SJA Senior Receives First Holy Communion After Faith Journey
Dat Nguyen, a senior at SJA, received his First Holy Communion on May 23 after a personal journey marked by a deep desire to grow closer to Christ. What began as a simple conversation last year became months of preparation, sacrifice, and quiet perseverance as Dat committed himself to receiving the sacraments.
The journey was not an easy one. As an international student from Vietnam without a local parish community, Dat faced additional obstacles throughout the process. Yet when he was asked whether he wanted to prepare for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, his answer was immediate: yes.
That “yes” was met by many others within the SJA community. Frater Dominic spent the year teaching and guiding Dat through sacramental preparation. Theology teacher Chris O’Donnell carefully researched and compiled an appropriate list of catechetical texts, while Barbara de La Torre approved and purchased the materials needed for instruction. Fr. George prepared Dat for his first confession, and second-grade teacher, Zarina Berens, coordinated the logistics necessary to include him fully in the sacramental process.
Together, their efforts made possible what otherwise may never have happened. Each person willingly took on the work required to accompany Dat in his pursuit of the sacraments, supporting him every step of the way.
On May 13, shortly after turning 18, Dat officially registered as a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. When asked later why he chose to pursue the sacraments as a senior, Dat explained simply that “with Christ comes love and peace,” and that he wanted Christ to be more fully part of his life.
Dat’s reception of the Eucharist reflects not only his own commitment to the faith, but also the beautiful way the community came together to help guide a young person toward Christ.
