What brought me to St. Lawrence Martyr Church was the upcoming marriage to my husband, Robert Hubbard. My husband and I met with Msgr. Michael Lenihan to talk about getting married at St Lawrence. He explained that, since I was not a baptized Catholic, I should look into to talking to Wendy Alvarado, director of the RCIA process.

I met with Wendy and liked her immediately. She explained to me what to expect and the process of conversion, and the time commitment that would be required.

I had been attending Catholic Church since I was a teenager and I had not realized the importance of baptism, first Communion and confirmation. I thought that one day I would convert and devote the time.

I began the RCIA process in May 2008. Shortly thereafter Wendy moved to Colorado. I was sad and missed her dearly

But then, God brought two new people into my life: Ruth Sanborn, the new RCIA director, and Cindy Percz, my sponsor. We went through a lot of stages and my process and attitude starting changing. After 12 months with Ruth, Cindy and the entire RCIA team, I have a new family.

All our sessions became a big part of my life and I finally, fully committed myself. My group had become a group of people who I bonded with and wanted to remain friends with. I felt very secure and safe.

The scrutinies of Lent were very moving and emotional for me. I felt very strongly for the first time how much the community prayed and cared for me. I cried at each one.

The Easter Vigil was above and beyond what I expected. I was on a high all night long. My baptism was refreshing and cleansing, and the Eucharist was so special, I felt like I was surrounded by holiness and the acceptance for which I have waited so long.

The oils of anointing still remain with me to this day. I have a handkerchief embroidered with a cross, containing the perfumed scented oil that I have kept in a ziplock bag.

Everything from that night is unforgettable and I will always keep special in my mind and heart. And guess what? I get to stay at Mass now, I don't have to be dismissed anymore. Yippee!

My next step is to reach out and share with others the Word of the Lord. I will spend the next month deciding what ministry would be a good fit for me, and listening for how the Lord is calling me to serve.

During the Easter season, new Catholics of the archdiocese are sharing their stories of conversion. Stories and photographs may be emailed to mnelson@the-tidings.com.