Testimonials

I am a convert to the Catholic faith.  I entered the Church at Easter Vigil 2013.  In January of 2015 I was approached about attending a renewal weekend called Christ Renews His Parish.  My initial reaction was that I should not go.  As a recent convert to the faith, I didn't think I had been Catholic long enough to need a retreat. 
 
However, I realized that in the year and a half I had been Catholic, I had not really made any friends, nor did I participate in parish life. I came to Mass, always sat towards the back, and was isolated.  I struggle with depression, social anxiety, and PTSD.  I did not think I even had the courage to attend a retreat.  I managed to swallow my fear and went to the renewal weekend retreat.  The retreat, and the formation opportunity following the retreat, has left an indelible mark on my life. 
 
Formation allowed me the opportunity to recognize my own gifts and experience the grace of God in fellowship with other men.  After formation, I found that I was able to participate more actively in Parish life.  I am better able to deal with my own mental illness, and am able to proclaim the Word of God at Sunday Mass.
 
I thank God everyday for Christ Renews His Parish.
 
In Christ,
RJ
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I got frustrated about attending mass regularly at SMG but not feeling a part of the parish.  One Sunday in mass there was an announcement about a retreat.  I signed up realized thereafter that I just resigned myself to spending a weekend with a bunch of strangers . . . people who are disconnected just like me.
 
What a difference a weekend makes.
 
Over a year later and I'm very involved in the parish.  Anytime I step foot on campus I run into someone I know.  God connected me with so many wonderful people and now I can truly call Saint Maria Goretti a home!
 
MM