Genesis: A New Beginning
In the Catholic faith, Genesis is known as the story of Creation. However, at Archbishop Carroll Genesis is also the name of something else. It is the name of a prayer service of sorts held in our chapel. Students from all grades are welcome to come participate in this special and unique event.
Genesis is held every other Tuesday in Carroll’s beautiful chapel. The specifics of what happens during Genesis varies but typically it opens with a song, performed by students. Then, there is a reading and lastly Fr. Spez prompts the group with a question and asks for anyone who wants to, to give their witness in front of everyone. Usually to get things started Fr. Spez answers first. Then, once one student stands up, the floodgates burst open.
I have attended twice and each time a majority of the students stand up and speak to the group. It is amazing how open and honest people are at Genesis. It is a unique way to unite the students in the presence of God. Genesis is not mandatory like school Masses, so the students who attend Genesis are there because they want to be and have an interest in strengthening their faith. Both times I attended in the past so many people got up to talk that Genesis lasted for over two hours. It is indescribable the way you feel when you are listening to your classmates share their stories.
Genesis is a time for everyone to go and forget about their problems and stresses for a few hours. It is a a time to just let go and completely focus on God and being with your classmates. High school can get insanely busy and sometimes it is a lot for teenagers to handle. Therefore, it is extremely important to remember to take a breath every once in a while. Genesis is that breath. It gives us the opportunity to have a new beginning in regards to our faith, our friends, and ourselves.
Come to Genesis on Tuesday, February 13th and see for yourself!
