The first part of my life was spent in a Catholic school, which naturally involved prayers, Mass, and religious activities. At that time, though, I didn’t truly understand what faith meant. It was simply part of the environment I grew up in.

One day, I asked a Muslim friend a question that had always been on my mind: “How did God come to be?” He replied, “We cannot ask that question.” As a child curious about the world, that answer left me confused and dissatisfied.

Around the age of 14, I discovered the word “atheist” and realized that it described how I felt. Still, I chose to remain in the Catholic religion classes at school, not out of belief, but out of genuine curiosity. Religion, in all its forms, intrigued me. I also had friends of different faiths; Muslim, Orthodox, and others, and I enjoyed learning from their perspectives.

Between the ages of 17 and 20, I went through a difficult time. I felt disconnected from life, like I was only half alive. I didn’t find much joy or purpose, and if I had died, I don’t think it would have mattered to me back then. I didn’t have a very active social life, no romantic relationships, and there were family struggles too. I carried everything silently, but it deeply affected me. I often felt lost, overthought everything, and had frequent mood swings.

Then, in June 2025, something unexpected happened. I came across two YouTube videos compilations of theories, interesting facts, and reflections about God and Jesus. Despite some of the strange or slightly misguided ideas in them, those videos deeply touched my heart. For the first time in a long while, I felt something awaken inside me.

I asked my sister for a Bible and began reading the Gospel of Matthew. It moved me profoundly and drew me even closer to the Catholic faith. Shortly after, my sister invited me to join her in a baptism preparation program: The Step-in. I went, and I also attended a Mass. The collective joy, peace, and warmth I felt there touched me in a way I can’t fully describe.

During this program, my sister and I also had the blessing of meeting Gunter and Andrea, who generously agreed to become our sponsors for our baptism. Their presence, encouragement, and kindness meant a great deal to us and helped us feel even more supported on this journey.

Throughout this whole process, Father Joe played an essential role. He accompanied us patiently every step of the way, always ready to listen and guide us. Even when we were difficult or full of questions, he never gave up on us. His dedication, kindness, and faith helped us move forward, and during our sessions we often felt something special among us, as if the Holy Spirit itself were quietly present and participating in our discussions.

The following week was one of the best I’d had in years. My mood lifted, my thoughts were clearer, and I felt like my life had direction again. Later, I had a meeting with Father Joe, who helped answer the final questions that remained in my heart. After that conversation, I realized something beautiful: I had become Catholic without even realizing it.

Since then, I’ve felt God’s presence helping me overcome my greatest weaknesses. Even though this journey is just beginning, I already feel more peace and joy than ever before. Today, I feel deeply connected to God and to Jesus, and I try each day to live more in harmony with His teachings.

Ryan Samyn