The Easter Vigil marks one of the most powerful moments in the Catholic faith—a night when darkness gives way to light, death gives way to life, and hearts are renewed. The celebration was even more meaningful this year as new members joined the Church through baptism and confirmation.
Among them was Reeshanthan Shanger. Raised Hindu, his path to Catholicism began not with certainty, but with curiosity — inspired by a friend’s unwavering faith and a quiet, personal encounter with Jesus during a difficult time. That moment, he says, “opened the door” to something deeper.
Though the RCIA journey had its challenges — long travels, missed weekends — Reeshanthan found peace and encouragement in the welcoming community. What stood out most to him was the silent, genuine acceptance he received even before baptism. “No one asked if I was a convert,” he shared. “It made me feel like I belonged.”
Through months of formation, his view of God transformed. He said faith became less about belief and more about relationships. “Now, I talk to God. I trust Him. I walk with Him.”
To anyone unsure about RCIA, Reeshanthan encourages taking that first step. “You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just try. You won’t be alone — and maybe, like me, you’ll feel like you’ve come home.”
As we celebrated the Resurrection and lit the Paschal candle, stories like his reminded us that Easter is not just about what happened over 2,000 years ago—it’s about how Christ still brings light into our lives today. It is a reminder that in every season, hope rises anew.