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By Carmine Steffens, Special Contributor
Autumn is a time of transitions for most families. Moving from the freedom of summer vacation to the discipline of school, starting kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, and high school can throw families for a real loop. Getting back-to-school clothes in order, buying school supplies, settling into different routines and bus schedules produce much stress and confusion in families.
The transition from high school to college can be among the most difficult, as parents say “goodbye” and young people venture out into the world on their own for the first time. The natural anchors of home, community and Church aren’t readily available, and the choices for building new relationships of support can be difficult. In the first few months of college, many can feel lost.
I am one of the young people starting as a college freshman. For me, the goal (and challenge) is to keep God present and close throughout the transition. All people, young or old, often prioritize other things above their relationship with Jesus. There is a strong temptation as a young person to think that we have things handled, that we can make it on our own. Jesus knows we are not perfect, and he is here to walk with us down this new path. It is also important to lean into and hold onto the faith and values we received from our families and parish communities as children. The Church, the Body of Christ, the community of faith is the same no matter where we go. Church can always feel like home.
Some of us may enter college thinking: “This is what I’m going to do.” Others may start out not really knowing. It is important to remember that God has made each of us with a purpose in mind. Staying connected to God through prayer can help us discover that purpose at school. Trust in God, trust in God’s plan, and trust that God will love us no matter what.
Prayer is an interesting, it allows us to engage with God’s invitation to a personal, intimate relationship. I often find myself speaking to God spontaneously throughout the day. Prayers do not have to be memorized and repeated. Prayer can even prompt us to action in service of others. Service can help us build community while we are away from home.
God works in mysterious ways, and he will redirect our paths as it fits his will. At first, I planned to attend Monmouth University in West Long Branch to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration, then spend an extra year earning my MBA. Something told me this was not the right path, so I withdrew and enrolled in an online program through St. Joseph’s College of Maine. For me, it was important to stay close to my home base – family and Church. This will not be everyone’s choice, but those two pillars – family and Church – remain important for all of us.
Parents, please let your college-bound children know you are praying for them! Encourage them to connect with the Catholic community near school or join the college Catholic group/ministry. Send us a praying hands emoji text once in a while, especially during midterms and finals! Knowing that you have our backs, supported by you in partnership with God.
The coming period of change can be scary. Know that God is journeying with us, and our families are there to love and support us in God’s name. God’s plan for us is greater than any force that could be working against us. I wish everyone the best of luck in college, and I hope you know that all will remain in my prayers.
Carmine Steffens is a member of St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, and a student in St. Joseph’s College of Maine,
Faith at Home is a monthly column coordinated by the Diocese of Trenton’s Departments of Catechesis, evangelization and Family Life, and Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For additional Faith at Home resources, visit dioceseoftrenton.org/faith-at-home.