Rosalie Donachie Celebrates 60 Years of Faithful Service in CWL

by Admin · August 27, 2025

Rosalie Donachie Celebrates 60 Years CWL

Rosalie Donachie Celebrates 60 Years of CWL Service

By Vimbai Vakisai – Holy Trinity parish in Durban Catholic Women’s League proudly congratulates Rosalie Donachie for an extraordinary 60 years of dedicated service to the Church and community.

Rosalie’s involvement with the CWL began naturally, having been a Child of Mary as a teenager. In 1965, after returning to South Africa and settling in Witbank, she was warmly welcomed by CWL members who invited her to join. At 27, with two little boys, this was a wonderful way for her to connect with the parish, she recalls.

After moving to Durban, Rosalie joined the Woodlands Branch, where she served as Committee Member, Treasurer, President, and even Durban Diocesan Vice President. When she later moved to Holy Trinity, it was at her very first meeting that Kay Rademeyer and Colleen Madden encouraged her to become Vice President. At Holy Trinity, she went on to serve two terms as President and also took on the role of Secretary.

Throughout the years, Rosalie has served in nearly every CWL role—from committee member and treasurer to branch president and Durban Diocesan Vice President. She fondly remembers initiatives like serving First Communion breakfasts and selling blankets, and cherishes the strong sense of fellowship that the CWL brings.“Being in the CWL is like being part of a family, wherever you go, you’re welcomed.”

One of her most memorable experiences was attending the National Conference as Durban Diocesan Vice President in Johannesburg, where she learned first-hand how important it is to carefully word Resolutions to ensure they pass. Her passion for service has never faded, even washing cups or peeling potatoes becomes joyful when done in community.

Rosalie is deeply grateful to her Associate Member, Phil, who has supported and assisted her in her duties from the start.

She also reflects with pride on the 25 years she and her husband Phil have faithfully spent selling The Southern Cross at the parish. What began as part of their work in the Repository has become a deeply rooted ministry. Her favourite Southern Cross issue was from six years ago, featuring her great-grandson on the cover, playfully claiming Cardinal Napier’s last pancake at the Comrades Marathon!

While celebrating this extraordinary 60-year milestone, Rosalie remains passionate about the CWL’s future. Her commitment, warmth, and leadership have left a lasting legacy. The CWL community and parish are truly blessed to have Rosalie and Phil as pillars of faith and service.