Submission for the Affiliate Happenings page can include a maximum of one photograph (not required) and a paragraph not to exceed 100 words. Please email to the NCCW office at nccw01@nccw.org. All submissions are subject to approval.
Note: This is not an area to submit an announcement of an upcoming program, rather, it is an area for affiliates to show the fabulous things our women have already done around the country.
Smoky Mountain Deanery (Knoxville, TN)
On March 14, 2026, the Smoky Mountain Deanery CCW of Knoxville, TN recognized 4 ladies with the Golden Rose Award, who exemplify spirituality, leadership and service in her church and community. The Golden Rose recipients, representing 4 churches in the Smoky MT Deanery are Anna Kate Coatney from Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Katelyn Witkemper from Holy Ghost, Karen Amayo Castro from Our Lady of Fatima, and Violet Grace Rapien from St. Francis of Assisi in Townsend. Karen Castro will represent The Smoky MT Deanery at the Knoxville DCCW Event on April 18, 2026 at St. Mary in Athens, TN. Pictured left to right are the recipients accompanied by a family member or friend: Anna Kate Coatney, Katelyn Witkemper. Karen Amayo Castro, Violet Grace Rapien
Madison DCCW (Verona, WI)
On March 19, 2026, the Madison Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (Province of Milwaukee) held its executive board meeting in Verona, Wisconsin. A key item on the agenda was planning for the upcoming 71st Annual MDCCW Convention, scheduled for June 2 at the Green Lake Conference Center. The convention committee members are: Front row: Jane Grinde, Patty Spragg, Sue Koch, Carol Rogers, Ellen Martin, Coreen MarkleinBack row: Sue Barker, Linda Ripp, Carolyn Zentner, Janel Nickel, Mary Ann Bush, Barb Mehling
North Platte Deanery (North Platte, NE)
The North Platte Deanery of the Grand Island CCW met at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Saturday, March 7. The attendees enjoyed a presentation by Deanery President Cindy Dunbar entitled, “Mary’s Garden and Praying with Poetry.” DCCW President Sandy Eggert and Omaha Province Director Patricia Ferguson presented “Building a Spiritual Garden.” Attendees placed flowers in a vase according to past and present roles at all levels of council. Both programs served as a prelude to the 2026 annual Spring Assembly, “Spring Spiritual Gala” at Holy Spirit Catholic Church April 20.
Oklahoma City ACCW (Oklahoma City, OK)
The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women of OKC held a retreat and service project event on March 14th, “Working in the Vineyard of the Lord.” The day started with breakfast and a spiritual reflection titled “Communion With The Saints” and given by Fr. Carson Krittenbrink. Other speakers spoke about different ways to be leaders in women’s ministries in the church, like Well Read Mom Book Club, Catholic Daughters, Women’s Bible Studies, and American Heritage Girls. Around $2000 worth of donated non-perishable food and hygiene items was collected to make over 150 Walk in Bags for Catholic Charities to give to those facing hardship.
Nashville DCCW (Nashville, TN)
St. Michael Catholic Historic Church, is the oldest Catholic Church in continuous operation since 1842 committed to their community service to “Open Door Pregnancy Center” Chili Challenge Cook-off fundraiser. St. Michael came in 1st Place among surrounding counties. Congratulations!
Our Lady of Fatima CCW (Alcoa, TN)
On March 2, 2026, the Our Lady of Fatima CCW in Alcoa, TN hosted a Women’s Night of Reflection and Confession. Fr. Joe Austin led a Lenten reflection on humility and pride. Afterwards, Fr. Joe Austin and Fr. Bill McNeeley were available for Confession while participants prayed the Rosary and meditative prayers.
Greater Meriden CCW (Meriden, CT)
The Greater Meriden Council of Catholic Women is hosting Stations of the Cross at 12 noon at St. Stanislaus chapel, St. Faustina Church. This event is well-received, especially by those who prefer daytime participation. GMCCW members take turns leading the service as part of our Lenten Mission. All are welcome.
Milwaukee ACCW (Milwaukee, WI)
Members from the Milwaukee Archdiocesan CCW honored several mothers of clergy members from the Milwaukee Archdiocese at the 3rd annual Tea for Moms of Seminarians and Priests. A delicious lunch of homemade tea sandwiches and desserts were provided by members of the board. A mother of two priests shared her heartwarming experience of her sons from their youth and when they discerned their journey to the priesthood. Fr. Brad Krawczyk, our spiritual advisor who teaches at the seminary, assured the mothers of how much their sons love them and speak of them. Everyone looks forward to this event each year.
Atlanta Province (Atlanta, GA)
On December 6, 2025 Alizon McLaughlin was awarded the Gartland Award. Alizon is a CCW member of The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Savannah GA. Alizon has served on the Council of Catholic Women in various levels wherever the council has needed her over the years. She has served as President for The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Savannah CCW President on both the Deanery and Diocesan levels and currently serves as the Province of Atlanta Secretary/Treasurer. The Bishop Gartland Recognition of Service is an honor bestowed by the Diocese of Savannah on persons who have given distinguished service to the Church in the spirit of its first bishop, Right Rev. Francis X. Gartland.
