“The Lord receives you into the Catholic Church. His loving kindness has led you here, so that in the unity of the Holy Spirit you may have full communion with us in the faith that you have professed in the presence of His family.”

I don’t have the words to describe the beauty of that Sunday. Of feeling the chrism oil on my forehead. Of receiving the Lord’s Body and Blood. Of the resounding applause as we were welcomed into the Church. Of being surrounded by friends, family, and spiritual guides.

Someone who I’d met only that day said the love of God shone within me, in my enthusiasm and joy. She had never met me before. She didn’t know me before. But the change was so apparent that even strangers were inspired to rekindle their relationships with God.

The best way to describe it is this photo snapped right after I received the Eucharist.

Thank You. For all of this.