Favorite scripture and why: Matthew 6:25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?”In today’s society, it is easy to get caught up in the superficial glamour and the new budding technology. It’s simple to lose track of what’s more important than shopping or downloading the newest app for your iPhone. Many of us, including myself, are guilty of this. Even back then, appearance seemed to take a precedence in many people’s lives, but the message has remained the same throughout the years, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt 6: 33). If we put God first, things will fall into their proper place. This scripture is special to me because through realizing that God is the ultimate importance of my life, all these add-ons and concerns become unnecessary. It doesn’t matter what I wear or what new gadget I have, all that matters is God.

Favorite part of Core Team: My favorite part of Core Team is our group-bonding, whether it be Dollar Scoop Tuesdays, Wing Night, movie nights, or hangouts. Camp Emmaus was the ultimate group-bonding experience and it has impacted my life and faith in the most positive way. When I’m surrounded by peers who share the same love for our faith I feel like I can achieve almost anything. When we are all together it feels like a huge family gathering where everyone is connected to each other in the strongest way, through God’s love. The most valuable friends I have are the ones I have through church.

What does your faith mean to you: My faith is the glue that holds together the pieces of my life. When I’m faced with different challenges and questions from school, sports, friends, or family; with no one to turn to, I turn to my faith. I have learned that God does not give you anything He knows you can’t handle. Remembering that God loves me is more than enough to keep my world from crumbling.

Most influential person in your faith: The most influential person in my faith is my little brother. He is a living, breathing miracle and I’m glad to have him in my life. He is someone I look up to, even if he is younger than me. His fervor to learn about his faith is infectious and seeing him strive to strengthen his relationship with God makes me happy. I feel like he’s taught me so many things, like how to be more kind, patient, and loving, how to laugh at yourself, and to never give up. He is truly a gift from God.

If you could ask God one question, what would it be: I would ask God, “What is my role in this world?” This year I will have to make so many life-altering decisions to make but they will all be chosen without a definite future in my mind. The only thing I am sure of is that God will be with me on my journey towards self-discovery.

If you could leave a message to the high school students after you, what would it be: Stay strong and believe in yourself. You are special and loved by God and by others, never doubt that. Do not be discouraged by the challenges you are brought face, for you will always have God on your side. Through the words of James Dean, “Dream as if you'll live forever. Live as if you'll die today.”