As a cradle Catholic, I grew up knowing the Catholic faith and understanding it. However, I went through the motions and never truly knew what I was doing or not doing. More so I knew about Jesus Christ, but I did not know Christ personally. 

In college, it was the first time I had to choose Jesus myself. I would go to mass almost every Sunday, missing a few here and there, very content, just kind of coasting through life. I ultimately got tired of the worldly cycle and wanted more. 

In the summer of 2024 I finally built the courage to go to daily mass and I went to confession for the first time in about a year. The rest of that summer, I went to daily mass every day I was able, as I still do to this day.

For me, the mass is the beauty of being catholic with the Eucharist at the center.It was not one mass or homily that completely changed my perspective, rather a gradual appreciation and belief of Jesus with consistency. Looking back now, I can say that I was just beginning a relationship with Jesus, who I can now say I truly know as a Father.

With that, the more I believe I started changing what I surrounded myself with which also helps enormously. From the music I listen to, tv shows I watch, my social media usage, and the words I say, all must be to glorify God. Having a relationship with Jesus has allowed me to live a much freer, fuller, joyful life. And now, truly convicted, I want to help every single person I know, know Jesus as I do, especially my teammates.