Xavier Prieto A.

Today is April 20th, one year since the date I entered the Catholic Church. A reflection: It hasn’t been easy. In many ways, it’s been much more difficult. But despite the challenges, I can say with honesty, it’s been better. Entering the Church on my own was one of the hardest parts. I had been so used to “being on the same page” as everyone around me. I faced everything from indifference to staunch opposition. I left my community and what was familiar. Even something as simple as going to Mass became something I had to learn to do alone (although I had the BEST sponsor who I often went with). It’s been hard in other ways too. So much to learn. So much adjustment. So much temptation. So much more is being asked of me. But I didn’t want to stay where I was. I didn’t want easy, where it was comfortable, stagnant, simple. I wanted truth. And to grow, sometimes you will face trials. But He will give you what you need to persevere. And there’s a kind of strength that only comes when you don’t have the comfort and familiarity to rely on. One year in, and I’m still here, sometimes boldly and sometimes needing God and the saints to drag me. But I am thankful. I am thankful for the Church, the sacraments, the Catholic community, and to God for bringing me home. It has never been easy, but it has always been worth it. Be Catholic.