I have been part of the Shalom Catholic Community prayer group for over a year, blessed with the opportunity to share my testimony of how the Holy Spirit has transformed my life. I was born and raised, and live in Toronto, Ontario.  I did not quite grow up as a cradle Catholic, but my Mom’s side of the family has had a strong Catholic faith and history, coming from Malta. Although I was baptized at birth, I was not practicing my faith, since my mom was not anymore at the time, and neither was my dad. Besides attending Mass on certain days of obligation, such as Christmas and Easter, I did not have a deep understanding or interest of my faith, ...

I first prayed a rosary in December 2022, for no discernible reason except that I was exhausted and unhappy with my life. I surrendered and asked for help. Doors began to open after that, doors which I never expected to open. In January 2023, I found a tradition/ practice (and it found me) that seemed to bring out my courage, energy, and determination. Virgin Mary revealed herself to me there, and the Cross revealed itself in my heart. I began to live matters of faith. I dove into the world of this practice: I found my footing there, and I came to care for the people. It quickly rooted in my life & identity. Then my life crumbled in 2023 ...