! ellen markham 1724 Geraldine Dr. Dubuque, IA elmarkham@mchsi.com Many, actually most, charitable organizations support Embryonic Stem Cell Research (ESCR); ALSA is one example. Donating to such research is unethical and immoral, even if such organizations do many other good things. And there are always ethical alternatives. On August 26th, Archbishop Jackels issued a statement asking that those who participate in the challenge donate to research organizations that do not use controversial research methods. He suggests the John Paul II Medical Research Institute in Iowa City. He stated, Promoting awareness of and funding research for a disease like ALS are good things, but donating to the ALSA is inconsistent with Catholic moral teaching as it promotes stem cell research that destroys embryonic human beings. If science tells us we need to destroy one human to cure another then they have failed us. Let s work toward creating a medical society that values all human life regardless of size. And save our souls in the process! Celebrating Sixty Years of Priestly Ministry Monsignor Dean Walz July 13,

12 National Archdiocesan Deanery Parish Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 184 Dubuque, Iowa Published four times a year by Dubuque Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women since 1958 $5.00 per year To subscribe or renew your subscription, contact the editor. Please submit all items for the next issue by December 1st to: Rose Ann Jero, Editor 1909 Edgebrook Drive Marshalltown, IA home phone lljero@centurylink.net The ACCW would like to thank Scott Printing & Design for their assistance in putting this newsletter together. Please share the information in The Link or your copy with a friend! NOTICE: When ordering The Link make checks payable to DACCW. BE INFORMED The editor wishes to thank all of the women who have supported The Link financially by becoming subscribers. God Bless You A subscription form is available on page 5 of this issue. See you at ST. MARY CHURCH in WAVERLY on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 for the convention and silent auction. NOTICE: Outstanding Women nomination forms are due October 1st. Please mail to Mary Rausch Calendar of Events November Executive Committee AMRH November Board of Directors AMRH January Executive Committee AMRH January 21...Board of Directors AMRH April 7... Executive Committee AMRH April 8... Board of Directors AMRH July 21...Executive Committee AMRH July Board of Directors AMRH EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: Mass at 3:00 pm; Meeting begins 4:00 pm BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS: Registration begins at 9:00 am; Meeting begins 9:30 am Please contact to make meal reservations AMRH Phone: DBQAMRHsec@arch.pvt.k12.ia.us ~ ACCW-OFFICE~ Dubuque ACCW 1229 Mt. Loretta Dubuque, IA , ext. 209, Answering machine avai lable. For immediate business call