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,
November is here and ushering in shorter days and cooler nights. I hope this finds everyone doing well and making time to gather with family and friends.
In our Catholic tradition, November is best known as the Month of Remembrance or Month of the Dead. It begins with All Saints Day on Nov. 1 st and All Souls Day on Nov.2nd . All Saints Day honors all the saints in heaven who have been recognized by the Church as well as those who have not been canonized. This feast was established by Pope Boniface IV on May 13 in 609 A.D. when he dedicated the Pantheon as a church in honor of the Virgin Mary and all martyrs. Later, during the reign of Pope Gregory III, it was moved to Nov.1st when he dedicated a chapel in Rome's St. Peter's Basilica in honor of all saints. We are encouraged to invoke the intercession of our blessed saints in all our needs and struggles. They are willing and ready to help - we just need to ask. Most of all, they desperately want us to join them in heaven for all eternity. Let us never forget these beautiful words spoken by St. Therese of Lisieux, "I want to spend my Heaven in doing good on earth." Also, let's recall the encouraging words of St. John Paul II, "Don't be afraid to be saints. Follow Jesus Christ who is the source of freedom and light. Be open to the Lord so He may lighten all your ways."
About November, it is traditionally dedicated to prayer for the Holy Souls in Purgatory. Especially on Nov. 2 nd, let's be mindful of the many souls who are still in need of purification from selfishness and other sins. Through prayers, fasting and offering works of charity on their behalf and above all, by offering Mass, the Eucharistic Sacrifice, we can help many souls get closer and closer to finally being taken up to heaven.
We are living in chaotic and uncertain times. Despite the many difficulties and hardships, we may now be enduring, God wants us to remember that He is there with us every step of the way. He is pouring His graces into our hearts especially through Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Communion, and more graces with every Communion we receive. He wants to form in us a virtuous heart that will have the strength to follow His will and not our own. Allow God to empower us in moving forward in our battle with sin and in so doing, may we be victorious in receiving the new life that Jesus wants to give us.
Thanksgiving Day will be here before we know it! As we begin to make all the preparations for this blessed day, may we create many wonderful memories that we'll cherish forever. On that day, let us give thanks to God for all the blessings He has bestowed upon us. I especially want to thank all my CDA sisters for enriching my life through the gift of their beautiful friendships and the many acts of selfless kindness that they've shown me through the years. I hope you all have a blessed Thanksgiving Day and that God showers His many graces upon you and yours.
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.