We asked seven catechumens who were baptized in our parish during this year's Easter Vigil about the reasons for their decision.
Petra (43): Thanks to my husband Martin, I found myself in church every Sunday, but I still didn't understand why I should get baptized. Being part of the Church didn't attract me at all. That strict group of decent people reminded me of a rehab center… and then there were the scandals. But gradually I recognized my selfishness – and the God who loves me. I fell in love with Him. Maybe it was always like this, I just didn't remember it. It's a similar feeling to when our children were born. I don't even know how it was before, but now they are here, as if they have always been, just like my love for them. Suddenly I found myself in a world full of miracles. I walk and look around and sing with the children: “In the morning, all day long, angels watch over me, my Lord…” I would like to be able to reciprocate His love. I still don't know exactly how, so I'm starting with baptism. I want to say my yes to Him.
Miroslav (25): During a difficult time in my life, I was looking for something that would give me strength and hope, and it was then that I felt the desire to draw closer to God. I decided to get baptized because I wanted to find spiritual support and to become part of a community that would accompany me on this journey.
Verča (23): Jesus helped me a lot with my demons. Another reason is the sacraments and the consecrated life. I really like that people consecrated to God can share smiles, joy, and wisdom. I also feel close to Catholic liturgy and resonate with the catechism. In paganism and magic, I always felt something was missing. Here, everything is just right, nothing is excessive, and nothing is lacking.
Jan (35): I believe that from a historical perspective, the Catholic Church is closest to our Lord. It directly descends from Jesus' original teachings. I have been inclined toward Catholicism since my youth.
Jana (49): I wanted to get closer to my Creator, to explore His will, to listen to Him, and to follow Him. I would like to build a relationship with the living God, to resemble Him, to allow Him to love me, and to love all creation. I would like to surrender all my imperfections and faults to You, Father, please transform them into the best I can give to the world (and to You).
Cyril (17): I want to be part of the true holy Church that was founded by the Lord Jesus Himself through His disciples. I want to know the love, peace, and forgiveness that the Lord has for me, and I want to walk the path He has prepared for me.
Dajána (48): I became a Catholic thanks to my brother Viktor. One day he made a cross on my forehead with holy water and said, “May God bless you!” I laughed at it: “Yeah, right!” That night I literally went to hell. The next morning, I told my brother that I needed to go to church. I cried throughout the entire Mass. It then took another four years before I got to baptism. I still had some doubts. But now I am happy and grateful.
