In the past few months that I have been working at Ablaze Ministries, I have learned, accomplished, and grown so much more than I would have imagined. Since I have taken the position of Confirmation Coordinator, I have been in charge of organizing and implementing Confirmation classes for 10th grade high school students. This preparation time consisted of 6 regular, 2-hour sessions, a weekend retreat, and a “Day of Reflection.” I planned each of these events and was responsible for carrying each event out, as well as logistically organizing the sessions, retreat and Day of Reflection. Some tasks within each of these included finding speakers, or planning a talk, myself, recruiting small group leaders, setting up for the event, and organizing activities within each.
My first implementation of each of these events was a success, as the Diocese of Austin’s Bishop Joe Vasquez confirmed the 55 students in my program on Sunday, October 23. The students were readily prepared and received the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Catholic Church. In looking back at the experience, since the first parent meeting on August 29, I can honestly say that I have never felt so stretched, nor so accomplished. This position has pulled me outside of my comfort zone, and in turn, has given me confidence in areas where I lacked confidence prior to this position—such as in public speaking and being in a leadership position in such a present way.
In addition, I have begun to understand the missionary mindset that is involved with working as a missionary with Ablaze. This is something I was skeptical about in the beginning, but honestly, as I have continued on in this ministry and invited others to partner with me, I have a new appreciation for being a missionary. It is a beautiful thing to invite others to partner, and have a share in, such a needed ministry. Through financial and prayerful support, each Ablaze missionary's ministry is able to thrive and bring youth toward Christ in such a powerful way.
My first implementation of each of these events was a success, as the Diocese of Austin’s Bishop Joe Vasquez confirmed the 55 students in my program on Sunday, October 23. The students were readily prepared and received the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Catholic Church. In looking back at the experience, since the first parent meeting on August 29, I can honestly say that I have never felt so stretched, nor so accomplished. This position has pulled me outside of my comfort zone, and in turn, has given me confidence in areas where I lacked confidence prior to this position—such as in public speaking and being in a leadership position in such a present way.
In addition, I have begun to understand the missionary mindset that is involved with working as a missionary with Ablaze. This is something I was skeptical about in the beginning, but honestly, as I have continued on in this ministry and invited others to partner with me, I have a new appreciation for being a missionary. It is a beautiful thing to invite others to partner, and have a share in, such a needed ministry. Through financial and prayerful support, each Ablaze missionary's ministry is able to thrive and bring youth toward Christ in such a powerful way.