STUDENT Spotlight
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Amari LIND
Amari’s Spiritual Journey… Back in 2024, Senior Amari Lind began his spiritual journey–a path that would lead him closer to God and deepen his understanding of what it means to live a life rooted in faith. On April 28, 2024, Amari took his first official step. At St. Jude Parish in Elyria, Amari was baptized by Fr. Joe Scalco. Just a week later, on May 6, he received his First Holy Communion. As Amari continued on this journey, he was blessed to be guided by Fr. John Seabold from Our Lady Queen of Peace in Grafton. Through his mentorship, he grew in understanding, prayer, and confidence as he prepared for his confirmation. Exactly a year after Amari’s baptism, on April 27, 2025, he was confirmed by Bishop Edward Malesic at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Cleveland. Amari reflects on his journey— Becoming Catholic has been one of the most meaningful decisions of my life. For me, it all really started in the classroom. My teacher, Mr. Juguilon, was the person who made me want to pursue my faith more deeply. The way he taught about Catholicism was different, he made learning about
“Our school prides itself on the Pillars of Elyria Catholic. Just like a table, the more legs it has, the more stable it is. The last pillar; Community of Church, school, and family, is an important one. We are happy to see when our student-athletes make the choice to enter the faith on their own accord. We celebrate #8 Amari Lind into the Catholic Church.” – EC Lacrosse Coach David Francway
it fun, engaging, and real. Instead of just memorizing facts, he showed us the beauty, the traditions, and the benefits of living with faith at the center of our lives. His passion inspired me and made me realize that faith wasn’t just something you study, it’s something you live. Through that experience, I started to understand what it meant to grow closer to God and to become part of something bigger than myself. I saw the sense of community, love, and guidance that the Catholic faith offers, and I wanted to be part of it. One Bible verse that has always stood out to me during this journey is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse reminds me that choosing to walk in faith is trusting that God has a plan for my life, and that being Catholic is part of that plan.
8 Elyria Catholic High School Magazine
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