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"Women of Faith, Women of Action" is the theme for more than 600 Catholic women gathered for a national assembly this week in Salt Lake City.
The general assembly began with Mass at the Cathedral of the Madeleine, and the women received a warm welcome from Bishop John Wester.
The cathedral was filled with members of the National Council of Catholic Women, more than 600 representatives from throughout the country. This general assembly meets every two years to develop programs and leadership.
Members say they are seeking greater spirituality and education, knowledge that they can take outside the United States.
Joann Hillebrand, of Oak Brook, Ill., said, "We definitely reach out to women worldwide to try to better the life of women and children in particular."
This group represents more than 5,000 Catholic women's organizations, and the members are concerning themselves with both modern and age-old problems.
Judy Powers, of Palm Beach, Fla., said, "(We are) raising awareness about human trafficking. We're also very much involved in our Catholic Relief Services Partnership for the Order for Life, Madonna Plan, and those types of things. Another big thing is the awareness of the global changes. We have big things coming out on the climate changes."
Bishop John Wester welcomed them, speaking of Utah's warm hospitality. He told them today's world needs women of faith.
"We have been praying for you and thanking God for you. We pray that these days here are fulfilling and grace-filled and productive as you deepen the bonds that unite you, and as you continue to give great witness to your presence in our church and in our world," they were told.
The National Council of Catholic Women meeting continues through Saturday at the Sheraton City Centre. The title of the keynote speaker's address is, "Those Feisty Gospel Women!"
E-mail: cmikita@ksl.com
