Ella Wilson was accepted into the Catholic Church at Mass on Easter Saturday 2026. Here she reflects on how she has been welcomed and how her life has changed.
How does it feel to be a Catholic now? And how does it compare to the expectation leading up to baptism?
Becoming Catholic has significantly changed the way I view every aspect of my life. As a Catechumen, I always tried my best to live by Catholic values, but at times I felt somewhat on the outside. I am still learning something new every day but now I feel a much deeper sense of connection and belonging. Being fully part of the faith feels incredibly meaningful. It has become the foundation of everything I do. I find myself reflecting more intentionally and always trying to see God in every encounter. Trusting that I am walking the path God has set for me brings me a sense of peace and helps calm my stress and uncertainty.
How would you describe the welcome you received from those in the church and your parish?
Throughout this journey, I have received so much support from my parish, others in my RCIA program, my work community, my friends, and my family. I truly felt that this milestone was celebrated, and I was so excited to officially begin this new chapter as a Catholic. My favourite encounter is always when people ask me questions about my experience and why I chose to go through this process. I absolutely love talking about it and sharing my faith journey with others.
Ella Wilson, pictured centre with glasses, is one of a record number of catechumens seeking to be baptised on Holy Saturday. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
To what extent did this feeling of welcome influence your decision to become Catholic?
When I finally attended Mass at my local parish, I realised I already knew more people there than I expected. The welcome I experienced was quiet and reverent, yet incredibly powerful. Whenever people asked about my journey, they responded with genuine pride, encouragement, and support. That feeling of belonging had a significant influence on my decision to become Catholic. What stood out most to me was the strong sense of community and seeing people genuinely live out their faith. Through both my school and parish community, I felt supported throughout my journey and gradually came to realise that this was where I belonged.
Has this welcome inspired you in other parts of your life?
Being welcomed into the Catholic community has inspired many parts of my life. I like to think of God as the backbone to everything I do. My faith has encouraged me to reflect on the way I represent myself, how I treat others, and how I approach different challenges in life. I try to remain optimistic in difficult situations and remind myself that I am on the path God has placed me on. This sense of faith and trust has given me a stronger sense of purpose and guidance in both the big and small parts of my life.
This article was originally published in the 2026 June | Winter edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read it online here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
