Thank you.

Samantha-Jayne

I have been a member of this parish since my daughters were born, nearly 14 years ago. Having married my husband in a Catholic church, I vowed to raise our children as Catholics even though I was baptised as Church of England. Whilst always feeling welcomed at Holy Cross, I have always felt somewhat of an outsider not being Catholic and not fully part of the family or belonging. Then, last summer, a familiar parishioner pointed out the RCIA notice in the newsletter to me and my journey began.

The first meeting was a little bewildering with new people and discussions about sacraments with words I didn’t fully understand at first and trying to find verses in the bible. However, very quickly, the six of us, along with the Catechists developed a friendship which has enabled us to share our experiences openly and ask questions that we once thought were ‘silly’ or ‘obvious’. The weekly groups soon became a part of my week that I looked forward to. I realised that I knew more than I thought about scripture, and I started piecing it all together.

Mid-way through we attended St George’s Cathedral for the Rite of Election to become Catholics. This beautiful service was delivered by Archbishop John Wilson who himself is a convert to Catholicism. It was a special moment as we were informed that we were each one of the record number of catechumens and candidates for ten years. We celebrated afterwards with a drink in a local pub together.

As our journey continued, we then entered Holy Week which was even more significant for us as this marked the moment we became Catholics. The mass on Maundy Thursday was very moving. Having discussed the importance of the events leading up to the Lord’s Passion, I felt I had a better connection with the Church. The opportunity to reflect on how far I had come on this journey made me even more grateful for this connection. Finally, the big day came, Easter Saturday vigil. I felt a level of nervousness and anticipation at the service. However, knowing that I was with my new friends that had traveled this journey with me, and the support of the catechists made me feel more at ease. Standing outside by the fire in the darkness with only the glow of the candles for light was a truly magical moment that I will never forget. I remember looking around at everyone and feeling so grateful and happy to be a part of this celebration of the sacrifice Jesus has made for us. Then, receiving the Eucharist for the first time was THE big moment – after years of watching everyone else receive, it was now my turn. I remember feeling quite nervous as I now understood the importance of receiving Christ in this way as I too became part of Him. Once we had all received our first Holy Communion, I felt an overwhelming feeling of happiness and connection with Christ. And as I looked at everyone, including the group, I knew that I now belong in this special family.