Five Ideas to Support MCCW and CWOC this Summer

By Elizabeth Tomlin

It’s PCS season, and Catholic, military women are moving across the globe.  This adventurous season in military life brings a chance for our Catholic communities to help spread the word and support MCCW and our Sisters in Christ.  Here are just five ideas to be a helpful steward of MCCW and our CWOCs this summer:

1. Invite a new friend! As you meet new friends, invite them to the MCCW or CWOC gathering at your installation.  Lots of groups are hosting summer meet-ups at the playgrounds, rosary groups, and ladies night out events.  I’m writing this from a hotel room, so I can say with certainty that newcomers are craving ways to escape PCS hotel-living and plug into a new faith community. 
2. Serve!  Whether you are new to an installation or staying put, the need for volunteers is great in the summer.  Installations need Vacation Bible School teachers and catechists for the fall. Background checks can often take some time, so sign up to serve early!  Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you toward where our Lord wants you to serve your community.
3. Introduce Your Priest to MCCW!  I’m often surprised at the number of priests who are not familiar with MCCW – we are, after all, the Archdiocesan women’s ministry. If your priest is not familiar with MCCW or CWOC, make an office call with him to talk about opportunities for your community to participate in MCCW events such as the fall retreats in the Southeast, Europe, and Asia.
4. Shopping time!  We know that PCS brings with it the need to buy new curtains, dish drains, welcome mats, electrical outlet covers, window boxes, hangers, area rugs, storage containers, and so many other supplies for the new house.  Don’t forget to shop Amazon Smile! When you visit smile.amazon.com, search for the Military Council of Catholic Women and designate MCCW as your charity. A small percentage of your purchase will be donated directly to MCCW to help us hold future Faith Formation Retreats and the 2020 Forum in San Antonio.
5. Start a Women’s Group at Your Chapel!  The summer is a great time to join hands with other Catholic women in your community and start a ministry if one does not already exist.  MacDill Air Force Base, for example, is just getting its women’s ministry off the ground. If the Holy Spirit is stirring your heart to build a community of faith with other women, jump in.  MCCW can help you – just reach out to faithformation@mccw.org.