The Transformative Power of a Faith-Filled Community

At Saint Thomas Aquinas we share in the commitment to guide young people toward a deeper relationship with Christ.

This past Easter, 11 students from Saint Thomas Aquinas High School made the profound decision to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church. Among them, three were baptized, three were confirmed, and five received both their First Communion and Confirmation. Additionally, two alumni chose to join the Church and received their First Communion and Confirmation. These moments are a powerful testament to the vibrant faith within our school community and the lasting influence of our teachers, staff, chaplain, coaches, and students, who inspire others to grow closer to Christ through their daily witness.

To an outsider, he or she might wonder why a student who is not Catholic would attend a Catholic school high school. As a Catholic high school in the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas, we attract students from all walks of faith due to our welcoming and the mission of Catholic education—to nurture spiritual growth in all students, regardless of where they begin their journey.

Bella, a 2024 graduate, has chosen to join the Catholic Church this spring because of her experience at Saint Thomas Aquinas. Bella grew up in the Methodist church and was always searching for a way to be closer to God. She would attend many other church services and always leave with questions. She decided to attend Saint Thomas Aquinas and that is where her journey to Catholicism began. Bella among a few other graduates of Saint Thomas Aquinas were initiated into the Catholic Church this Easter Season. She acknowledges her faith was deeply impacted when she walked through the doors of Aquinas. 

Through my theology classes and teachers, the Aquinas Chaplains, the retreats and the amazing humans I met at Aquinas, I knew when I graduated last May that I wanted to dive deeper into the Catholic faith and take the next step to being a part of the Catholic Church. Aquinas allowed me to ask questions and search for answers with their unwavering support. I never felt alone in my journey as I grew a closer relationship with Christ.

Bella, '24

Bella’s story is just one of many—a testament to the profound impact of the Saint Thomas Aquinas community. From the moment students walk through our doors, they are embraced by a faith-filled family that nurtures and inspires. Here, we don’t just speak the word of God; we live it in every moment, in every interaction. Our teachers are more than educators—they are mentors, role models, and beacons of Christ’s love, guiding students not only through lessons but through the example of their own lives. Our mission is deeply personal: to help each student recognize the beautiful gifts God has given them and to walk with them as they grow into the people He has called them to be.

For 36 years, Saint Thomas Aquinas has remained steadfast in its commitment to faith formation. Within the long standing traditions - one thing has remained constant: our love for Christ and our eagerness to share it with others. Our teachers are the pillars of this mission, sacrificing time and energy to be present for their students—not just during school hours, but far beyond. Their dedication is an embodiment of Christ’s love and selflessness. 

That is why we celebrate these 13 students and alumni who have chosen to walk the path of faith through the RCIA program. Their journey is a testament to the work being done at Saint Thomas Aquinas. This is the fruit of living faith in action, proof that Christ is alive within our community. 

Keegan,'25 one of the nine students initiated, describes his eagerness to join the Catholic faith because of a student named Nate who has supported, guided and helped explain all the evidence he was trying to make sense of. Keegan describes the Saints Community as a pillar of support as he began to navigate this journey to Catholicism. 

The community here is what I like to say is humility in their faith. They do not preach so everyone can see them do it but they live it out in everything they do. I had no idea what the Catholic faith was or how I would be accepted. I have never felt uncomfortable by a student, teacher or staff member for seeking answers to my questions. My friend Nate has walked me through this journey and has helped me along the way.

Keegan, '25

We are not simply building institutions—we are disciples on the road to sainthood, participating in the greater work of God. Let us rejoice in every teacher, staff member, coach, chaplain, student, and volunteer who leads others to Christ, knowing that we are all walking this journey of faith together. This is His mission, and we are blessed to be a part of it.

We are ALL called to be Saints!

About the Contributor

Guest contributor, Samantha Paradise, '03, Director of Community Relations