You’re Not Finished; You’ve Just Begun: Why the Catholic Faith Continues After Easter Vigil

As the Catholic Church welcomes the multitude of converts this Easter, it is to be commended on their life-changing decision. This will be something they will long remember.

Becoming a Catholic is a lifelong commitment. It encourages us to emulate Christ in everything that we do. Our faith is not meant to be kept in the box. It is meant to change the world.

While I’ve been a cradle and devout Catholic in my 36 years of life, I never took my faith seriously until adulthood. Everything I do is based on my faith. I admit that I am a sinner, like you. Yet, I strive to be the best version God wants me to be. He, too, wants you to be the best version of yourself

I, for one, have told people I met who shared the news of their decision that there is one direction, and that is forward. Never look back or return to what you once were.  Yes, there have been struggles and will be. The good news God will be with you. It’s up to you to ensure that you don’t leave him.

Recently, I was talking with a colleague of mine who had a reversion story, and he does much for a church in my hometown. He used an analogy that is applicable to those who will come into the church, yet may think that it is over.

Think of a business owner who put blood, sweat, and tears into opening a bookstore in his community. After the agonizing process is completed, the owner would be tempted to say that “it’s over”.  No, it continues. Now, the real work begins, and that is for the owner to see his business succeed.

As newly converted Catholics, the journey does not end during the Easter Vigil. Rather, it is a lifelong process. Yes, we will have obstacles, barriers, and many other sufferings. Yet, when we rely on the one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic faith, it will work wonders.

You have the support and prayers of the faithful to accompany you in the final stretch and onward.

You, Catholic convert, are needed. You’re needed in helping the church, offering your God-given talents to others, and helping another person seek God in their own journey.

Keep praying. Keep receiving Christ in the sacraments. Continue to nurture your knowledge about the faith. Defend the faith.

Always push forward, faithful soldier. The battle has begun. Soldier on and keep your gaze fixated on heaven.