A Journey of Faith: Growing Together in God's Love at Cotter Schools

Submitted by JANA KORDER

At Cotter Schools, faith is more than something we practice - it is something we live, breathe, and share as a community. This year, students from St. Luke Hall are embracing the beauty of God’s grace in profound ways, deepening their connection to Christ and one another.

Fifteen students, along with their families, have begun preparing for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Communion. Each Wednesday, they gather in prayer, learning about God’s mercy and the Eucharist. Their journey will culminate in May at Saint Mary’s Church, where they will receive Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament for the first time.

Nine of these students recently took their first steps in faith through Baptism, embraced by God’s love and the Cotter community.

Nine Cotter students recently received the Sacrament of Baptism at St. Mary's Church in Winona. They pose here with their families and St. Mary's Pastor Fr. Russ Scepaniak.

Westin, one of the newly baptized, shared: "I asked my teacher if I could get baptized and take Communion, and then so many other kids wanted to as well. When Father Russ poured the oil on my head, I felt so clean in my soul - like I had no sin at that moment."

Mrs. Donahue, a fourth-grade teacher at Cotter, describes this movement of faith: "The Word of the Lord is on fire here - our students want to learn about God."

She recalled a student eagerly asking how to receive Communion, showing the deep faith growing in these young hearts.

The newly baptized students

Charlotte, another student preparing for Communion, said, "I love learning Bible stories because they help me know who God is and that I am in His family forever."

This sense of faith and community was also present when St. Luke students joined friends from St. Mary’s Church for a Eucharistic activity night. Through a partnership with St. Mary’s Parish, led by Father Russ, Cotter students explored the Eucharist, shared in fellowship, and strengthened their spiritual bonds.

Father Russ affirmed, "Yes, this is the Pope’s direction. We want to bring people to our Church."

Nathan, another student in the First Communion class, reflected: "Every time I receive the Body and Blood of Jesus, I feel closer to God. I know He sacrificed Himself for me so I can live with Him forever."

Jesus' words -“Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”-ring especially true for these students. Their faith is inspiring those around them, and we know God has great plans for them.

Jana Korder manages communications, marketing and brand identity for Cotter Schools in Winona.