In our community, faith is part of everyday life, but choosing to fully enter into it is something different.
It’s personal. Intentional. And for a group of 12 Bonner & Prendie students this year, it was a decision they made on their own; each for deeply personal reasons.
Through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), a parish-based process within the Roman Catholic Church, these students are preparing to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion this Easter.
While OCIA takes place through their local parishes across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, students are supported at B&P by Campus Minister Mr. Sean Smith and the religious sisters, who mentor them along the way. What began as individual decisions has become something more: a shared journey of faith, reflection, and connection.
Why They Chose OCIA
For many, the decision started with a quiet but persistent feeling: I want more.
“I was the only one in my family not fully Catholic,” said Hailey Weir ’27. “I wanted to be a part of it.”
“My whole dad’s side of the family is Catholic,” said Jillian Schaffer ’27, “but I wanted to really experience Mass and grow my faith.”
Others are forging a new path.
“When I complete OCIA, I’ll be the first in my family to become Catholic,” said William Banks ’27.
For Jayvon Venson ’29, the decision is deeply personal. “My grandmother was Catholic, and I was really close to her. This feels like a way to be closer to her.”
Though their reasons differ, each student made the same choice: to step forward.
A Shared Experience
OCIA is often completed individually. But here, students are going through it together — and that has made all the difference.
“I feel more connected doing it as a group,” Jillian said.
“It’s brought us all closer,” added Owen Lockhart ’27. “If it wasn’t a group, a lot of us probably wouldn’t have joined.”
What started as a group of students who didn’t all know each other has grown into a supportive community. They meet after school or during lunch, talk openly, and build relationships rooted in shared purpose.
How OCIA Works
Each week, students gather to reflect, learn, and pray.
“We start by thinking about how our week was holy — what we’ve done that relates to God,” said Abigail Schaffer ’28. “Then we learn something new and talk about it together.”
There is space for questions, for honesty, and for conversation.
“You can ask anything,” said Ginika Chukwuka ’28. “After the lesson, we go to the chapel and pray.”
Over time, those simple rhythms have created something deeper: trust, consistency, and a sense of belonging.
What They’ve Learned
Some lessons have been about understanding the Catholic faith more deeply. Others have been more personal.
“I’ve learned how to really pray — to sit and reflect,” Hailey said.
For Abigail, the change has been profound. “I used to hear that you could bring everything to God, but I didn’t believe it. Now I do and it feels like a weight lifted.”
Students also spoke about understanding the meaning of confession, the importance of the sacraments, and becoming more aware of their actions and choices.
“Confession helps take a weight off your shoulders,” Jillian said.
“It made me reflect on my life and what I do,” added Rose Aglamey ’28.
Growing in Faith
As the students continue growing in the Catholic faith, they’ve become more aware of what it asks of them.
“It’s hard to change from how you used to act,” Abigail shared.
For Owen, the challenge was more internal, making sure his decision came from a place of conviction. “I wanted to make sure I was doing it for the right reasons, and not just to fit in.”
Over time, that uncertainty has given way to a deeper sense of confidence and clarity.
Support Along the Way
Although each student made the decision to begin OCIA personally, they aren’t making the journey alone.
Many spoke about the influence of mentors in their lives — family members, teachers, and campus leaders who encouraged them, answered questions, and helped them grow in faith.
For Hailey, that mentor is especially close to home: her older sister, who also entered the Church during high school and has helped guide her through the process. Abigail pointed to her sister and aunt as trusted sources of support and conversation about faith.
Students also expressed gratitude for the adults at Bonner & Prendie who have walked alongside them. Mr. Smith, who leads OCIA on campus, has created a space that feels welcoming, thoughtful, and open. William also shared that Dr. Cooke has been someone he can turn to with questions along the way.
Together, these relationships have helped reinforce what the students are discovering: that faith is something personal, but never meant to be lived alone.
Looking Ahead to Easter
As Easter approaches, the students are preparing for a moment that will mark a new chapter in their lives.
At the Easter Vigil, each of them will be received fully into the Catholic Church: through Baptism (for those who have not yet been baptized), Confirmation, and First Holy Communion.
“I’m most excited about being baptized,” Abigail said. “It’s a fresh start.”
“I’m excited to go to confession,” said Ginika. “To know you can be forgiven.”
For Rose, it’s something she’s long hoped for. “I’m looking forward to receiving communion and confirmation.”
For each student, the Easter Vigil is more than a ceremony, it is the moment their decision becomes real.
You’re Not Alone
For students who may be considering OCIA, the student's message is simple.
“Just try it,” Jillian said. “You won’t regret trying, but you might regret not going.”
“It’s a safe space,” Abigail added. “You’re not alone.”
As they prepare to enter the Church this Easter, these students are not simply completing a program.
They are choosing their faith — intentionally, personally, and together.