A young girl dressed in a white First Holy Communion dress with lace details, wearing a veil and tiara, standing outdoors at dusk with clasped hands.
A young woman with short dark hair and earrings, smiling for a selfie inside a vehicle.

It wasn't until high school that I began to question everything. I was trying to discover who I wanted to become, and I fell into some dark spaces. I convinced myself that it was acceptable to do wrong because God offers grace and forgiveness, but this only led to confusion and turmoil in my life. I started to wonder if God was real. After crying and feeling lost, I picked myself up, reached out to those who had always supported me, and returned to what I believed was God's plan for me. I realized that the more I let devil dictate my life, the less I engaged in activities that brought me joy.

I began going back to church, singing, and rediscovering my passions. I explored different denominations and churches, taking the time to understand what God had to offer me. Throughout my search, He guided me through dark valleys but also helped me rejoice in glorious moments.

In 2024, I started building a strong foundation with God. I delved deeply into the Scriptures and worship, allowing Him to take control of my life and shape my perspective on the world. In 2025, I attended my first Christian conference, surrounded by thousands of college students. There, I gained insights into how God moves in the lives of others, not just in our country but around the world.

Upon returning home, I felt God calling me to pursue something greater than I had before. The people around me affirmed that I was meant for more, so I prayed, worshiped, and sought God's vision for my life. He led me to prepare to become a missionary and serve Him. I am excited about the path he has laid out for me and the fields I am designated to explore.

White wooden cross on a wooden platform outdoors with trees and blue sky in the background.
A group of five young women taking a selfie indoors, with happy and playful expressions, including sticking out tongues and making peace signs.
Four children in school uniforms standing outdoors in front of a religious statue, smiling at the camera.

My Journey

When I was a kid, I always sensed God's presence around me. I felt everywhere, yet I had my doubts. I struggled to believe in what He could do for me and how much He could change my life. Growing up in a Catholic home in Maryland made faith a constant in my life. I attended private school, and my mom both worked and sang at our church. This meant that God was always present, or so I thought.

I felt as though God was behind the clouds. He was there, but I was so focused on fitting into society that I never understood the power He truly had. I felt like I was a mix of a church kid and a regular kid. I went to church every Sunday, helped with Vacation Bible School, and was heavily involved in worship, even cantoring during services.

Two people taking a selfie outdoors in front of green trees and a large white cross, under a blue sky with some clouds.
Two young women taking a selfie in a mirror in a bathroom. One woman is wearing a pink t-shirt and striped shorts, smiling. The other woman is wearing a white dress or cover-up, holding the phone. The bathroom sink and a soap dispenser are visible in the foreground, with a painting or picture hanging on the wall behind them.
A group of young people singing and playing musical instruments in a church, with a religious statue and candle on the altar in the background.
A young girl in a plaid school uniform with a white shirt and purple backpack standing on a paved path surrounded by greenery.
Two young girls standing indoors, smiling, with the girl on the right holding folders and notebooks, and the girl on the left holding a small bag or purse. The background includes a wall with some artwork and a door, with window blinds partially open.
Family group posing in a church with Christmas decorations, including poinsettias, Christmas trees, and a crucifix, during holiday celebration.
Group of seven women standing outdoors, wearing matching blue hoodies with text, posing with their arms around each other on a cloudy day.
Two young girls wearing hair nets and gloves stand at a food service cart. One girl is filling cups with a red beverage from a beverage dispenser, while the other girl observes. The cart holds cups, a tray of ice, and other serving items. The room has light-colored walls, a window with curtains, and chairs against the wall.
Three young girls standing together indoors in front of a black wall. They are smiling and wearing colorful casual clothing, including bright t-shirts and leggings, with headbands and face masks around their necks.
Five young women standing together indoors in front of a colorful display with cityscape and mountain graphics, smiling at the camera.
Three young women standing in front of a large whale sculpture inside a building with a high ceiling and concrete flooring.
A family group of seven people, including children and adults, gathered inside a church or chapel with wooden paneling, flowers, and religious symbols, for a celebration or special occasion.
A group of people, some wearing bright green shirts, is gathered around a table or desk with a laptop. One person is holding a shiny red gift bag. Behind them, there is a backdrop with a mountain landscape and a cloudy sky. The setting appears to be an indoor event or gathering.
A group of seven young adults sitting around a table at a large indoor event or conference, with many people seated at tables in the background.

I am now preparing for one of the most nerve-racking and exciting times of my life. As I wait and prepare for this new journey with the Lord, I have come to truly appreciate the little moments and the quiet time He provides. I recognize the challenges He presents to me during this brief period I have left in my hometown. However, I trust that wherever he leads me, I am in His hands, and I have nothing to fear.

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" - Psalm 27