My relationship with my family changed

Last year, I made a decision to become a member of the Catholic Faith through the RCIA process.

Today, I am proud to tell you what the RCIA meant to me this past year. I was able to examine my life’s journey and its relationship to Jesus Christ.

I expected to learn about the time lines of religion and how the Catholic Church has evolved with its traditions and changes. Fr Ashton Pierre and the RCIA sponsors, along with a few other speakers coordinated by Norma St Rose and Irma Carter, did an excellent job.

But what happened to me personally was a surprise. My relationship with my family changed, and I found myself less judgmental and much calmer. I developed a lifetime relationship with two members of our parish who became my sponsors, Mr & Mrs Lee John. Many sponsors found a renewed faith by being involved with the RCIA process. It’s a wonderful way to minister within our community.

As the year moved on toward Easter Vigil, I found my relationship with Jesus growing stronger and stronger. I spoke of him often during the day at work and in the evening with my husband. I regretted I did not do this a long time ago; knowing Jesus is a heavenly feeling. He is always there with us; it’s up to us to allow him in our lives.

The well-known “Footprints in the Sand” picture resonates with me. I have been carried many times by God and now I look for opportunities to carry Him by spreading His word. I look for acts of kindness that I can do during the week, and then I would share them at the Monday night RCIA meetings.

The RCIA has been the main contributor to the best year of my life. I want to thank you for your prayers and your support for me and all the members of RCIA 2011. –  Jankie Andrews, Holy Trinity, Arouca