Anchored in Faith: My Catholic Conversion and Beyond

Exploring the question, "Do Catholics Worship Mary?" ignited profound insights during my ninth RCIA class. Delving into this topic, I encountered a deeper understanding of the Blessed Virgin Mary's role in both the Old and New Testaments. The video session provided a comprehensive overview, shedding light on Mary's significance and the appropriate manner in which she should be revered. In our discussion, we explored the distinction between worship and veneration, recognizing that while worship is reserved solely for God, veneration entails honoring Mary as the Mother of Jesus and a model of faith. This reverence is manifested through various practices within Catholic tradition, such as the presence of statues depicting Mary, the recitation of the Holy Rosary, and the Hail Mary prayer, which seeks her intercession. As someone who has consecrated myself to the Blessed Mother, I have personally experienced the profound sense of comfort and guidance that emanates from her...

Delving into the profound significance of the sacrament of confession, my eighth RCIA class centered around the question: "Why Confess Your Sins to a Priest?" This enlightening session provided invaluable insights into the origins of this sacrament and its scriptural foundation. The video presentation meticulously explored the roots of confession, tracing its lineage through sacred scriptures and centuries of Church tradition. It elucidated the distinction between venial and mortal sins, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and repenting for transgressions to experience spiritual healing and renewal. Moreover, the session underscored the transformative power of confession, emphasizing how this sacrament offers solace and redemption to the faithful. By humbly confessing our sins to a priest, we not only seek forgiveness but also embark on a journey of self-discovery and moral growth. As I prepare for my first confession, I am filled with a sense of eager anticipation a...

In our seventh RCIA class, we delved into the profound mystery of the Eucharist, where Catholics believe in the real presence of the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Christ within the consecrated elements of bread and wine. Under the guidance of theologian Dr. Brant Pietre, our exploration reached new depths as we connected the dots between ancient traditions and the sacramental grace of the Eucharist. Dr. Pietre masterfully wove together threads from the Old Testament, revealing the parallels between the Passover and the Eucharist. It was a revelation that left me both shocked and deeply moved. The realization that these sacred rituals share profound similarities underscored the continuity of God's plan throughout salvation history. As I absorbed this profound revelation, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate tapestry of faith woven through time. The Eucharist, transcending mere symbolism, stands as the pinnacle of our Catholic faith, a sacred encounter with the living...

Following a rejuvenating holiday hiatus encompassing the joyous celebrations of Christmas and New Year's, I eagerly returned for my sixth RCIA class, where our focus shifted to the profound intricacies of the Bible and its organizational structure. Led by the erudite Dr. Pietre, our session unraveled the rich tapestry of sacred texts with depth and clarity. Dr. Pietre's insights illuminated the divine orchestration behind the composition of the Old Testament, underscoring its divine inspiration and significance as a testament to God's divine plan for humanity. Delving into the New Testament, he elucidated how the writings, while authored by human hands, were divinely inspired by God's guiding influence. One of the most riveting aspects of Dr. Pietre's discourse was his exploration of the Protestant Reformation's impact on the Bible's composition. With candor and insight, he detailed Martin Luther's pivotal role in reshaping the canon, which resulted in t...

If you've been following my journey, you're likely aware that I initially chose the confirmation name Ignatius, inspired by Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the revered Co-Founder of the Jesuits and the mastermind behind the Daily Examen prayer, a spiritual practice cherished by many. My affinity for Ignatius stemmed from his characteristic of generosity, a trait I strive to embody in various aspects of my life. However, upon further reflection, I realized the weightiness of selecting a name that would be etched in the Parish Records for posterity. After careful consideration, I made the heartfelt decision to forego Ignatius in favor of John Paul, in honor of the beloved Pope Saint John Paul II, born Karol Jozef Wojtyla.  Pope John Paul II holds a special place in my heart as he was the Pope I grew up with from childhood until his passing in 2005. His transformative leadership, marked by his progressive initiatives during Vatican II and his profound compassion, resonated deeply with m...

Happy New Year! As the dawn of a new year unfolds, many embark on the familiar journey of crafting resolutions, often revolving around personal growth or lifestyle changes. However, I opted to embark on a journey of spiritual consecration, dedicating myself to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In December, I delved into research on how to consecrate myself to the Virgin Mary, a decision inspired by a deepening desire to deepen my faith and spiritual connection. Through my exploration, I discovered the Militia of the Immaculata, an Official Sanctioned Catholic Ministry founded by Saint Maximilian Maria Kolbe, O.F.M. Conv., a revered Polish priest and martyr of the Church in 1917. Saint Maximilian Kolbe penned the act of consecration that I recited, marking my commitment to Mary's divine guidance and intercession. Additionally, as a member of the organization, known as a Knight of the Foot of the Cross (KFC), I also recited another act of consecration. This journey culminates in the receipt o...