Proud to Be Catholic

BY BLAKELY SCHIFFMAN

Most Catholic parishioners would have no problem stating that they are indeed a Catholic. However, when asked why they are proud to be Catholic, they may hesitate at first. Although we all stamp the label “Catholic” on ourselves, we rarely take the time to appreciate the faith, and why we are proud to be a part of it. Personally, I am proud to be a Catholic because I love feeling included in the Catholic community.  Our community is so extensive and broad, that we sometimes underestimate its size and impact on everyday life.  

One of the best parts about being a Catholic is attending Mass every Sunday. I am a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Ronkonkoma. I have been attending Mass here with my family ever since I was baptized. We take the ability to go to Mass for granted. Some people in other countries do not have the chance to publically practice their faith with members of their community. This is something that is accepted as “normal” in the United States, therefore we know no other way.  Imagine having to pray privately, with the fear that you may be caught praying the rosary. Many people today live with this fear, and we need to be thankful for our religious freedom and the ability to attend Sunday Mass.

Starting in kindergarten, I attended religious education classes once per week. I am proud that as a Catholic, I was able to learn about my faith starting at a young age. Classes continued up until eighth grade, when I made my Confirmation. Once you make your Confirmation, you are no longer required to take these classes. However, there are still ways to continue practicing your faith apart from Sunday Mass. My Church has a youth group that meets on the last Sunday of every month. I am proud to be a Catholic because I started my religious education at a young age, and continue it even after my
Confirmation.

Most Catholic Churches have an outreach program that assists the people of our own towns. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish has an excellent outreach program that keeps an ongoing food pantry for the hungry residents in our community. During the holiday season, we have special events to assist the needy. Prior to Thanksgiving, the Church collects baskets of food to supply a Thanksgiving dinner for the less fortunate families of Long Island. My family and I always fill a huge box of food, and decorate the outside of the box for Thanksgiving. As Christmas approaches, a Christmas tree is placed in the lobby of my Church. The paper ornaments on the tree are detailed with a name, age, and an item to serve as a Christmas present. For example, a 40-year-old man may ask for work boots, and a 22-year-old woman may ask for a new pair of jeans. I always look forward to selecting an ornament, and buying a gift for a complete stranger. I am proud to be Catholic because staying active in my Church gives me an opportunity to give back to my community, through acts of charity.

Lastly, our country is filled with Catholic schools; from elementary schools, to high schools, and universities. Attending a Catholic high school allows me to learn about the faith in theology class, and to pray along with fellow classmates. At public school, students do not stand and say a quick prayer before each class. They do not pause before seventh period to recite the Angelus over the intercom. I am proud to be Catholic, and I am proud to attend a Catholic school because I will not be persecuted for my faith.

In conclusion, my pride in Catholicism lies in the feeling of acceptance. This is an acceptance into a community in which all members have something in common.  This community works together, prays together, helps each other, and supports each other. I am proud to be a part of this community, and to call myself a Catholic.

BLAKELEY SCHIFFMAN is a junior at St. Anthony’s High School, South Huntington.