By Jessica Larson, MPM
Each year, the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (DCCW) convenes to unite the parish-level Council of Catholic Women (CCW) groups, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration for the greater good of the diocese. The 93rd Annual DCCW Convention, held in April 2024 at the serene Marywood Retreat & Conference Center in St. Johns, was no exception. Here, amidst the tranquil surroundings, members celebrated accomplishments, expressed gratitude to spiritual advisors and renewed friendships both old and new.
This year’s convention marked a leadership transition, with Najwa Liscombe, a dedicated St. Patrick’s Parish member in Gainesville, passing the gavel to the 2024 President, Pattie Halle, from Sacred Heart in Fleming Island. Reflecting on her tenure, Liscombe emphasized the privilege of working alongside strong leaders and expressed her eagerness to continue serving in various capacities. Halle, acknowledging the challenge of filling the shoes of her predecessors, voiced her hope to usher in a younger generation of women, guiding them to grow in spirituality and become faithful women of the Eucharist.
Established 104 years ago, the National Council of Catholic Women has been a proactive voice for Catholic women nationwide. Locally, the Diocese of St. Augustine, encompassing 17 counties in Northeast and Northcentral Florida, is home to 71 parishes, mission churches and chapels. DCCW comprises four geographical territories defined by the five diocesan deaneries. The territories group local parish-level CCW for support. Each parish CCW has its unique charisms, yet all are united by three core pillars: spirituality, leadership and service.
Spirituality
The first pillar, spirituality, is foundational to the DCCW’s mission. As Liscombe stated, the goal is to “Continue to follow the spiritual direction of Bishop Erik Pohlmeier, to reach out, one-on-one and bring hearts to Christ.” In a world where peace often feels elusive, maintaining focus on Jesus is essential. Members are called to share how Christ has transformed their lives, encouraging others to draw closer to him.
Halle echoed this sentiment, encouraging members to “Bloom where you are planted.” Through the CCW, women can forge deep friendships while collectively bringing others to Christ. “I am so grateful to have someone to pray with and for,” she said, highlighting the spiritual camaraderie that the organization fosters.
Leadership
The second pillar, leadership, empowers women to serve their parish communities and the broader world. The CCW provides mentorship opportunities, encouraging members to step out of their comfort zones and develop new skills. This mentorship fosters personal growth and ensures the continuity of strong leadership..
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has long recognized the importance of women’s active participation in the church’s life and mission. Each year, the DCCW participates in Catholic Days at the Capitol (CDAC) in Tallahassee, advocating for key issues and attending the annual Red Mass of the Holy Spirit. This year, the DCCW is particularly focused on defeating Amendment 4, an extremely grave, dangerous and deceptive amendment that poses a significant threat to pro-life protection in Florida. By engaging in civic responsibility, the DCCW demonstrates how faith can be translated into action.
Service
Service, the third pillar, manifests in numerous impactful initiatives. Over the past year, the DCCW has engaged in various activities, including feeding the unhoused, providing nutrition to children and supporting educational programs like the Girls Place afterschool program in Gainesville. Collaborating with organizations such as the Knights of Columbus and St. Vincent de Paul, the DCCW aims to meet the needs of priests and support the church’s mission.
One notable program is Hugs for the Homeless, which collects monetary donations to support local non-profits aiding the unhoused. Funds are pooled and distributed equitably across all seven dioceses in Florida, ensuring that both economically advantaged and disadvantaged areas receive support. This year, funds were sent by each territory to the selected organizations, such as St. Francis House in Gainesville.
Another vital service opportunity is Walking with Moms, whether at women’s centers, hospitals or the mothers in the pews. This service assists mothers by providing essential items like diapers, formula and even hot meals. This initiative, driven by the belief that supporting mothers brings them closer to God, demonstrates the DCCW’s commitment to accompaniment and community.
Liscombe’s favorite aspect of the DCCW is the simple act of mothers supporting one another. “Many people need a companion; motherhood can be very lonely without the support of friends,” she observed. “We have to get out of the pews and reach out and be the hands of Christ to others.”
As Halle begins her leadership year, she is already looking ahead and seeking her successor. She encourages any parish without a CCW to reach out for information on starting a local group. With a foundation built over a century ago, each parish group can tailor its activities to meet local needs, fostering a vibrant community of faith and service.
“We are extremely thankful to Bishop Erik Pohlmeier for his continued support and advocacy,” shared Liscombe.
In DCCW, prayer is a central component, underpinning all activities and ensuring that every effort is made for the glory of God. By embracing spirituality, leadership and service, the DCCW continues to walk with women, guiding them to live out their faith in transformative ways.
