Congratulations to all those who will receive their sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist) and will be received into full communion with the Catholic Church this evening at 6:00 PM. Although the Mass will not be open to the public we invite you to view it on our live-stream at http://5ff.994.myftpupload.com/live-stream/ or on Facebook.
Michael Agron: I am enthusiastic about finally becoming a Christian because Father Ralph Thomas shared with me that “Jesus came to fulfill the Law.” I am looking forward to growing with God and others by learning about prayer and meditation. I look forward to actively helping God’s creation of people, animals and nature. Some of my interests include long distance swimming, studying the Bible, hiking, learning foreign languages and reading.
Chad Barnard: A couple of years ago I began a journey to get my mind, body and soul in a more healthy way. Last Fall that journey was escalated as events happened after I had already joined the RCIA group. I believe these events were a blessing as many things in my life have changed since then. Even though I am about to be fully united in the Catholic Church, this is still just the beginning for me as I continue to learn, understand and grow in my relationship with the Lord and the Church.
Stephen Dabney: My name is Stephen Dabney and I am 10 years old. I have a cat named Lincoln & a dog named Nina. I like to play all sports, swim & play outside. I am good at fixing things & I like to build things. I am excited about receiving my sacraments because I want to become closer to Jesus and my church. I am happy my family will be here to celebrate with me.
Gesualdo Family: My name is Michelle Gesualdo and this is my husband Dave and our two boys Joey and Johnny. We are blessed to be receiving our sacraments together as a family and becoming fully initiated at Immaculate Heart of Mary. Everyone we have met has been so welcoming and we are excited to become more involved in the future.
Denise Heller: My journey to the Catholic church began when I married my Catholic husband in 2008. It took many years of attending Mass to help me realize the difference between attending Mass and being a true member of the church. I am looking forward to fully participating and growing closer to God.
Abigail Johnson: My name is Abigail Hope Johnson, and I am a 5th grade student at Immaculate Heart of Mary. I love playing games with my family, being outside, spending time with my friends, and playing volleyball, basketball, and soccer. I am excited to receive my First Communion and Confirmation and be fully united into the Catholic Church because I am growing closer to God.
Isabella Johnson: My name is Isabella Rose Johnson, and I am an 8th grade student at Immaculate Heart of Mary. I love watching movies with my family, hanging out with my friends, and playing volleyball. I am excited to strengthen my relationship with God as I receive my First Communion and Confirmation and be fully united into the Catholic Church.
Michael Kunce: I was born in Akron, raised in Cuyahoga Falls. Graduated from CF High School in 1981. Attended University of Akron with degrees in Finance and Marketing with an MBA from Akron as well. Lived in Akron since 1988. I have 2 daughters from a previous marriage. Emma turned 21 yesterday and Audrey is 18 years old. Emma will be a senior at Walsh University studying Nursing and Audrey will be attending OSU in the fall. My entire career has been with real estate…leasing and managing office buildings in downtown Akron and apartments in Akron. I serve on the board of Our Lady of the Elms School. I want to join the Catholic church to receive the Eucharist and to become closer with God and the scripture and sacred tradition.
Anthony Mara: I have always grown up with a close relationship with the Lord and the Lord has helped grow my relationship with others such as my grandparents, mother, and fiancée. I am excited to continue my faith and finally complete my sacraments after such a long time.
