Journey of trust
Opinion
Salisbury parishioner SAMANTHA DECONNO celebrated the 20th anniversary of her adult confirmation late last year. The northern suburbs piano teacher wrote this reflection to encourage anyone who might be contemplating joining the Catholic Church.
During November 2004, at the age of 28, I had my first holy communion and confirmation at Salisbury Catholic Parish.
My sponsor was Melissa Renshaw, a lifelong friend since primary school; my sacrament leader was Fran Renshaw and the celebrant was the late Father Jim O’Loughlin.
Taking these sacraments was one of the best decisions I have made in my faith journey and has shaped who I am today.
My faith and trust in God and the Holy Spirit has got me through many trials, hardships and setbacks in life. Equally my faith has allowed me to see and witness the goodness and mercy of God in my life too.
Some of the milestones and achievements for me since then have been becoming a godparent in 2004, joining the parish music and liturgy committee in 2007, attending World Youth Day Sydney in 2008 and being a sponsor for my sister’s confirmation in 2015.
The following year I rebuilt my music business, teaching piano full time and in 2022 I finished my music examinations with distinction. Last year I studied mindfulness music therapy for wellbeing.
My favourite bible verse is The Lord is My Shepherd (Psalm 23). This verse helps to remind me about the Lord’s comfort and that he leads me in my life journey. I have always liked this image of Christ as a shepherd as it helps me to rely on his goodness, mercy and protection.
I enjoy engaging in bible study, learning about God’s word and the bible characters. I also use my journal to write down weekly reflections using the Examen and Lectio Divina. I learned to use these forms of reflection during seasons of Lent.
Throughout the past 20 years I have followed the life and spirituality of St Mary MacKillop. She is a woman of faith and a true example to us all. I engage with her spirituality by visiting the museum, pilgrimages, reading books and daily devotions.
I’m reminded of my commitment of being fully initiated into the Church by the gifts of the spirit: wonder and awe, reverence, wisdom, courage, knowledge, right judgement and understanding.
These gifts shape who I am today. I learned early on how to hear God’ s voice and it is through the quiet soft voice of the Holy Spirit that I am guided daily. Thank you to family and friends who have supported me in my faith journey.
