Clifton Branch celebrate their Centenary

On Saturday 2nd May CWL ladies from around the Clifton Diocese came together at Sacred Hearts RC Church in Cheltenham to celebrate the Branch Centenary.

The day started with Mass and after Section Banners had been processed into the church Bishop Declan Lang, Bishop of Clifton  and Bishop Peter Doyle, Bishop of Northampton and Ecclesiastical Advisor to the CWL, celebrated Mass.  The address was given by Canon Alan Finley, Spiritual Advisor to the Branch.  He called the CWL the ‘Catholic Welcomer’s League’ as members are always there with a welcoming smile for those we meet whether it is by providing services to the elderly, supporting families of the Armed Services, helping Refugees and Asylum Seekers and to visiting those in prison.  He went on to say that the League was at the forefront of ecumenical work, serving and supporting within the community.

After Mass Mrs. Pat Farrell, Branch President, invited members and guests to lunch in the parish hall.  Guests included Mr. Robin MacDonald, Mayor of Cheltenham, Mrs Doreen Pooley, CWL National President,  other members of the National Executive,  Mrs. Peggy Hoare-Davies, CWL Cardiff  Branch President and Mrs Christine Pugh, CWL Westminster Branch President.

After lunch Bishop Peter addressed the gathering praising the League and the work we do.

Mrs. Doreen Pooley then thanked the ladies for all the hard work they do within their parish and communities before cutting the celebratory cake.

It was a day to be remembered by all those who attended; a day when we met up with old friends and made new ones.

Jean Coombs
Branch Liaison Officer

Canon Alan Finley, former Branch Spiritual Adviser, enjoying the occasion

National President cuts the celebratory cake

Procession out of church after Mass

Branch and Section Banners assembled outside Church

Mrs Pat Farrell welcomes the Lord Mayor of Cheltenham and his wife

Branch Officers and the National President

The CWL meet on a monthly basis and is always open to new members of all ages.  You would become a member of an active, thriving group of ladies who enjoy life and are always there to serve parish and community.

If you are interested in joining the CWL you can access the national website at catholicwomensleagur.org or locally you can contact Elizabeth Macnamara at emacmanara@tinyonline.co.uk      

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