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I was invited to SLS by my bible study leader, Aaron Filzen, and I was a bit hesitant at first to go. However, after talking with my sister, who also went, I felt as though God was calling me to go on this trip to Chicago with a bus full of people I hardly knew. I remember being incredibly nervous the night before, but those nerves were eased very quickly the next morning. I quickly realized how different these people were from everyone else I interacted with on campus, and it was beautiful. Despite this realization, I did not realize that many of the people on that bus would turn out to be the people I would spend most of my time with over the next semester. The conference itself was incredible. The speakers, atmosphere, and huge group of Catholic people so on fire for their faith were all just remarkable. However, I think the people that made the trip a life changing experience were all the missionaries. It brings me such joy to look back on this time and see how clearly Christ is working in every one of these people. Specifically, the missionaries from Mankato, and their ability to bring in someone who knew so few of the people in this massive conference center, did such an incredible job in making me feel like I belonged with these people I had just met a few days ago. This experience was the kickstart to me really becoming involved with the Newman Center. However, more importantly it led to me developing my relationship with Christ, which is without a doubt, the most valuable thing could gain from my entire college experience. 2

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