SAN DIEGO — Around 1,000 eighth-graders will graduate from San Diego Catholic elementary schools starting in May. A few shared the lasting lessons from their Catholic education. They were invited to reflect on the most important lessons that they learned in Catholic school, how they think their faith will guide them in high school, and how they plan to continue growing in their faith. These were their responses:
Benyamin Adibi
I have learned to have good Catholic morals, make good decisions, as well as contribute to my community as much as possible. Faith will guide me in high school by me going to chapel at St. Augustine High School as much as possible and me trusting in God all the way through my high school experience and into the rest of my life. I plan to continue growing my faith by contributing to my school community and my parish community, keeping up the good morals I learned as a growing young man and continue my belief in God to lay me a path for me to follow.
Jadon Ganih
I’ve learned to love all even your enemy. If you have hatred in your heart, you will never be able to find happiness. Loving enemies shows you are acting as children of God, who are kind to the ungrateful and wicked, providing both sun and rain on the just and unjust.
My faith serves as a moral compass. When I face difficult decisions or peer pressure, I look to the values I’ve learned — like honesty and integrity — to ensure I am making choices that reflect who I want to be. I plan to grow in my faith by going to Mass, reading the Bible and praying to God.
Adam Hayes
The most important lesson I learned in Catholic school is sharing and being nice. I will pray before every test in high school. I plan to grow my faith by going to church.
Jason Hiedo
I learned more about Jesus and how he treats other, and I will take that to high school. My faith will guide me in high school by praying every day and praying before and after a test. I plan to grow my faith by praying, reading the Bible and fasting.
Larissa Ibrahim
The most important lesson I learned is that the Eucharist is the highway to heaven. I think my faith will guide me by enabling integrity in academics, and having trustworthy friendships with Catholic-minded believers. I plan to continue to grow in my faith by staying connected with Holy Trinity Church and my teachers throughout my time at Holy Trinity.
Mikayla Mansour
The most important lesson I have learned is that, no matter how hard life gets, keep your head up, knowing that God is always by your side. My faith is very strong, and I think it will guide me to all the right, intelligent choices. I plan to continue growing my faith by staying humble, strong and classy during all of my ups and downs in life.
Israel Mabalot
The most important lessons I learned are the Beatitudes and the Ten Commandments. I learned that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I think if I have faith and trust, even if it’s as small as a mustard seed, I can do what I put my mind to. I plan to grow my faith by doing my best to continue in my faith and talking with God to make me a better Catholic.
Annalee Shamo
The most important lesson I learned is that the faith of God will follow you everywhere. My faith will guide me in high school in everything, such as making new friends and learning lessons. By always being curious about God and still going to Mass.
Victor Adames
I learned new values that I will take to high school. I will also take the good things my teachers taught me that will help me in high school. It will guide me in high school by believe in myself and to work hard. By always praying and being close to God and never leave his side, and always attend church.
Genesis Alvarez
The most important Catholic lesson I learned in school that I am taking with me to high school and beyond is my school value, which is faithfulness. I choose this because faith helps mine and God´s relationship, and I feel like God will be with me throughout high school and beyond.
I think my faith will guide me in high school because God is faith, and he has helped me throughout middle school, and I think he would help me in high school. How I can continue to grow my faith is by always believing in God and asking him to guide me through rough things.
Fernando Angeles
Our school values, which are faithful, loving, inquisitive, perseverant and responsible. These values are the key things that help us become better as a student and emotionally become better.
Because it will help me to stay optimistic and just remember that I always have God by my side and have a guardian angel over my head. By keep on going to church and reading the Bible very often.
Jeammy Benitez
The most important Catholic lesson I’ve learned in Catholic school that I will be taking with me to high school and beyond is all my values I’ve learned to show in middle school, because it’s important to always show kindness and be faithful to others. … Faith will guide me through high school by always remembering God has a plan for everything and he will help you through the difficult parts in life.
Levi Castro
During my years in a Catholic school, I believe that leadership is something that I should bring with me in to high school. I think I should bring this because it not only helps me with being a good person, but it also helps me with responsibility. My faith will help me get through high school by giving me the strength I need and to help me keep on going. I plan to continue to grow my faith by going to more classes and by going to church on a weekly basis.
Oscar Cordoba Valerio
The most important lessons I have learned are the five values that represent the school, which is faithful, loving, inquisitive, perseverance, and responsible. These values have taught me that with being responsible, I’ll be chosen for things; having perseverance, I can do a lot of things; being loving, I’ll be trusted; being faithful, I’ll have a happy life; and being inquisitive, I’ll be able to correct my mistakes.
My faith will lead me to a path of success and joy. It will lead me to friends that will help me be better than how I am currently, find friends who will help each other and be there for each other no matter what. My faith will lead me to a good college and will lead me to my career.
I plan to learn the values of the high school I’ll be attending and grow with them, but not just values, but also with God. God will help me grow my faith and lead me to my path.
Miguel Duarte
The most import Catholic lesson I have learned that I am taking to high school is faith, because I want to keep my faith with God and the community. My faith will guide me in high school by getting closer to God and the new community and people at the school. I plan to grow in my faith by going to church more, getting to know more people to have a stronger bond with others.
Yarel Gonzalez
The most important Catholic lesson that I am taking with me to high school and beyond is the lesson of loving others as myself. Loving others is the main foundation which shows the love of Jesus to others, which is why it is the most significant to me.
My faith will guide me throughout my high school experience by building trusted friendships and connections with people who I can rely on. My faith will lead me to make the right decisions and many that will allow me to have a great and successful career.
I plan to continue to grow my faith by actively engaging myself in community service, with the goal of helping and serving others, especially those who are less privileged or have not experienced the love of God.
Jared Gurrola Lopez
The most important Catholic lessons that I have learned in Catholic school that I am taking with me to high school and beyond is trusting the Lord every day, for he will guide you. I think that my faith will guide me in high school because it is something that I can trust to guide me every day and also help me grow more as a kind, caring person. I plan to continue growing in my faith by going to church more, reading the Bible, putting others before myself like Jesus did, and praying to God every day for the things he has given me.
Meredith Hermosa
The most important Catholic lessons I have learned in my Catholic school that I will continue on taking with me to high school and beyond is my faith and my love. I will carry on my faith with me and always care about others around me.
I think my faith will guide me through high school by allowing me to see the brighter in everything that happens and everything I see, especially giving me a “can do” attitude.
I plan to continue to grow my faith by praying and always being forgiving to others and myself, I also plan to take theology class, do service to my community, and doing my confirmation.
Ilani Mendoza
The most important Catholic lessons I have learned in my Catholic school that I am taking with me when I go to high school are faithful.
My faith will guide me in high school by letting people know that I am a trustworthy person and they can be like, “She has been a faithful classmate for three years.”
I plan to continue growing in my faith by going to church every Sunday morning, participating in Mass, like singing, reading, or taking up the gifts.
Ruby Monroy
The most important Catholic lessons I’ve learned in Catholic school would be my faith in God. My faith will guide me in high school by allowing me to focus in my classes. I plan to continue in growing my faith by going to church during the weekends and praying whenever I need to.
Leonela Montrond
The most important Catholic lesson I have learned in Catholic school is to have faith in the future God holds for you. I never thought I would be attending a Catholic school, and knowing God put this experience in my life with purpose drives me to take advantage of it and push through difficult circumstances, holding hope for the future he will slowly guide me to.
In high school, I think my faith will help guide me academically and relationship-wise. Rather than being discouraged by school situations involving friends or studies, God would want me to focus on hope and the future promised, guiding me to make better decisions.
I plan on continuing my faith by setting the goal to attend Mass more frequently … I also hope that religion study in high school will get me to grow in my faith, learning the history and origin of Catholic faith and the importance of Jesus in our lives.
Sofia Moreno Garcia
The most important Catholic lesson I have learned in Catholic school is to help serve others in the same way that Jesus would. This is important to me because it helps me remember to put others first and to always offer a helping hand to those in need. I will be taking this lesson with me to high school and beyond to encourage me to always be willing to help and serve others.
I think my faith will guide me in high school by helping me to not give up and to persevere instead. My faith will help and encourage me to push through when I feel like giving up.
I plan to continue growing my faith by attending Mass every Sunday and by praying every day to deepen my relationship with God.
Mario Patino
The most important Catholic lessons I have learned in Catholic school that I am taking to high school are being responsible and time management. My faith will help me keep going and going. I plan to grow my faith by learning life lessons and skills.
Jazlyne Perez
The most important Catholic lesson I have learned in my Catholic school that I am taking with me to high school is that we must be kind to everyone. I think my faith will guide me in high school by understanding that high school is going to be a difficult place, but God will always be with me and God has a plan for me and my future. I will continue to pray over everything and put all of my trust in God.
Autumn Phifer
The most important Catholic lesson I learned for me to take to high school and beyond is perseverance. I plan to use my faith in high school by helping me to not give up on my schoolwork. I plan to grow in my faith by living the values that I’ve learned.
Esperanza Rendon
The most important Catholic lesson I learned in a Catholic school, and (which) I will be taking with me to high school and beyond, is how great and abundant the grace of God truly is and how no matter what we do … he will seek us to get closer to him.
I think my faith will guide me to high school by helping me stay grounded to what I believe in, which will help me in all the many decisions I will make during high school.
I plan to continue growing in my faith my joining a youth group in my local church and also joining a Bible study group in high school, as well as going to shelters to provide a service for others, just like Jesus did.
Michelle Razo
I’ll say the two most important Catholic lessons I have learned at Nativity Prep throughout my three years of middle school are how serving others reflects my faith because I don’t help people because I have to do it but because I want to help people. Also, how it’s important to understand how having a relationship with God is not guided by his rules, but it is guided by you and the efforts you put into having a relationship with him.
I think my faith will guide me through high school by helping me make good choices, such as choosing friends who will encourage me and not those who will put me down. My faith will also guide me by reminding me that I do not need to change anything about myself to fit in, because it would only affect me negatively and would be like changing a person God created.
For my faith to continue growing, I plan on continuing to be an altar server at my church because I feel it is an act that I am doing to God to show how grateful I am to have his guidance, love, and support every day.
Melody Sanchez
The most important Catholic lesson I have learned while on my journey here at Nativity was to always have love in my heart for others. At Nativity, I have built strong relationships around me and I learn to love even more each day. This has taught me to always see the good in others and to become an empathetic person. Our five values – Faithful, Loving, Inquisitive, Perseverant, and Responsible – are what I remind myself to be every day.
This will help me through high school by letting me have close bonds with my peers and teachers, strengthening our love and faith.
The way I think my faith will guide me through high school is to give me a sense of hopefulness in my academic performance. I will stay hopeful and optimistic about my studies, even when things get hard. When I need a break from the large book and stacks of paper, I can always calm down when I reconnect with God. By going to Mass, meditating, or even if it’s just a quick prayer to myself. If I ever have a sense of doubt or don’t reach my exact goal I communicate with him and believe that it is in God’s plan.
The way that I continue to grow in my faith is by surrounding myself with the people I love. Being with people that bring the best out of me helps me grow in my love, faith, and I believe that it shows.
Melanie Vicencio
The most important lessons I have learned and will be taking into high school is being faithful to Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and just staying true to yourself. Remembering that God is over us and he is willing to do anything to shield us from pain and suffering but that will only happen if you reach out to him, if you allow him to.
Also staying true to yourself is very important because you have to remember you can’t satisfy everybody, not everyone will be happy with the decisions you make, but as long you know you’re doing the right thing and happy with yourself, that is all you need to make yourself feel happy with you.
Faith will guide me in high school by helping become stronger and always believing I can do anything I put my mind to.
I plan on growing my faith in always going to church, (and) praying every morning and every night (and) before eating. Also by (being) kind to others and sharing the word of God, letting people know he does exist and he is here to guide you.
Isabella Zuñiga
The most important thing I have learned in a Catholic school is growing my faith with God because I know that I am never by myself. I can take this with me in high school and the future by continuously participating in Mass and talking about my faith with my friends and family.
My faith will guide me in high school by reassuring me that, no matter what happens, I am not alone and, if I ever do feel alone, I know I have God to pray to. My faith has played a main part of my life, so I know I have nothing to worry about.
I plan on growing my faith by being engaged in different activities that will help me grow my faith. I can do Bible studies and (go) to Mass often to grow my faith with God.
Lauren Ruiz
The most important Catholic lessons that I learned in Catholic school are: to lean to God during difficult times and to trust in his plan for me.
I think faith will guide me in high school by giving me the reassurance that God has a plan for me, and that every challenge that I face will bring me closer to who God wants me to be and what my purpose in life is.
I plan to continue growing my faith by lectoring, ushering and going to weekly Masses at my high school. In addition, I plan to continue sharing in prayer with my family and praying on my own to God.
David Cline
The most important Catholic lesson I learned at a Catholic school is to be kind to everyone. It doesn’t take much to share a smile, and you never know what somebody might be going through. A smile can make somebody’s day a whole lot better, so whenever you can, choose to be kind.
I think my faith will guide me in high school to become the best and hardest working version of myself. I know I will overcome any challenge I face with the Lord on my side.
I plan to continue growing my faith by getting confirmed and going to Mass more often. I also plan on reading the Bible and learning more about Jesus’ journey.
Giulianna Favela
My time in Catholic school has taught me very important lessons that I will carry with me into high school and beyond. One of the most meaningful lessons I have learned is to treat others with kindness and respect because everyone is created in God’s image. I have also learned the importance of forgiveness, helping those in need, and standing up for what is right.
These values have helped guide the way I act toward others and the choices I make. They remind me to try to live with compassion and to follow the example of Jesus in my daily life.
As I move into high school, my faith will continue to guide me in many ways.
High school can bring new challenges and pressures, but my faith will help me to remember to make good decisions and stay true to my values. When I face difficult situations, I can trust in God and remember what I have learned about doing what is right. My faith will also encourage me to be kind, supportive and respectful to the people around me.
I also hope to continue growing in my faith as I get older. I plan to do this by praying regularly, attending Mass, and continuing to learn more about God and my faith. I want to stay involved in my church community and look for ways to help others whenever I can. By keeping my faith an important part of my life, I hope to grow closer to God and allow my faith to guide me throughout high school and beyond.
Sofia Genna
I think the most important lessons that I’ll be taking with me are the ones about serving others and trusting my conscience. Having the opportunity to engage in service-based learning has allowed me to open my eyes to the world around me and to help others on a more compassionate and complex level.
Trusting my conscience will help me to make the right decision, even when it is difficult. I know that I will be surrounded by influences that can be positive, but also unfortunately, some will also be negative. Knowing what the best decision is will help me to listen to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to guide my thoughts and actions. I will be able to develop a deeper spiritual connection and learn to pause for guidance from the Spirit before I act.
I think my faith will guide me to make good choices that will benefit myself and those around me. I also think that God has a plan for me and will continue to put good people in my life to support me and to help me to realize and live out my vocation.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by continuing to go to Mass and to learn more about the catechism. For instance, I plan to go to a Catholic high school and will take religion classes and engage in various service projects that will help me to develop my faith. I also plan to take confirmation classes and receive the sacrament while in high school.
Alexander Angeles
Probably the fact that God can forgive us no matter what we do wrong. It will help me stay focused on my studies. I am going to a Catholic high school that will make us go to Masses and have prayer services.
Bart Brigida
The most important Catholic lessons I have learned in Catholic school are to always have faith in God at all times, especially during hard moments, and to treat all people with kindness and respect, even if they are an annoyance to you. In high school, I think my faith will guide me to always strive to show the best version of myself to others and to serve God in the best way possible. My plan to continue growing in my faith is to panic less about petty matters and to offer all anxiety up to God, and to put God in front of all other things in my life always.
Joaquin Coombs
My most important Catholic lessons that I have learned in Catholic School are the simple lessons on how to live like Jesus and as the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes guide us.
My faith will help guide me by finding friends who will bring me closer to God, growing more in my knowledge of the Bible through participation in Mass, and leading me to pray for God’s help in difficult times. I plan to continue growing in my faith by becoming more involved in helping my community, praying, going to Mass more often, and trying to learn more about Catholicism.
Ethan Cooper
One of the most important Catholic lessons that I have learned in school is that, “Our love is not to be just words or mere talk but something real and active.” Secondly, to respect and show integrity and compassion to others. Finally, practicing to serve God, the Church, and others, while being aware that God is all around me and will forever be in me.
I think my faith will guide me in high school in many different ways by giving me a strong moral compass which supports the values and ethics that I have learned at School of the Madeleine.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by praying throughout the day, serving God and the Church by volunteering for the choir, participating in community service projects, and becoming a member of the congregation.
Emily Cuttitta
The most important Catholic lesson would probably be to be kind and to never be a bad friend. I’ve learned to always be positive and never negative to others.
I think my faith will guide me to be kind and strong in high school, because I have learned many new and improved things about myself in this school.
I plan on growing my faith by helping and being kind to others. I can help others by helping them with homework, or complimenting people, or just anything that’s kind.
Harrison De Simone
Some of the most important Catholic lessons I have learned at my school that I will take with me to high school and beyond are that sacraments are not just a ritual, but something more than that and how God created everyone different from each other.
Faith will guide me in high school if I am not doing so good and need guidance, and I can always pray to God and ask for guidance. I plan to continue growing my faith by always taking Eucharist once a week and praying to God at least twice a day.
Liam Desjardins
The most important lesson is to spread God’s word and to always do the right thing. I think that if I am having trouble in a class, then God will help me persevere. I plan to continuously attend Mass and to learn from others.
Mariana Elson
The most important Catholic lesson I learned in Catholic school is that God loves me and is always with me. This is a tremendously important lesson to learn because knowing God is always with you will help you to just trust in God and stop stressing. When you stress about things you cannot control, you are sinning and turning away from God’s love. You must trust that God will always have a plan for you.
It is also very important to accept and reciprocate God’s love. God will always forgive and have mercy on us, regardless of what we do. God loves us so much, and it is so important to show our love for him back.
I think my faith will guide me in high school by being the layout for the rest of our lives. I need to trust that, regardless of the decisions I make in high school, as long as I’m being a good Catholic, it is in God’s plan for me. I hope that God will guide me to make the right decisions.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by praying, going to Mass and helping the community. I pray daily, but believe I can have deeper prayers more often. I constantly attend Mass, and I plan on trying to maintain doing that. Lastly, I would love to join a club in high school that works on helping to create a world full of God’s love. I think joining a club that (offers) these things will help me grow in my faith and be a better Catholic.
Blake Ferreira
The most important Catholic lessons I have learned in Catholic school is to treat others with respect and be kind to them. I also learned to try to do what is right, even if it is hard or if I don’t get anything out of it. Finally, I learned to put my full love and trust in God.
I think my faith will guide me in high school by helping me make good choices and be strong whenever I am going through difficult times.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by continuing to pray, go to Mass, and learn more about Jesus and my faith. I can also help others every day when needed.
Vittoria Gustafson
Everyone is created equal under God’s eyes, and we should treat others with love and respect. Faith will guide me by helping me make good choices and stay true to God. I plan to keep growing in my faith by living out my beliefs every day.
Carter Guyott
Developing a conscience a good will. That has to have been the biggest thing I have taken out of Catholic school by far. My faith will guide me in high school because I will be more knowledgeable on the faith and works of God. I plan to continue growing in my faith through prayer and actions, as well as going to Mass every Sunday.
Kai Holden
I definitely am going to remember how everyone has a little bit of Jesus inside of them and, therefore, we should treat others as if they were also Jesus by not envying or grudging against anyone, but to treat them with respect and mercy. Another core value I would like to bring along with me throughout the rest of my life would be that God is always watching even if no one else is looking, which encourages myself to be diligent at all times.
I think it will lead me to a humble life with God as I mature from boy to man through this journey. I would like to keep growing my faith after high school by leaning on God to help me out in hard situations during college and my adult life, as well as teach my children about God’s love and Jesus’ teachings.
Peter Kabban
The most important lesson I learned is to treat others how you want to be treated. I think my faith will guide me to do the right thing always. I plan to keep going to church every Sunday, praying every day, and doing youth groups, retreats, etc.
Ryan La Raia
There are so many principal lessons I have learned from attending a Catholic school for 10 years. One lesson is that you can always trust in God in any situation. This is something that will help me for the rest of my life because, in any situation, good or bad, I can trust God. I know God won’t always give us what we ask for, but he will give us the gifts we need to get through that moment. …
When we love our neighbor, we are really loving Jesus, and loving God is the key to heaven and living forever with God.
My faith will guide me throughout my high school career in many situations. Going to a Catholic school and being immersed in a God-filled environment has developed my conscience and made me a more mature and focused person. This will lead me in my academic, athletic and social life. I hope I can continue to grow with God and become the best version of myself.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by listening to God’s call for me, not only for my future vocation, but for my everyday vocation. At school Masses and on Sundays, I can be present with the Eucharist and I can constantly pray for God’s guidance and graces. As I grow older, I will start to listen for my call to marriage, single, or religious life. The best way for me to keep growing in my faith is to keep praying to God and listening for his word.
Stella Lamerato
I think the most important lesson I’ve learned is how helping others unites communities. I think faith will guide me to always do the right thing and be less selfish when it comes to my time. I plan to keep going to Mass every Sunday, and I also plan to be confirmed into the Catholic Church.
Malia Long
God will always forgive you. That doesn’t mean you should do bad things, but if you’re truly sorry and you ask God for forgiveness, he will forgive you. I think my faith will keep my conscience strong, and I’ll be able to say no to things that people might offer. Things that are bad influences on my life, I can say no to. God will help guide me in my life to be able to do the right thing. My plan is to go to church and volunteer there.
Milo Marr
Living out my faith through service, such as volunteering in the community or helping others who may not be as privileged as our school. I will continue to volunteer, and I love doing it through tennis because that is one of God’s gifts to me and I’m blessed to be able to help others in it.
Faith provides morals and a guide in high school, because it can help me deal with stress and pressure through prayer and meditation. It will help me keep on the right path, away from bad experiences and mistakes I may make but won’t, because faith will be there to guide me. I will be consistent in prayer and study Scripture occasionally and attend Mass as much as I can.
Nico Martinez
The most important lesson I have learned is that, as Catholics, everything we do should be an act of love for others. I think my faith will guide me through high school by helping me to follow as close to God as I can. I plan to grow my faith by reading the Bible and implementing the lessons I learn into my life.
Logan McCloskey
The most important lesson I learned is to trust in God because he knows what he is doing. My faith will teach me that God has a plan and to trust him. I want to start going to church more often and praying every night.
Nicholas Miller
The most important Catholic lesson I have learned is that the face of Jesus is in everyone and that we should (treat) everyone like we would treat Jesus. I firmly believe that my faith will guide me through high school by helping me make the right choices about what’s important for my success. I plan to receive confirmation to further my faith life.
Grace O’Neal
From learning about Jesus’ life on Earth to the Ten Commandments and Scripture passages to morals, School of the Madeleine has taught me all I know about my faith. Everything I have been taught and taken in to improve myself as a Catholic is important, but if I had to pick one lesson I learned at Madeleine that I will take with me throughout the rest of my life, it would definitely be Jesus’ second greatest commandment, which is “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Anytime I am feeling lost in life, I look to this commandment and pray to God, asking Him to help me be a better friend, daughter, sister, student, etc., and it makes me feel a lot better. Out of all the Bible quotes I know, this one always sticks out to me.
Going to OLP, a Catholic high school for all girls, will definitely show me more aspects I did not already know about my faith and many of their student-made clubs give me opportunities to help people in need and to fulfill my vocation sent from God. Also, I can use what School of the Madeleine has taught me to guide myself to be an exceptional high school student and a generous friend.
For starters, I am going to a Catholic high school that offers a multitude of different Catholic courses. Each semester, I will take a new religion class and learn more on top of everything I already know. Even when I am out of Catholic school, I will continue to go to Mass and teach my future children all about God and Catholics.
Mariana Perez
I have learned to treat others with kindness no matter what. Our Lord is always guiding us throughout our lives, even if we sinned or not. Knowing that someone will always be on your side when times get rough shows that Jesus is always there for us, even when we don’t ask for it.
My faith will guide me in high school by helping me learn the difference between right and wrong. In high school, I will have to make decisions on my own for my education and future, so knowing the difference between right and wrong can help me make moral choices that will lead me to a better life. My faith can also identify me as a child of God. It will guide me to do everything according to God’s will.
I want to continue growing in my faith by always putting God first through my high school life and the rest of my life. I want to build a Catholic family and teach children about God. I want to show others the kindness of our God and how he can help us in our lives. Having faith in God can help me lead to a future loving family and community.
Connor Purdy
Some of the most important lessons I’ve learned in Catholic school are to always forgive others and that you’re friends are always there to help you. I think my faith will guide me in high school to help stay close to God and stay away from bad things like drugs and alcohol. It can also help me by reminding me that God is there to support me through all my struggles. I plan to continue growing my faith by getting confirmed in high school and going to church more in my free time. I also plan on serving more at my local parish.
Kaden Reid
The most important Catholic lesson I learned in a Catholic school is that faith isn’t only something you learn, but something you live by. Faith teaches us to treat people with respect, compassion and loyalty. Faith helps build relationships by bringing people closer together, while growing closer with God on the way. Faith will guide me in high school by giving me a foundation for when things get difficult or confusing. Faith will help me build a strong relationship with God, and He will lead me on the path He thinks is best for me. Faith will show me how to stay professional and composed throughout my high school years. I plan to continue growing my faith by staying connected with the Church community through Mass, prayer, and receiving the Holy Communion. Surrounding myself in the presence of God will help me stay close to God and challenge me to grow. Serving in the parish is another way I want to keep strengthening my faith as I get older.
Evelyn Rodriguez
The most important Catholic lessons that I have learned at Madeleine is the Shroud of Turin because it was one of the most magnificent stories that we learned about. It truly showed that our Catholic faith can be proven to be real. This historical item that has been discovered shows the imprint of Jesus’ face and body, and includes the wounds he endured to save us from our sins. This strengthened my faith in God, knowing that there is something physical that represents my Catholic faith.
I believe my Catholic faith will guide me in high school through the religion teachers’ perspectives and being around people that share the same faith and values that I have.
I plan to continue to grow in my Catholic faith through participating in acts of service, attending church every week, participating in my religion courses, being a good friend to others, and continuing to learn about my faith.
Julianna Stabile
The most important Catholic lesson I’ve learned in Catholic school is the Shroud of Turin. Throughout this year, we learned about the Shroud of Turin in many different ways. We learned about the negative of an image, which is what the Shroud has. If you look at it normally it looks like a very faint photo of Jesus, but once you put the negative camera up to it, it looks like a super clear image of Jesus.
This lesson will inspire me in high school because I think it is one of the many ways to teach others about Jesus Christ.
I think my faith will guide me in high school because I am attending a Catholic high school. During the next four years, I will continue to grow and be stronger in my faith. I will do this through school by participating in Religion class and other activities outside of class.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by attending a Catholic high school, going to Mass, and teaching others about Jesus through Scripture. Over the next four years into adulthood, I will prepare to receive confirmation, go on retreats, and attend high school youth group through my parish. These things will help me have a more loving and stronger relationship with God.
Joshua Thompson
I learned not to pray in the open where everyone can see me do it, but in a quiet place where it’s just me and God. I think my faith will guide me by helping me down the path that God has chosen for me, whatever that path may be. I plan to continue to grow in my faith by continuing to follow God’s teachings and praying daily.
Lauren Ward
The most important lesson I have learned in Catholic school is that God will always forgive you, once you come back to him, and I will take that to high school.
My faith will guide me to always know right from wrong, and to always be respectful and kind to those around me in high school.
I plan to continue growing my faith by going to confirmation.
Miles Wilber
The most important Catholic lessons I learned in Catholic school that I’m taking with me to high school and beyond are the values of compassion and social service. Throughout my time at a Catholic school, I have developed a good moral compass, inspired from the values of Christianity. My good morals help me to forgive and empathize with people in hard times. I have been taught to contribute to social service through my school’s required service hours, dedicated to service inside and outside our school.
While completing these required work hours, lots of my classmates, including me, realized we shouldn’t only be serving others because we’re required to. We learned we should always be offering our help to others, regardless if we need service hours or not.
I think my faith will guide me in high school (and) will help me with fear, stress, anxiety or any major setbacks that may occur throughout my high school years. Relying on God having a plan for me will help me to stay calm during stressful periods, such as finals or unfinished projects.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by incorporating my faith into my daily life through service, compassion or forgiveness. These can be reflected through volunteering, forgiving someone who has badly hurt me, or helping someone get through a hard time of stress, grief, or fear.
Alessia Wilson
The most important lessons I’ve learned is to never lose faith in the Lord and to follow him always. My faith will guide me by helping me make the right decisions. Reading the Bible more often and share the Gospel with others.
Benjamin Blackman
The most important lesson I learned in Catholic school is to treat others with respect and kindness. My faith will guide good in high school. I will continue to grow in my faith by praying and going to church.
Michael Guidi
Some of the most important Catholic lessons I’ve learned is to always help others, respect everyone and have faith in God. I think my faith will guide me in high school by helping me have trust in God and make the right decisions. I am going to a Catholic high school, which will continue my faith.
RJ Noonan
One Catholic lesson I have learned in Catholic school that I am taking with me to high school is to put others first. I think my faith will help guide me through high school by helping me in school and in religion. I plan to be altar serving more to help me grow in faith.
Dylan Teixeira
The most important lessons I learned are always trust God and follow his plan. My faith will guide me to be a kinder, nicer person and make better decisions. I plan to grow my faith by keeping following God.
Lucia Duvvuri
The most important lessons I learned in Catholic school are that God made us and he didn’t have to, but wanted to, and so in return, we must know, love and serve him.
My faith will guide me in high school, helping me to find my identity. I plan to continue attending St. Joseph and get confirmed.
Jack Masnica
Jesus is truly God. There is scientific evidence (too much) for Christ; he’s not just something we have to trust in. There are so many things unexplainable by science, as well – the Shroud of Turin, Eucharistic miracles, and others like that.
Seculars and atheists have to try SO hard to ignore the truth that it’s illogical and ridiculous. It’s like trying to say that Kansas isn’t real and, whenever they’re told otherwise, they ignore it and brush it off, lying to themselves and making up bad excuses and fallacies to persuade others to agree with them, because “as long as everyone agrees with you, you always must be right.” It doesn’t work.
I think it will guide me to say no to the evil things the seculars and leftists try to say are good and fine and help me to stop someone else when I see someone close to me doing something bad. I think it will stop me from things my non-Catholic friends will try to get me to do (Spirit Boards, for example). Staying in Catholic school will likely nurture me to stay Catholic, speak up about unjust things (abortion) and never to stop proclaiming my faith, even when shunned from the secular society.
I plan, after Catholic high school, to go to JP Catholic, another devout Catholic college in San Diego, (that) focuses on creative arts. I plan to become a director and film writer and maker. I would like to, eventually, start my own film business and use it to spread the Faith and other Catholic ideals and virtues, starting with a movie of the last week of Jesus’ life, and stretching all the way to Bishop Fulton Sheen and other modern saints, trying to shine a light in the vast darkness of the world. I know I will likely be disliked for my movies by lots of people, but Jesus said it would happen, so that helps.
Samantha Masnica
God will always love you even if you aren’t close in the faith or you are slowly drifting away from God. He will always be there, waiting for you because you are his child. My faith will guide me in high school and beyond by focusing on the good actions I make, my values, and overall personality. I plan to continue growing in my faith by praying every day to be in the presence of God and always have him with me. Also, to just be a better person.
Ryan Lewis
The most important lessons that I have learned during my time at St. Kieran Catholic School are our school-wide learning expectations. These consist of, a life-long learner, a Catholic learner, and a responsible citizen. These expectations have helped shape me into the person I am today and affect all my decisions. Additionally, I learned to value the fact that everyone was born equal and should be treated equally.
I believe my faith will guide me throughout my high school experience by helping me to make decisions based on my Catholic values. Furthermore, I think it will help me to surround myself with like-minded people who help me to make good decisions and succeed academically and spiritually. Lastly, I have made it a habit to ask God to help me be the best version of myself.
I plan to continue growing in my faith by further educating myself in the faith and its teachings. Moreover, I plan to surround myself with virtuous peers who will share in our faith and learn more about the faith and grow closer to God. Lastly, every day, I ask God to help me grow in faith, hope and love, and I believe this will translate to my time in high school.
Isabelle Handy
The most important Catholic lesson I’ve learned is to continue growing in my faith, even if I am not going to a Catholic high school. There may be others who do not believe in God, but I will either inspire others or keep practicing my faith no matter what. My faith will guide me by providing me with people who will be able to help me grow in my faith. I have learned that God always provides. I plan to pray every night and never stop.
Emily Homer
I have learned to continue growing in my faith even if others disagree with me. For example, my faith does not waiver when people try to argue about the existence of God. God will guide me through the hard times, and I will become closer to him. I will continue to grow by going to church at my new high school and sharing my faith with new friends.
Ellie Klem
I learned that, anytime I am stressed about anything, I can ask God for help. I will carry this to high school for any time I have a test or lots of homework. It will guide me by continuing to ask God for help and have him with me. I am planning on going to church and staying close to God and Mary.
James Lentz
One of the most important lessons I learned at this school is the history of the Church and how my religion came to be. I tend to want to take this to my high school life and beyond that, showing how I can show my faith to others from what I learned. My faith will guide me into the right direction during high school. This can be shown through how I act and making the right decisions instead of following others, and finding better things to do like going to church and praying. … I plan to grow more by going to church every day and helping others in need when they need it. Another way I can help grow my faith is by sharing the faith to others to inspire and encourage them to believe in my faith as well.
Sophia Pass-Tostado
The most important lesson I learned is to treat everyone the same, no matter how different they are from me. I think my faith will guide me in high school to be a better and nicer person. I plan on continuing traditions like Mass every Sunday and rosary often.
Camila Sanchez
One Catholic lesson I’m taking with me is my faith. My faith has increased during my time at St. Mary and I hope to keep growing in my faith at high school and the rest of my life. My faith will guide me by becoming a better person. My faith gives me patience, honesty and humility. I hope that these traits will guide throughout my time in high school. I plan to keep growing in my faith by praying and reminding myself of the traits I’ve been trying to increase overtime.
Andrew Tellez
One of the most important Catholic lessons I’ve learned is to always remain faithful in God and what he leads me to do. I know that his plans are good for me. My faith will guide me in high school by helping me make the right choices. Keep going into church and altar serve. I will continue to serve my community.
Elia Aguiniga
The most important Catholic lessons I learned in Catholic school is forgiveness. My faith will help me make important choices. I plan to keep growing my faith by trying to be more involved in my church.
Sebastian Aguirre
A variety of the most important lessons I’ve learned in Catholic school would be being kind to one another, being humble, respecting my elders, and relying on Jesus’ faith, rather than simply just mine. I believe these are immensely useful, as they provide a way to live in God’s footsteps and Bible teachings.
I am convinced that my Catholic knowledge and faith will guide me in high school, by leading me to accomplish many goals I have in mind, therefore leading me to do extraordinary things. Furthermore, I strongly believe that my faith will guide me to be respectful and confident.
I plan to continue raising my beliefs, by firstly keeping my position as an altar server at St. Rose of Lima, founding, or joining a Bible study group, and finally, praying and reading my Father’s book every day.
Aaron Angulo
The most important lesson I learned is keeping God close to me, no matter what. No matter what happens, there will always good will happen with God. I plan to continue growing in my faith by praying more.
Camila Barba
The most important lesson I learned is that God will be here for every mistake and step of my life, telling me what to do right … Faith will guide me in high school by showing me right and wrong in the things I do. I plan to continue growing my faith by being consistent with doing daily prayers.
Juan Pablo Cervantes
That God will always be with me through hard times and will help me by putting things in my path to help me with my problems. By giving me the wisdom and the courage to keep going when I’m struggling and I’m trying to do something challenging. By staying with God throughout my life and reading the Word of the Lord to help me get wisdom whenever I need help.
Ximena Contreras
Some of the most important Catholic lessons I learned in Catholic schools that I am taking with me to high school and beyond is that God is always there for you, and he is always listening and ready to forgive. I think that, whenever I am struggling with something, God will always be there to help me get through it. I plan to keep going to church, praying and practicing Catholic traditions.
Jeb De La Rosa
The Theological Virtues, Cardinal Virtues, remembering to stay away from the Seven Deadly sins, Fruit of the Spirit, and these two verses: John 3:16 (“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that everyone who believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life”) and Joshua 1:9 (“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go”).
It will lead me to the right path to where I should be in life. What I should pursue for a career. Also, when I feel lost in life, when I pray, I know God will provide help. Even though his helping hand is sometimes confusing.
Continuing to go to church every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation. Also, following the good morals of my religion. Treat others with good virtue such as respect, courtesy, etc.
Isabella Esparza
The most important Catholic lessons I have learned are forgiveness, gratitude, peace and hope. I think my faith will guide me in high school to be a better person. I plan to be more involved in my church.
Natalie Espinoza
Some of the most important lessons I have learned are about Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I have learned about him and how we came to be and all of the miracles he performed. I appreciate how much he has sacrificed for us to be free. I learned about how to be a great Catholic by going to Mass and treating others with kindness and respect, no matter how they may look. My faith will help me navigate the difficulties and hardships I may come across during my years in high school. I will lean on the Lord and pray when things are difficult. I plan to keep expanding my faith by always seeking to learn more about Our Lord and his sacrifices.
Omar Gonzalez
The most important lesson I learned in Catholic school is that I should always believe in God, and that God will always be with me. I will always know that God is with me during my high school time. I plan to go to a Catholic high school and participate in religious activities to grow in my faith.
Raymond Gonzalez
To bring ALL of my knowledge to my studies and athletic programs! The Lord will lead me into a good pathway. By praying more and staying faithful!
Lukas Higuera
I learned that you have treat others the way you want to be treated and people will want to be with you and like you because you treat them well. I think my faith will guide me to the right path in high school. I plan to keep going to church and keep praying every day.
Ava Lopez
How Jesus died for our sins for us to have a chance to be in Heaven with him forever, and how, through my actions, I should follow with respect, kindness and fairness. It will help guide me to make good decisions, and to complete and turn in my assignments on time. To go to Mass every Sunday, or on days that I have nothing planned on to grow closer to God, listen to the liturgy, live my every day life through the teachings of God.
Sofia Morrow
The most important lesson I learned in Catholic school is to never judge someone based on how others perceive them. I think my faith will allow me to be kind to everyone, which will help me make lots of friends. I will grow in my faith by listening to my religion teachers and priests, and also by going on retreats and field trips that will help me learn about the Catholic faith and how to be a better Catholic.
Aranza Murga
The most important Catholic lesson I have learned in this school is to always be faithful to God and trust in his plan for us. We need to live by the Catholic virtues and treat everyone with respect and love. I believe my faith will further on my curiosity about our religion, and I will aspire to learn more about it and be more faithful to it. I plan to keep going to Mass, read religion stories and try to live every day in Jesus’ steps.
Elyse Romano
The most important Catholic lessons I learned in Catholic school that I am taking with me is the important lesson of God’s existence. My faith will guide me to strive for growing faith and to do my best. I plan to continue growing in my faith by attending Mass more often and doing community work.
Juan Carlos Ruiz
That faith is in everything, including science and in everyday objects. By helping me through hard time that will affect my schoolwork, faith and Church will also give you a community that is actively helping others through their personal problems. By showing how science belongs in faith.
Emma Santillan
The most important lesson I learned is that God is beside me in whatever I do and wherever I go. Faith will guide me by getting me through all obstacles. I will keep doing community duty and will add God in everything I do.
