Our Lady of Lourdes Church and School

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I had never really wanted to go to church or do Bible study”, so when RCIA said that I needed to do both EVERY week, I was a little overwhelmed with the commitment I was about to make.  When I came to RCIA, I had very little faith and a lot of questions.  The RCIA team, my girlfriend (now wife), and my sponsor Frank helped to cultivate and guide me through my faith formation.  They answered countless questions and reworded answers again and again so that I would understand.
The Holy Spirit had ignited my passion for Christ and throughout the process of RCIA, I found myself looking forward to both Church and Bible Study.  I had less questions and more faith with each week and I started to prepare myself for my sacraments.  Upon being baptized at Easter Vigil, I felt the Holy Spirit instill within me a deep sense of peace and purpose.  
I had found my home; the Catholic Church is where I was meant to be. 

After RCIA I was married to my wonderful wife Alice, who has been the most instrumental in my faith formation.  With the help of OLL seminarian Peter Suacedo, we were able to receive a Sposi Novelli (newlywed blessing) from Pope Francis, and even got to meet with him face to face in Italy for a blessing of our wedding rings and rosaries.  Newlywed, and full of the blessings of God and our blessed Pope Francis, we are filled with a deeper connection to each other, the Church, and to God.
Looking back, I have to give my thanks and gratitude to the RCIA program.  They took a man with faith the size of a mustard seed, and showed him how to grow in Christ.
Forever grateful,
John

I was inspired to go through the RCIA process from experiencing the faith of my family at Our Lady of Lourdes. I’ve been involved with Our Lady of Lourdes parish and school for many years. After seeing my family’s love for the catholic faith and their involvement in the environment and youth ministries I was motivated to follow my own path and build a relationship with Jesus. Through RCIA I have found the love Jesus provides and the communion of Catholics at OLL. In this program I now understand Jesus has always been a part of my life and I can see how the Holy Spirit helped me through the difficult times in my life. Through my faith formation and this religious education I can find peace when I have troubles and know Jesus is there for me when I experience troubles in my life in the future. The journey of RCIA was a wonderful experience and a journey which will never end where I continue to follow the light of Jesus. The RCIA team led by Sr. Sharon is the reason this program is so inspirational and an amazing way to experience our faith.    --        Bill Bianchi

Any questions please call Sister Sharon 818-349-2836,
aff@ollnr.org