I have received multiple opportunities this semester to not only strengthen my faith while being in CCM, but also to be a part of a close-knit community of Elon students. During the CATHOLICISM series, which takes place every Tuesday evening at the Catholic Newman Center, I have had the opportunity to explore Bishop Robert Barron's videos and see why we as Catholics believe in certain aspects of Christianity and how those aspects are both similar and different to other religions. My favorite part of this experience was discussing the content of the series with not only the Peer Ministry Coordinator, Halie Reed, and CCM president, Chelsea Semeraro, but also other students in a welcoming environment. (Also, having a home-cooked meal was enjoyable!)

The most helpful episode we have watched included a breakdown of events in the Mass and a description of the importance of each individual part. It made me realize that the actions that I do every Sunday are not only done in exactly the same manner around the world, but that each aspect has its own meaning. For example, I did not realize how many times we reflect on our sins during Mass or how the raising of the Eucharist is where we respect the offering of gifts as they become parts of Jesus Christ.

I never guessed that getting involved within the CCM community would have been so welcoming and beneficial. This semester, I've had the chance to become certified as a Greeter and Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist at Mass, and I am currently on the committee to plan CCM’s first-ever “Mass on the Grass” and will be a Greeter for the event. CCM has allowed me to reduce the stress of college with game nights, intramural dodge ball, and volunteer opportunities like Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, the Alpha Omega program within CCM has given me a religious mentor and another friend at Elon. Spending time with other Catholics has given me the ability to examine my faith and to express my ideas about the religion respectfully.

Through all my experiences this year and with many more to come, I know I will have a stronger faith when graduating from Elon, and I will have a group of supportive friends no matter where my life journeys may take me.