.png)
Growing up Catholic, my faith journey was a somewhat routine experience. I was baptized, received my First Communion, and eventually chose to be confirmed, but something was missing. I lacked a personal connection with God. It wasn't until later in life that I embarked on a path to rekindle my faith. In this blog post, I'll take you through my unique journey, from going through the motions to rediscovering my faith in a more personal and profound way.
Early Years: Going Through the Motions
My early years in the Catholic faith were marked by tradition and ritual, but not necessarily by a deep connection with God. I was baptized, received my First Communion, and did so at an older age because I wanted it to be a decision I made for myself. I had always been curious about matters of faith, but I didn't fully understand what it meant to have a genuine relationship with God.
I owe a great deal to my mother and godmother for allowing my faith journey to be a personal one. They never pushed me into anything, giving me the freedom to explore my spirituality at my own pace.
Confirmation and a Fateful Decision
At the age of 16, I made the decision to be confirmed. However, that day was marked by anxiety and doubt. Looking back, I now understand that the Holy Spirit was gently pushing me away from that choice. Although it was ultimately my decision, I felt it might not have been the right one for me.
Wandering Away
After my confirmation, I fell away from my faith. From the ages of 17 to 22, I was living life on my own terms. While I didn't descend into a life of wild partying, I did make choices that weren't beneficial for me, especially in my relationships. During this period, I had no real structure or spiritual guidance in my life.
The Nagging Voice
It was during these wandering years that I began to experience the unmistakable voice of the Holy Spirit. I didn't recognize it at first, and it felt like a nagging voice in my head. It urged me to return to church, but initially, I found it more annoying than enlightening. I want to emphasize that, when you're new to your faith, the Holy Spirit's voice may not be immediately recognizable. It might feel like an intrusive thought rather than divine guidance. However, the persistence of that voice is a sign that it's something more significant.
The Journey Back to Church
Eventually, that nagging voice led me to find a young and vibrant church online. My return to church was a personal journey, one that I embarked on by myself. I kept it a secret for the first few visits, making sure this was a commitment I truly wanted to pursue. I didn't want external influences to sway my decision, and I was determined to establish a genuine connection with God. As I continued attending church, my faith deepened, and my journey became more credible to those around me.
Rediscovering Purpose and Growth
Since my return to church, I have experienced immense personal growth. The confusion and instability that marked my years away from faith have been replaced with a firm foundation. I now have a clear sense of self and purpose, and I've learned to make wiser decisions.
Conclusion
My journey from going through the motions of faith to rediscovering a personal connection with God is a testament to the power of intuition and the persistence of the Holy Spirit. It serves as a reminder that God's guidance can come in unexpected ways and that it's vital to follow that nagging voice when it urges you towards a more meaningful spiritual journey.
My hope is that my story can inspire and encourage those who may be questioning their faith journey or feeling the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit. There's incredible transformation awaiting those who choose to listen and follow their hearts.