This image is symbolic of our CIRCLE OF LOVE program. By definition, a circle is a curved line with every point equal distance from the point of the center and bound together by the common interest. The seven point program of the CIRCLE OF LOVE is bound together by the common interest - LOVE

The small heart in the center is taken from the logo of the HEART SPEAKS TO HEART program. By utilizing this portion of the logo and part of the Heart Speaks to Heart program that is compatible with the Circle of Love, a smooth transition occurs.

The Cross and Crown in the center of the heart is the national symbol of the Order- the Catholic Daughters of the Americas.

The seven points selected indicate the needs of the Church and community best served by the Catholic Daughters. The program itemizes these needs with suggestions on how Catholic Daughters can effectively serve.

The "CIRCLE OF LOVE" program portions of this Web site are gathered to assist Catholic Daughters in working with the Church and community. We are indeed very aware of the needs in society that are deeply affecting today's generation, the elderly and human life. To be effective in promoting good works, we must reach out and make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering, whether it be through their own fault or the circumstances in which they find themselves. If we are to be "Jesus hands and feet" as is pledged in the Act of Consecration during the Installation Ceremony, then we must use the talents He gave us, become educated in new fields, volunteer our services and financial assistance where needed.

Local courts are asked to select those portions of the programs that their members feel comfortable working on in their area.  If many projects are selected, the task can become burdensome and little is accomplished. Members need to experience fulfillment when the projects are completed. This can happen when courts are selective in choosing their programs.

Many persons were involved in the formation of "Circle of Love". The National Board, members of the National Office and State Officers all had a part in the final adaptation. Thanks goes to each one of them.

Dear Ladies,

We are coming to the end of the 50-day Easter Season. During this time, we will all continue to celebrate Christ and take on whatever suffering our daily lives may bring. Although it will never be comparable to the agony our dear Jesus went through in the garden, we can honor Him through our dedication to our duties in life and without reserve, in faith. Let us remember that Easter is the constant reminder that God is always with us, and goodness conquers evil in the end, no matter what the obstacles may be put in our path.

The month of May is most popularly known as the month dedicated to honoring our Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. However, May 1st is the Feast of St. Joseph, the Worker. It was added to the Catholic Calendar in 1955 by Pope Pius XII because the dignity of work was being distorted by communism. So as our model of the dignity of work, may he inspire us to develop a good work ethic. Let us ask God, to instill in us the drive and passion in whatever work we do. Despite how tedious and difficult our tasks are, may we do them with a cheerful spirit for the glory of God. Other notable saints celebrated this month are the Apostles, St. James, and St. Philip (May 3), St. Damian (May 10), St. Rita of Casia (May 22), St. Mary Magdalene (May 25) and St. Philip Neri (May 26).

Pentecost Sunday is also celebrated in May. This day marks the birthday of the descent of the Holy Spirit on Mary and the Disciples. At that moment, it was “like the rush of a mighty wind” (Acts 2:2) and “then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them” (Acts 2:3). Now with the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, they would be empowered to recreate the world in the image of Jesus Christ through His Church. Let us continue their mission as present day disciples to spread Christ’s message of love and mercy that endures forever.

May is dedicated in a special way to honor and to seek Mary's intercession as Mother of God and Mother of the Church. With springtime bringing forth life, May is the perfect time to celebrate Our Lady. This is the month when all of nature rejoices with our Mother Mary, Queen of Heaven and Earth. In the medieval period, the rose was named as the flower of Our Lady’s Virgin Birth. How blessed we are that Jesus gave His Mother to us to be our spiritual mother here on earth. She is there to help those who open their hearts and minds to Jesus and to strive to serve Him. Keep in mind that our true devotion to Mary increases and enhances our union with our Lord Jesus. Just as Pope Paul VI believed in Mary’s intercession for all the world, she is always interceding for each one of us whenever and in whatever we need. Never forget that just as she loves Jesus, she loves us with an intensity that's unimaginable. May we persevere through our prayers and especially the Rosary to deepen our faith and gratitude for our Baptismal rebirth in Christ.

It is such an honor to be a Catholic Daughter knowing that Our Lady is standing by our side giving us guidance and protection. May we continue to ask for her intercession in all we do in serving our families and community. As Mother's Day approaches, I pray that God will be with all our Catholic Daughters who are mothers, grandmothers, etc. on their special day, blessing them with love, peace, and joy.

May God continue to bless you all today and always,

Blessings, Patricia Renick, Spiritual Enhancement

Announcement added into all our Parish bulletins in Santa Barbara
Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court Santa Barbara 293 congratulates all the students from our local Catholic schools who participated in the Catholic Daughters of the Americas National Education Contest.  The theme choices were “We walk by faith, not by sight” 2 Corinthians 5:7 or “When do I have to lean on my faith more than sight?" which students could render in the categories of poetry, essay, art, computer art, and photography. Over 350 students participated locally, and ten student entries from St. Raphael, OLMC, Bishop, and St. TCA were submitted to CDA state competition, five of which earned first place in their respective categories and advancement to the National Competition. It is inspiring to see these students’ willingness to take the time to complete their entries and meet the deadline. Their efforts speak volumes of their dedication to growing in their faith. CONGRATULATIONS!




Our Court has a great devotion to our Blessed Mother Mary. Who else has a collection of books on her?










We do!

At Catholic Daughters, we want to share our love of MARY and educate one another on the importance of EDUCATION of our Catholic Faith and to maintain these teaching through each of our Catholic Daugther Monthly meetings! Our Catholic Faith is everything to this group of ladies so we hope you come to learn more about our Santa Barbara Court and the rich history it has from the last 106 years!

Photo of a SB CDA Member's collection of Marian Books

At Catholic Daughters we believe in the FAMILY. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (2204), says "The Christian family constitutes a specific revelation and realization of ecclesial communion, and for this reason it can and should be called a domestic church."

Most of us are Mothers, either natural, adoptive or spiritural, so we want to support our CDA members during their journey as the heart of their home!

At every meeting we start with The Rosary.  Fr. Patrick Peyton, the self-acclaimed Rosary Priest, used to say, “The family that prays together stays together.” We know we are a family of sisters in Christ and understand how impactful this prayer is for families everywhere.

Join us next meeting so we can pray for your family! 

Photo taken at the MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in downtown Santa Barbara. CDA spotting with LEGOS

The Santa Barbara Court has been around since 1916! As we strive to grow, our members sign up and have an opportunities to Lead.  You can build skills and techniques of leadership and implement your talents as a future leader in our Court 293.

Do you have an interest in planning EVENTS?
Do you enjoy taking PHOTOS?
Do you have a few hours to VOLUNTEER with us?

We have our annual FALL GARDEN PARTY that we are always in need of assistance to set up. We DONATE FOOD to our local food drive, or DONATE CLOTHES to local students. Or we host a RETREAT in the spring.

Lots of events to help LEAD!

Please reach out if you have had experience before or are new to it! We welcome all seasoned and newbies interested in taking our Santa Barbara Court to the next level of sharing LOVE in our community!

Our obligation is to become better informed on public issues, addressing the morals and human dimension, while supporting church teaching on human life, human rights, justice and peace.

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas DO NOT ENDORSE CANDIDATES NOR ANY POLITICAL PARTY!

However, some are involved in calling into School Board meetings and follow City issues that arise, as well as a Rosary said at clinics in town to shut down life. We pray for guidance from the Lord to uphold the dignity of LIFE!

Railroad crossing Photo taken on State Street in Santa Barbara, CA

Quality of Life (Social Awareness) - issues of our program are the heart of our ministering to the needs of all people. We are called to reach out with compassion and support, to be helping hands where there is pain, poverty, sorrow and sickness. We are a unique Court which serves not just one Parish, but all 8 different parishes in our community.

We work with the Catholic Charities Food Pantry to supply food, especially during the Holiday season. And during the cold season we collect sweatshirts for students in need. Middle and High School students love Hoodies, so it's our Hoodies Drive of the year so they can stay warm! A new program we donated to was Wreaths Across America. This project provides wreaths at gravesites within our local Santa Barbara and Goleta Cemeteries during Christmas time.

During the Springtime, we have the opportunity to listen to various local non-profits and learn more about their organization so we can contribute more to those in need - either monetarily or with our time. 
 

Currently, Santa Barbara does not have a Junior CDA court, but we have scholarship opportunites via the National level!

There are requirements in order for you to apply (Catholic, attend a Catholic High School etc), but reach out to us if you would like more information.

CDA Light Bright Photo taken at the MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in downtown Santa Barbara.