39th Biennial State Convention of Catholic Daughters

State Chaplain Fr. Navil Rodriques is pictured in front.

The Montana Catholic Daughters of the Americas held their 39th Biennial State Convention at St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral in Billings on June 6–7.

Highlights of the Convention

The gathering opened Thursday evening, June 5, with a moving Scriptural Rosary at the Grotto of Our Lady of Guadalupe, located across the street from the Co-Cathedral.

On Friday morning, delegates and guests celebrated a Patriotic Mass honoring active-duty service members, military veterans, and their families. The Mass was offered by Retired Air Force Chaplain, Major Fr. Leo McDowell.

Saturday began with a reverent Memorial Service for Catholic Daughter sisters who have passed away since the last convention in 2023. The service was led by State Chaplain Fr. Navil Rodriques.

Throughout Friday and Saturday, four dynamic speakers inspired attendees with personal stories highlighting their involvement in both state and local charities. The convention concluded with a joyful banquet and awards ceremony.

Installation of State Officers

Following the Saturday evening Mass, newly elected State Officers were installed by 2nd Vice National Regent Nancy Bambenek. The installations began with State Chaplain Fr. Navil Rodriques and continued with the swearing-in of officers, assisted by the Past State Regent.

The installation photo (left to right) features:

• 2nd Vice National Regent Nancy Bambenek
• 1st Vice State Regent Stephanie Bearden
• State Treasurer Gale Kreitzberg
• Outgoing State Regent Patty Kepp
• State Regent Jo Ann Harper
• State Secretary Darcie Huppert

Looking Ahead

The 40th Biennial State Convention will be held in Havre in the spring of 2027.

To learn more about the Catholic Daughters of the Americas—or to bring a chapter to your parish—please visit catholicdaughters.org. State officer contact information can be found at the bottom of the homepage.