Make A Difference

A few weeks ago I was asked to speak to the new RCIA class at my parish.  I completed that program almost a year ago.  For those that are not familiar, RCIA is an adult CCD program.  It is a very in depth class culminating in receiving the three main Sacraments at the Easter Vigil, rather than receiving them over a span of years like children do.

I was honored to have been asked to give my testimony, but was also very nervous.  Speaking in front of a group of people known, or unknown to me, has always stirred my anxiety.  I spent the last few weeks desperately trying to come up with something encouraging and inspiring to say to the catechumen.  I mulled over a plethora of ideas, none of which seemed so great.   While they served their basic purpose of complimenting the program and its wonderful, voluntary teachers, they were less than awe inspiring.  I needed a fire!

I prayed and prayed asking Christ to help me.  I needed a speech, not too long and drawn out and not so short as to give the appearance of dismissiveness.  I felt a bit overwhelmed.  I mean, becoming a Catholic is beautiful for yourself of course, but what does it really mean to be a Catholic or a follower of Christ in any denomination?  It means becoming a disciple.  Christ called us to evangelize, to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all the world.  We are called to be different and to make a DIFFERENCE.

This morning I brought my daughter to her usual mass to join her choir and left her in the care of her doting father.  I was to speak to the class during that mass.  I kissed her goodbye and made my way to the rectory.  My heart was pounding, and I felt physically awkward, but excited to see the new faces.  I couldn't go directly in.  I needed another moment to speak with the Holy spirit and ask Him again to speak what they needed to hear through me.  I was on fire!!!  I felt His presence coursing through me as I delivered words in a fashion only He could have!  Praise be to God!

I was told I was welcome to stay for the rest of the class if I wished.  I considered quietly leaving and getting the tail end of my daughter in the children's choir but He wanted me to stay.  I was blessed at the end of class when a young lady approached me and told me that she felt a connection to what I had said; that it resonated with her.  My prayer had been answered!  Christ, through me, made a difference!!!

I am the one who was blessed. These fresh faces give me hope when we are surrounded by so much darkness.  I now understand the joy of watching catechumens become Catholics.  Praise the Lord and may He bless you!!!