Ryan Farrell has been on a special journey of faith throughout his time at OLSH. Upon receiving encouragement from his friends and teachers, Ryan decided to attend the Chi Rho retreat this past February. It was his experience at Chi Rho that persuaded him to convert to Catholicism. “That encounter completely altered my perspective. Although I have always believed in God, I have never truly had a strong faith relationship. Chi-Rho introduced me to that relationship with God, and ever since then, my faith has continued to expand,” Ryan said.

Ryan was invited to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion in the presence of his OLSH classmates and teachers at our weekly school Mass. His family was also invited to attend Mass, and proudly sat in the front row to witness his initiation into the church. Following Father Bill Dorner’s homily, Ryan was joined at the altar by Theology teacher Mrs. Nancy Jarocki, whom he had asked to be his Godmother and sponsor. Ryan professed his Baptismal Promises in front of his friends and family, and was officially anointed into the church. Later in the Mass, Ryan was the first to receive Holy Communion. “It was a very unique experience. I was struck by how happy and joyful the entire mass made me and my family feel,” Ryan shared. “I owe Mrs. Jarocki and Father Bill a huge thank you for not only assisting me in getting baptized, but also for being great Catholic role models.”

We are so overjoyed to welcome Ryan as the newest member of the Catholic community! Please pray for him as he continues on his new faith journey.