Walking with Mary: Efraen Amarillas’ Journey from Firefighter to Faithful Disciple
Mama Vicki and I were blessed to interview Efraen Amarillas, a firefighter and paramedic from Phoenix, for our podcast
Cycles and Sanctity. Efraen and I met at the
Young Catholic Professionals Conference a few weeks ago. In this episode, he shares his transformative spiritual journey. Initially skeptical about attending a Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) conference. Efraen's experience there ignited a profound commitment to his faith. This blog delves into his story of rediscovery, the pivotal role of the Rosary, and the strength found in community support.
From Skepticism to Spiritual Awakening
Efraen’s journey began with hesitation. Invited to the 2024 YCP conference, he was unsure about what to expect. However, the experience proved to be a turning point. Participating in Mass, receiving the Sacrament of Confession, and engaging with fellow young Catholics provided a sense of belonging and spiritual rejuvenation. The event's emphasis on integrating faith into professional life resonated deeply with him, leading to a renewed commitment to his spiritual path.
Embracing the Rosary: A Tool for Healing
Central to Efraen's spiritual growth is his devotion to the Rosary, particularly the Sorrowful Mysteries. He credits this practice with helping him navigate personal challenges and deepen his relationship with God. The Rosary became a source of comfort and strength, guiding him through periods of doubt and difficulty. Inspired by online resources like Gabby Castillo's YouTube channel
(Gabby After Hours), Efraen incorporated daily Rosary prayers into his routine, finding solace in its meditative rhythm.
The Influence of Family and Heritage
Efraen's faith journey is deeply rooted in his family, especially the influence of his mother and grandmother. Their unwavering devotion and encouragement played a significant role in shaping his spiritual outlook. Reflecting on his upbringing, Efraen acknowledges the foundational values instilled in him and the importance of returning to those roots during times of spiritual dryness.
Consecration to Mary: A Deeper Commitment
In November 2024, Efraen took a significant step by consecrating himself to Mary. This act symbolized a deeper surrender to God's will and an acknowledgment of Mary's role as his Spiritual Mother and Intercessor. The consecration marked a milestone in his faith journey, reinforcing his dedication to living a life aligned with Catholic Teachings.
Navigating Personal Challenges with Faith
Efraen candidly discusses his personal struggles, including challenges in relationships and the importance of setting boundaries aligned with his faith. He emphasizes the significance of the Sacrament of Confession in overcoming personal shortcomings and the necessity of perseverance in maintaining one's spiritual commitments. His experiences underscore the transformative power of faith in addressing and healing personal wounds.
The Power of Community and Visibility
Recognizing the importance of community, Efraen encourages young adults to actively engage with their parishes and seek out faith-based groups. He advocates for visibility in one's faith journey, sharing his own experiences of posting about church visits on social media as a means of inspiration and accountability. Effraen believes that by being open about one's faith, others may be encouraged to explore or deepen their own spiritual paths.
Encouragement for Young Adults
Efraen offers practical advice for young adults seeking to strengthen their faith:
Connect with Local Parishes: Engage with your local church community to find support and opportunities for spiritual growth.
Join Young Adult Groups: Participate in groups that align with your faith values to build meaningful relationships.
Initiate Faith Activities: Start or join activities like Rosary prayer groups to foster a deeper connection with your faith.
Be Visible in Your Faith: Share your spiritual journey openly to inspire and encourage others.
Conclusion: A Journey of Faith and Service
Efraen Amarillas' story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, the importance of community, and the enduring influence of family. His journey from skepticism to deep spiritual commitment serves as an inspiration for others navigating their own paths. Through prayer, community engagement, and a willingness to be open about his faith, Efraen exemplifies how embracing one's spirituality can lead to profound personal growth and fulfillment.