Organizations | Saint Joseph Parish

Catholic Women's League

The Catholic Women's League of Canada (CWL) is a national organization of Catholic women dedicated to faith, service, and social action. Founded in 1920, the League brings women together to grow spiritually, support their parish communities, serve those in need, and promote justice and peace.

St. Joseph's Catholic Women's League celebrated its 25th anniversary in June 2026. Guided by the C.W.L. mission "to call its members to grow in faith and to witness the love of God through ministry and service," the women of St. Joseph's put their faith into action through kindness, fellowship, and generous service to the parish community.

Their good work is seen in many meaningful ways, from hosting funeral receptions and helping with parish activities to supporting students, families, and individuals in need. Through outreach such as school sneakers, bursaries for graduates, and Christmas drives, members offer practical help and caring support where it is needed most.

In June of 2022 the League began a monthly 50/50 draw. With the ongoing support of the parishioners, this fundraiser has helped the League pledge $100,000 to the St. Joseph Vision 2020 project, as well as improvements to the hall, kitchen, church entrance and office building.

Women of the parish are invited to learn more about the Catholic Women's League and the many ways this dedicated group continues to serve St. Joseph's and the wider community with faith, compassion, and generosity.

What We Do

Funeral Receptions

One of our most important services is hosting funeral receptions whenever families make this request. We feel this gives family members an opportunity to gather and receive support, which is an important part of their healing process after the death of a loved one.

Catering & Community

We cater to priests and deacons of the diocese by providing meals for their meetings and general assemblies. When asked, we also cater to other community organizations.

Student Bursaries

Each year we donate bursaries to two graduating students at SAERC. These students are selected by the school administration.

St. Joseph's Closet

We purchase sneakers for St. Joseph's Closet, which are distributed each year in August before the new school year begins.

Christmas Giving

Instead of exchanging gifts at Christmas time, we choose a service organization in the community, and our members bring in items that this organization can distribute to individuals in need.

50/50 Monthly Draw

In June of 2022, we started a 50/50 monthly ticket draw. From the revenue received, we have pledged $100,000.00 to the St. Joseph Vision 2020 project and contributed to the upkeep of the kitchen in the parish hall.

CWL in Action

Items donated to Community Services at Christmas time (2024)

Sneakers donated to St. Joseph's Closet for back to school

Our Members

(Back Row, Left to Right) Janice MacKinnon, Alice LeBlanc, Sandra Roberts, Suzanne Pottie, Sandra Praught (Middle Row, Left to Right) Fr. Joby Augustin, Thelma Forbrigger, Joan Kehoe, Norma Pitre, Jeannette Rizutto, Maurina Martens, Mary MacDonald, Grace MacDonald, Louise Campbell (Front Row) Debbie Rudolph, Valerie MacKenzie, Sharon Britten, Marlene Ryan, Anne Ferguson (Missing from Photo) Nancy Day, Joan Forbrigger, Gwen Fougere, Maurina Lewis, Jo-Anne MacDonald, Muriel MacDonnell, Cheryl McDaniel, Martha McDonald, Patsy Mooring, Carol Wadden

CWL Executive

January 2025 – January 2027

President

Grace MacDonald

President Elect

Maurina Martens

Secretary

Sandra Praught

Treasurer

Jeannete Rizzuto

Spiritual Director

Louise Campbell

Join the CWL

We always extend an open invitation to all women of the parish to join us. If you are interested in becoming a member or would like more information, please contact the parish office.

902-625-1045

Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus is an international, lay-led Catholic fraternal service organization founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney. Composed of men from all walks of life, the KOC is committed to living out the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism while supporting the spiritual growth and development of its members.

Being a Knight offers men a unique opportunity to grow in their faith, develop leadership skills, and make a meaningful difference in their parish and community. Members are encouraged to be actively involved in their faith journey, participate in charitable works, and support fellow parishioners and those in need.

Cape Nova Council 7924

The local council affiliated with St. Joseph's Parish is Cape Nova Council 7924. It has been active in Port Hawkesbury since 1981, establishing nearly half a century of faith-based volunteerism and community support. The council engages in a wide range of activities and initiatives that benefit the parish and the wider community. These include organizing charitable fundraisers, providing financial and volunteer support for parish events, and assisting with outreach programs, including food banks and scholarships for students.

Cape Nova Council 7924 was awarded the prestigious Columbian Award for its outstanding year-round programming, charitable initiatives, and adherence to the organization's core pillars.

Grand Knight

Joe Praught

When We Meet

Second Tuesday of the month in the Thibeau Room at 6:30 PM.

Join the Knights

For more information about becoming a Knight, please contact the Grand Knight or the parish office.