I was born a cradle catholic – practicing my faith and Sunday obligations for the last 30 years of my life. I was accustomed to saying my prayers, attending catechism classes and reciting the daily rosary with my family.

“Val, time for the litany,” mum says.

Oh yes… “Litany of Our Lady…”

“Lord, have mercy on us…”

I knew it all. Well, not all but what I needed to know on an age-by-age basis. I always believed, even if I did not understand some of it. We migrated to New Zealand when I was at the age of 10 and the first time we attended mass here, we were overdressed, and I mean extremely. I grew up being taught to dress well for church as we are going to meet the King and always receiving on the tongue. It did not take long before my attire became smart casual and I began receiving on the hand instead. Do not get me wrong, I was not told to do any of these, but it became more comfortable to do so and not stand out as much.

School was much the same. A couple of my friends and me the only two practicing Catholics out of our group of friends and I always organized sleepovers or get togethers to ensure I was able to still complete my Sunday obligation.

Fast forward to university… I was once asked by friends on a night out whether being a cradle Catholic influenced my decision to attend mass every weekend and if I was somewhat indoctrinated. I remember feeling defensive and stating that I believe in Jesus because I truly believe, not just because I was taught to. However, there was a period where I struggled mentally and physically. I began prioritizing everything else before God and my Sunday obligations. During this time, I let go of my faith and beliefs, and I felt the repercussions of that in the following years.

Coming to more recent times, as my faith grew stronger, I remember having the desire to learn more, however I was unsure of where to begin or look for more information. As I commenced rediscovering my Catholic faith, I also met my then boyfriend, now husband, who was on a very similar journey as myself.

I have come a long way since then, and started this blog in hope to share my (ongoing) journey in rediscovering my faith and growing into a Catholic woman, wife and mother. I will write about my experiences, favourite prayers and try answer any thoughts or questions from other women on a similar path or who are just curious.

“Remember that you are never alone, Christ is with you on your journey everyday of your lives!”

Pope Saint John Paul II