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It had been years since I had stepped foot in a church. It was September 2016 at St. Dorothy parish in Glendora. I went to Mass. Worship was the last thing on my mind. I wanted to be around people that were bettering themselves. I wanted to grow. I wasn't thinking about God. Still, I had felt a pull. I remember being moved by the Gospel and homily, as if they were for me alone. Hesitant, I walked to the worship leader Josh after Mass. I had known him from years back when I was a volunteer in youth ministry. 2 lifetimes ago. With a big smile and hug Josh welcomed me. I always knew him as someone remarkably authentic. He hadn't changed, and I wanted to be like that. I knew I had no idea what love was, how to do it. I wanted to learn how to love genuinely. Not fake it. I asked Josh if there was a group with people my age. He said there wasn't but he knew I played music and I could join the worship band. I had no desire to worship. I was in a band and burnt out on playing shows/recording an album. I was ready to quit music. I looked over at a group of 12+ musicians and singers and said "Josh, I think there are enough people in the band." He laughed and agreed. He asked me if I'd like to volunteer for the youth group. I sighed. I didn't want to volunteer. I didn't want to lead anything. I was too old for the youth group. I wanted to learn how to love well! I was terrible at it! "Ok," I said. He pointed me to a guy named Patrick who told me to head to the hall to find Tommy. I found Tommy and sat down to witness a skit, worship music and a talk. Youth group hadn't changed much since I was in high school. That was the beginning of a year of renewal in my life.

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