“I was raised Protestant but many of my childhood friends were Catholic and I distinctly remember being envious of their faith and the way it brought their families together. My life choices took me away from the church, yet I always felt faith was in me. I just never knew what direction it would take me and how it would grow. Thankfully, not too late in life, I met a woman who shared a similar connection to the faith community and is a member of St. Joseph’s (Renee Connor). Shortly after we began dating I indicated I would be interested in attending mass with her. She was accepting of the idea and I honestly had no clue how overwhelming the experience would be.
Less then 3 months after attending mass on a weekly basis and experiencing the welcoming community of St. Joseph’s, I knew this was the direction that I had been looking for. Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) was a way I could grow my faith and Renee was happy to accompany me as a way of strengthening her connection to the Catholic Church that she had been a life long member of.
The whole process of RCIA was an overwhelmingly positive experience. The RCIA Team was welcoming and encouraging at all times. Having Renee serve as my sponsor and accompanying me through the process allowed us to grow our faith as individuals and as a couple. This experience we shared enlightened me to the spiritual world and brought me closer to God then I ever had previously imagined.
Not only was the RCIA Team welcoming, but all others who were participating were encouraging and excited about the process. All were on their own specific faith journey yet we accompanied each in faith building. This included community outreach and service projects, as well as, internal opportunities to get to know our priests on a personal level.
The Easter Vigil was an exciting, emotional and powerful culmination to the RCIA process, but only the beginning of this new re-directed spiritual journey. I am so thankful for the experiences I had with the RCIA Team and the connection we made with the entire Pastoral Staff led by Father Jim.
St Joseph’s is truly an amazing community with much love in their hearts and perfectly in tune with God’s way.” Adam Greenly, currently serving on the Parish Pastoral Council
If you are interested in learning more about the journey for yourself or a loved one, contact Cathy Kamp, 585-586-8089 x.115. Or stop by the Gathering Space at St. Joseph's after any Mass!
