By Jessica Easthope
Building a connection with Christ can take a lifetime, but taking that first step toward one can happen in an instant.
“The presence of God. It was like I felt him with me. And I felt like so like faithful and happy that I was here today,” said sixth grader at Divine Wisdom Catholic Academy, Alexandra Olscewski.
Alexandra and hundreds of other Diocese of Brooklyn students got to explore their own personal relationships to Christ at Holy Family Church’s annual eucharist and prayer rally, Wednesday.
Through music, prayer, talks and a procession around the Fresh Meadows church, students had their own encounters. Pastor, Father Sean Suckiel says the message is clear.
“It’s the truth. The truth is that God loves them. And this is a message that they need to hear often. They’re made to be loved and that they are a gift to others,” Father Sean said.
Superintendent of Diocese of Brooklyn schools, Deacon Kevin McCormack says the closer students get to the eucharist the sooner they can find their life’s purpose.
“The Eucharist is what makes Catholics different. It’s the source and summit of our whole life. And here it is. We get to spend time giving thanks to God for that great gift,” said Deacon McCormack.
And at the rally the students spoke about a kid just like them and how the eucharist transformed his life. After learning more about Blessed Carlo Acutis ahead of his upcoming feast day – inspiration was flowing.
“It really inspired because, like, if I follow down the same path that he went down, I could become Saint. I just need to keep praying and keep going to church,” said sixth grader at Divine Wisdom Catholic Academy Matthew Roder.
Blessed Carlo Acutis is expected to be canonized next year, his feast day is celebrated on October 12.