Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Holds 99th Annual Convention
Nearly 100 women, including 11 from St. Francis Xavier Church (SFX) in Gettysburg, gathered Saturday at the Diocesan Center in Harrisburg for the 99th Annual Convention of the Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (CCW). The event also marked the celebration of 100 years of the Council’s faith and service.
Keynote speaker Alyssa Bormes, a theology teacher at Chesterton Academy, reflected on her experiences in Rome during the passing of St. John Paul II. She urged women to embody a spirit of welcome in today’s society.
A special Mass was celebrated by Reverend Ted Keating in place of Bishop Timothy Senior, who is currently in Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis. Attendees prayed for the late Pope and began the Church’s traditional nine days of mourning. A commemorative book was also available for attendees to sign in honor of Pope Francis.
Throughout the day, participants attended breakout sessions that included rosary making, exploring personality styles, and a presentation by Sister Tracey Catherine Uphoff, IHM, on the call to religious life. Religious vendors were present, and attendees received commemorative totes featuring bedazzled “100” glasses.
Terri Gelles, a member of St. Francis Xavier Church, was honored with an award for her dedicated service to the Council. The day concluded with Angela Bassi of the Black Apostolate Choir leading the singing of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.
The 100th Annual CCW Convention is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in occupational therapy and volunteers with local organizations.