With so many things happening during my life as a teen, I vaguely remember the goings on during my 6th, 7th and 8th grade but I remember joining a youth group at the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church dubbed as EDGE. Mrs. Bernadette Manoa, who we fondly call “Aunty Bernie” (then an RE catechist, now EDGE Youth Minister) practically followed me and my other classmates in our Faith Journey. I’d say Aunty Bernie was a key player in my formation, and regard her not just a favorite teacher/catechist, but an inspiration.

My time as an EDGE student was nothing short of terrific. Who would have thought that a quiet, reserved person like me would be making so many friends and connections at the end of my formation years with EDGE. Our lessons were interactive and engaging. Our youth leaders were truly caring and they helped us further our relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, to know more about Him as we ought.

Fast forward to the Summer of 2022, i.e., after graduating high school, Aunty Bernie asked me to help in the EDGE Ministry as one of its youth leaders, and it didn’t take long for me to say “I’m in!” To stand alongside many young people, and be a gift to them as they are to me is an opportunity I couldn’t pass.  It is truly remarkable to be part of the spiritual journey of the middle schoolers; they surprise me at every EDGE meeting, seemingly reminiscent of my past as a former “EDGE-r.” To be able to guide those young people and enrich their relationship with God, as was the EDGE Team that guided me then, now becomes my mission.

EDGE, without a doubt, has a significant impact on my life. It may sound cliché-ish but it is like an out-of-body experience being in the forefront of the youth formation in St. Elizabeth however I have only our Almighty God to thank for; and to Him be the Glory.  And for my grandparents who played a pivotal role in my faith formation, who instilled in me their love for Jesus, I am forever grateful. ♦

I had such a great time helping out EDGE at St. Elizabeth. As a youth leader, my involvement with the Ministry included organizing and facilitating fun-filled activities, ultimately guiding kids towards a deeper relationship with Christ. 

A privilege it was for me to meet those young people and be part of their seeking for what God has in store for them. And little did I know that the EDGE is actually the START of a much deeper calling for me. Pondering on what this Call may lead me to, I am now attending the School of Theology & Philosophy at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, discerning for a priestly vocation.