Catholic Women's League of Malaysia

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE

The Catholic Women’s League (CWL) was formed principally to strengthen the individual spirituality of its members and, through their collective strengths and efforts, to render meaningful assistance and help to the poor, marginalized and less-fortunate in society.

In the course of its journey over the past 55 years, the League has organized special days of Recollection, Bible Sharing sessions followed by praying the Rosary, celebration of the Eucharist every first Friday of the month, Holy Hour, visits to the poor, infirmed, aged and handicapped.

The Catholic Women’s League in Kuala Lumpur was inaugurated as a sub-branch of the Singapore Catholic Women’s League. It was originally based at the British Garrison Church which was, in fact, in a converted hut. Our first Spiritual Director was an Army Chaplain, Fr Lescher and founder members were expatriate women who lived in the area. The CWL has now spread to Sabah and to other parts of the world, including England, Australia and Indonesia.

1957 and Merdeka, with a depletion of members, brought with it the first hand swift blow that was to cause the flame of life to fade, to flicker. The CWL however became active again when it was transferred to St John’s Cathedral and elevated to a diocesan activity. Our past Spiritual Director was the late Fr Gilbert Griffon. Our present Spiritual Director is Fr Andrew Volle.

In keeping with the ecumenical spirit of the times, a great boost was given to the CWL, according to records, in February 1965. One of the first to claim attention was Bukit Nanas Orphanage. Members helped the Sister-in-charge of the Nursery and ran events to raise funds for the children. Little by little, the field of activity widened and the League made an effort to answer in some way or other any appeal addressed to it. Among these were donations of various gifts and assistance, as well as physical help given by members themselves.

In December 1967, under the leadership of the then President, Theresa Ee-Chooi, the League was registered in accordance with the provisions of the Societies Act of 1966. A constitution was drawn up and submitted to the Registrar of Societies. The CWL members were spiritually guided by sister Elizabeth Curran FMM and Father Frank Doyle.

The regular meetings of the League were changed to the first Friday of the month following the Mass at St John’s Cathedral. From then on, the CWL has faithfully observed the First Friday Eucharist and monthly meetings. Our meetings are now held at Assumption Church Hall, Petaling Jaya.

Fund raising has been an annual affair through the holding of Bazaars, Coffee Mornings and the sale of our own CWL Favourite Recipes Cookbook compiled by members. Besides helping the needy with the funds raised, we also donated two wooden houses to Fr Naden for the Orang Asli.

The CWL however, stands for much more. We are a group of concerned women and as such, our role also involves providing support to women and families who are continuously challenged by the pressures of life and society. We pray that we will continue to remain relevant and steadfast in fulfilling our mission and in providing the relief and support that we were formed to offer. We have reached 56 and as the next years unfold we can be sure that the challenges will be much greater and will demand much more from us. We pray that God will continue to bless us with the vision, the energy and resources to play a more meaningful role in the service of those in need. We also pray that our friends, benefactors and well-wishers will continue to bless us with the support we need in order to be faithful to our cause.

The cooperation, commitment and dedication of the members have made the League what it is today.

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