Toledo Diocese Council of Catholic Women brings women together in faith and service
For nearly a century, the Toledo Diocese Council of Catholic Women has brought together women’s parish organizations and individual Catholic women from across northwest Ohio to grow in faith and serve the Church.
Organized April 11–12, 1928, the council represents the 19 counties of the Diocese of Toledo under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Toledo. Its work includes helping women understand current societal and moral issues in light of Catholic teaching and preparing them to respond as they serve their parishes and communities.
Through annual gatherings and service opportunities, the council also gives women a chance to form friendships beyond their own parishes. Its activities align with the mission of the National Council of Catholic Women: to support, empower and educate Catholic women in spirituality, leadership and service.
“I see such a need for our organization today,” said Jeanne Crumrine, the council’s new president. “We have great potential to build faith, community, and support for vocations.”
The council holds four annual events featuring speakers, prayer and fellowship. Its Spiritual Day of Renewal and Fall Conference include opportunities for Mass, confession and resource sharing, along with support for seminarians and consecrated women.
The annual Mother Theresa Volunteer Recognition Luncheon honors individuals for their service to parishes and communities. It is a particular favorite of Crumrine’s.
“Each year I am so inspired and motivated by the individuals recognized for their service to their parishes and communities,” she said.
The gatherings also give women time to pray together and get to know one another. One board member has described friendships growing among women who share rides to council events. Crumrine, who first attended a Fall Conference in 2021 at a friend’s encouragement, said praying alongside other Catholic women has been especially meaningful in her own faith.
“I am inspired by the women who encourage the spiritual growth of others through their witnessing and their true love for one another,” she said.
As president, she hopes more parishes will bring groups to council events and that women will feel comfortable attending on their own. There are also opportunities to volunteer, serve on a committee or represent a parish or deanery.
“We are here to serve both groups and individuals,” Crumrine said.
An upcoming opportunity to meet other women of the diocese is the council’s Annual Christmas Tea, hosted by Sacred Heart Parish in Fremont on Sunday, December 6, at 2 p.m.
The tea will take place in the Sacred Heart Narthex, 500 Smith Road. It is free and open to all women of the diocese. Those attending are asked to bring a nonperishable food item for the Sandusky County Food Pantry.
To register, complete the online form or call 419-615-2298 by December 1.
Posted November 10, 2026 at 10:36 am