The Spirit is alive and well at Marist College Eastwood, where twelve young men are deepening their journey in the Catholic faith.

Among them is Year 12 student Christian H, who was welcomed into the Church last Saturday evening. He received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist, marking a profound milestone in his spiritual life.

Christian candidly shares that he wasn’t particularly religious growing up. “I went to scripture class, but I didn’t really pay attention,” he admits. His turning point came during a family trip overseas at age ten. “I got on the wrong train and was separated from my parents. I felt scared, so I prayed to God. It made me feel better – and then my parents found me,” he recalls.

Now aspiring to study aeronautical engineering, Christian credits his Year 10 Religion teacher, Mr Daniel Viana, as the catalyst for his transformation. “He was a great role model and gave me the confidence to be a better student and a better person,” Christian says. “So when the RCIA program was advertised at school, I thought I had nothing to lose and signed up.”

For his Confirmation, Christian chose St Michael the Archangel as his patron saint. “I want to be a strong defender and protect those close to me,” he explains. “So I selected St Michael to be my special mentor.”

Colm McCaughan, Religious Education Coordinator and RCIA facilitator at Marist Eastwood, is thrilled with the program’s impact. “We have twelve boys involved, ranging from 13 to 17 years of age,” he says. “I’m really proud of the response.”

So what’s driving this success? Mr McCaughan believes it’s the school’s strong faith culture. “The boys aren’t ashamed of their beliefs. They support each other wholeheartedly, evident when forty to fifty Year 12 students came to Mass on Saturday evening to support Christian.”

He also highlights the wonderful support of Fr Pawel, our Parish Priest and the influence of Fr Dan, whose presence at the College has been a blessing. “His approach and depth of knowledge are central to our faith culture. The boys connect with him really well.”

The recent canonisation of Saint Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, has further ignited interest in faith among young Catholics. His relatable life, love of technology and deep devotion to the Eucharist have made him a powerful role model for today’s youth.