Social Service Focus of Catholic Daughters of Americas

As Catholic Daughters of Americas Court Regina Coeli 2063 of St. Jude Church in Baton Rouge prepares to commemorate its 50th anniversary in July, it is celebrating the myriad of opportunities it provides for women to develop their God-given talents in meaningful ways that positively influence the welfare of the church and community.

The St. Jude CDA court is one of 25 in the Diocese of Baton Rouge. The CDA itself is the oldest fraternal organization of Catholic women (18 years old or older) in the United States, providing individual, corporate, social and spiritual services on the parochial, diocesan, state and national levels. 

Loretta Britt, a member for the past 46 years of the St. Jude CDA, was a young, single mom training to be a Girl Scout leader when she noted with interest the novenas, prayers and ministries in which the Catholic Daughters were engaging. She joined upon a friend’s invitation and enjoys the community outreach component. 

Because she had struggled to provide for her daughter, Britt particularly is drawn to such activities as baby showers to collect gifts to donate to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge for mothers in need.

“As a single mom, I understand what it means when you run out of diapers and you don’t get a paycheck until next week,” said Britt. “You have to depend on charity.

“I had lost a job and was pregnant. I was shocked. I understand their journey.” 

She has “held every office there is” in the St. Jude court and coordinates its newsletter. Britt has attended many diocesan and national CDA events and most state conventions, where she has served as a delegate. She’s met many other CDA members and learned about their ministries as well.

Among other outreach ministries, CDA members visit residents at a Baton Rouge senior citizen living and rehabilitation facility. They provide prizes and the refreshments for the bingo games they share with the residents.

They also do a bake sale at the facility, with proceeds benefitting residents.

“A lot of the city’s poor live there,” said Britt. “Some of (the residents) do not have anyone to visit.”

Since its inception, the CDA has traditionally hosted Christmas and Easter parties at the Louisiana School for the Deaf in Baton Rouge. Party activities include a creatively adapted bingo game with the bingo cards containing pictures instead of numbers in the number slots. The caller holds up the picture for the participants to mark any corresponding pictures on their card.

“Even though the girls may not hear us, they have a good time. They recognize the ladies and they hug them tight,” said Britt.

For both young and old, Britt noted, “sometimes they just need a pat on the hand that conveys the love of God.”

The St. Jude CDA also supports Metanoia Manor, located in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, which serves victims of human trafficking. 

Wherever there is a need, the CDA is there, said Britt.

At St. Jude, when a family or person has lost a loved one, the CDA will lead the rosary at wakes and visit and console the grieving loved ones.

But the court is there to celebrate as well.

The Catholic Daughters host receptions for first Communion and confirmation, and other events.

“Sometimes Father Trey (Nelson, St. Jude pastor) will say, ‘I need someone to serve coffee (at an event),” said Britt.

They have a booth at the St. Jude Fair, with proceeds going to the church as a “thank you” to the parish community for its support.

For those looking to shape the future, the CDA members also mentor members of its Junior Catholic Daughters organization.

For Britt, the Catholic Daughters provide a well-rounded experience in serving various cross-sections of life.

“We have a lot of fun,” said Britt. “It’s a good mix of everything to make a joyful life.”

The St. Jude court also meets the spiritual needs of women through mornings of reflection. Jean Gatz, a national speaker, author and retreat leader, gave a presentation on “Unwrapping God’s Gifts in My Life” on March 26.

Her motivational talk urged attendees to reflect on their gifts and how they are going to use them; list their strengths, talents and abilities; maintain healthy relationships; and listen to God’s direction and guidance. There was time for journaling and sharing.

A Baton Rouge resident, Gatz began her journey with the Catholic Daughters as a St. Jude court member.

Having spoken at national conventions, Gatz heard God’s call to write, speak and lead retreats for Christian women and their relationship with God.

As a keynote speaker for clients in healthcare, corporate, education, government and associations during the past 30 years, Gatz has met many women who are disheartened and discouraged, weary and worn out. Balancing demanding roles and responsibilities, they never have time to laugh, relax and renew themselves in mind, heart and spirit.  

“I’m hoping the message spreads,” Gatz said about God’s love, care and special mission for women. More about her ministry can be found at
jeangatz.com.

Helping coordinate Gatz’ morning reflection was something CDA member Renee Beard was glad to do. She was invited to join the Catholic Daughters by Britt, who mentored her for 20 years in  various St. Jude ministries.

Beard believed coordinating the annual morning of reflection was a way she could utilize her organizational gifts as an accountant and bookkeeper. She serves as financial secretary for the St. Jude court.

“I have a love in my heart for the people who attended. I saw people who said, ‘I needed this,’ ” Beard said.

For more information about the St. Jude Catholic Daughters call Charmaine Biossat at 225-766-2431 or email [email protected].

For more information about the Catholic Daughters organization, visit its national website at catholicdaughters.org.