My faith journey in Miami

By AnnMary Terrence

Our Church need us. 

As a child I remember volunteering to altar serve. I didn’t have to think too hard about it. Fast forward nine years, at the age of 18, I’m still helping at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Miami, Arizona. I’m also a freshman at the University of Arizona in Tucson. When I’m home visiting, I help, when I’m away in college I think of ways I can help. We all can.

My parents have always raised my brother and I in the Catholic faith, and that strong foundation has shaped who I am and how I serve today. Over that time, I’ve had the blessing of serving God and our community in many different ways. Together with my family, I’ve contributed to decorating the church for different liturgical seasons and events. I’ve had the opportunity to help with the church fiesta, teach catechism to kindergartners, and guide new altar servers as they began their journey. One special experience I will always remember was attending the Rosary Celebration at Saint Augustine Cathedral, where both my brother and I were honored to be selected to assist with the ceremony.

Being involved in the life of the Church has shaped who I am today. It has deepened my faith and reminded me of how much God has done for me. 

Every time I serve—whether it's at the altar or behind the scenes—I do it for God, and for no other reason. I don’t see it as a duty or chore, but as a way to give back in gratitude for everything he has given me.

My journey with the parish has taught me the importance of showing up, of saying “yes” when help is needed, and of walking with others in faith. It's also shown me that we, especially the youth, play a powerful role in keeping the Church alive and thriving.

I truly believe that when we come together as a community, with open hearts and hands ready to serve, the rewards—spiritually and personally—are greater than we can imagine. 

No matter where life takes me, I will always be ready to serve the Church. This is my way of honoring God and staying close to Him.