The Czechoslovak Review/Volume 3/Convention of Bohemian Catholics

CONVENTION OF BOHEMIAN CATHOLICS.

The National Alliance of Bohemian Catholics which was established on February 6, 1917, for the purpose of cooperating with the Bohemian National Alliance in the campaign for Czechoslovak independence held a convention in Chicago on February 25th and 26th. The delegates present numbered 75, and in addition a large number of priests from many states attended.

The convention was called to order by the Rev. Innocent Kestl, president of the Alliance, who reviewed the activities of the organization during the past two years. Joseph J. Janda of Chicago was then elected chairman of the meeting, and Frank Šindelář submited a detailed report of his work as secretary of the Alliance for the past two years. From the report it appeared that the National Alliance of Bohemian Catholics had at present time 132 branches in the United States and Canada. Mr. Šindelář’s efficient work as secretary of the Alliance received the warmest approval of the convention. It was voted to continue the existence of the organization in the general interest of Bohemian Catholics, the head quarters will remain in Chicago. The next convention will be held again in Chicago in June 1920.

Officers elected for the coming term are as follows: John Straka, president: Joseph E. Mašek, Anton V. Tesař, Hynek Dostál, V. J. Jelínek, vice presidents: Rev. Frank Jedlička, chaplain; John Voller was elected secretary, since the present secretary refused reelection, Joseph Kopecký was elected for treasurer and Mrs. Rose Nedvěd, Mrs. Marie Novotny, J. J. Janda, Charles Radouš and John F. Novotný were elected members of the executive committee.