A Stranger’s Invitation

Not everyone has to experience hardship to discover God’s grace, but that was certainly my lived experience. 2023 was one of (if not the most) challenging years of my life. I was completely absorbed in a world of stress, worry, fear, heartache, and coming to terms with the harsh realities I was faced with.

I knew that there was something missing in my life, but I wasn’t quite sure what it was. I had a pull on my heart towards faith, but I was overwhelmed and didn’t know where to begin. Thankfully, I didn’t wonder for long.

God soon came to me in the face of a stranger who offered me great solace, understanding, peace, and support. One day, he invited me to church, and I was surprised by how much I wanted to go. I had the feeling that I needed to take part in that Mass, and since that day, I have never stopped attending.

My religious experiences as a child were quite limited. Although I was baptized Catholic, I never really understood the Catholic faith or the Catholic Church until I started this transformative journey last year.

The OCIA group for 2025 after Mass during 2024.

As an adult pursuing education and growth in the church, I didn’t know where to start. Through a perusal of the St. Johns website, I was delighted to discover the existence of the OCIA program. I spoke with Deacon Randy on the phone and my excitement grew. I knew that this was the right place for me to be and I couldn’t wait to get started. At the first meeting I was completely overwhelmed with the supportive atmosphere, kind individuals, and feeling of belonging that I experienced.

Since this first class I have grown exponentially in my faith. Every day has turned into a joyous gift that I thank God for, and I see humanity on a much deeper level than I previously had the capacity to. I notice that I have more patience, understanding, and empathy for my fellow humans, and that I appreciate the unique beauty of all creation. I have never felt such peace or purpose in my life.

I now explore my faith through a mind and heart shaped by my life experiences, with a secure knowledge of myself, my values, my strengths, my weaknesses, and the things I want to contribute to my community. This opportunity to consciously pursue a life of faith has been a blessing beyond measure.

 I am forever grateful to my wonderful, stranger JJ, the Co-Cathedral of St. Johns, and my amazing OCIA class, which have all played an important role in placing me on this path to an enriching life of faith. I am immensely excited to be completing the sacraments of Confirmation and first Communion at this year’s Easter Vigil alongside all of these beautiful and impactful people.

Brenna Sharp

Participant in OCIA