College, Faith, and New Beginnings W/Sarah Larson's
College, Faith & New Beginings
With Sarah Larson (New Focus Missionary)
* The text below is a summary of the podcast above if you would like to hear the entire interview, please watch the YouTube video or click the audio file! (Video Live date 8/28/24)
Introduction
As we navigate through life, we often encounter individuals whose dedication and passion for their faith inspire us to reflect on our own spiritual journeys. Sarah Larson is one such individual, embarking on an incredible adventure as a FOCUS missionary. Her story is not just about her personal growth but also about how faith and community can shape and guide us. Today, I’m excited to share a bit about Sarah’s journey, her experiences as a Catholic in college, and her hopes for the future.
Who is Sarah Larson?
Sarah Larson is a dynamic and faith-filled young woman, passionate about her mission to serve others through the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS). With roots in Idaho, Sarah’s journey has taken her far beyond the familiar landscapes of the West, leading her to embrace new challenges and opportunities for spiritual growth. She is known for her warmth, her deep commitment to her faith, and her desire to make a difference in the lives of students across the country. When I first met Sarah, I was struck by her genuine enthusiasm and her openness about the challenges she faced in her faith journey. Her willingness to share her experiences, both the highs and the lows, makes her a relatable and inspiring figure for many young Catholics. As someone who has lived through the ups and downs of college life while staying true to her beliefs, Sarah offers a unique perspective on what it means to be a Catholic in today’s world.
FOCUS Summer Internship
Sarah’s involvement with FOCUS began during her college years when she connected with the organization early on. It didn’t take long for her to realize that this was more than just a summer project; it was a calling. Through FOCUS, she found a community of like-minded individuals who shared her passion for spreading the Gospel and supporting each other in their faith journeys. During her training with FOCUS, Sarah experienced what she described as a bit of a culture shock. Moving from Idaho to Florida, she noticed the differences in how people lived, spoke, and even practiced their faith. Despite the challenges, Sarah found the experience enriching and eye-opening, as it allowed her to grow in her understanding of the diverse ways in which people express their Catholic faith. One aspect of her training that stood out to Sarah was the chivalrous actions she observed among her fellow missionaries. Coming from a background where such traditions were less common, Sarah found it refreshing and a bit surprising to see how deeply these values were ingrained in the culture of the FOCUS community. Whether it was opening doors or simply saying hello, these small acts of kindness made a big impression on her and reinforced the importance of respect and courtesy in daily interactions.
Being a Catholic in College
College is often a time of exploration and self-discovery, and for many young Catholics, it’s also a time when their faith is tested. Sarah’s college experience was no different. She shared with me how, during her time at Belmont Abbey, it took her a while to fully embrace her faith and take it seriously. But once she did, she found that her connections with FOCUS and her Catholic friends played a significant role in her spiritual development. For Sarah, being a Catholic in college wasn’t always easy. There were moments of doubt and struggle, but through it all, she found solace and strength in her faith community. The friendships she formed and the experiences she had with FOCUS helped her navigate the complexities of college life and emerge stronger in her beliefs.
Hopes for This Year as a FOCUS Missionary
As Sarah embarks on her first year as a FOCUS missionary, her hopes are filled with excitement and a bit of nervous anticipation. She’s eager to connect with students and share her faith, but she’s also aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Whether it’s adjusting to a new culture in Tennessee or building relationships with her fellow missionaries, Sarah is ready to embrace whatever comes her way. One of the key aspects of being a FOCUS missionary is fundraising for the year. Sarah is currently seeking sponsors who can support her mission through monthly donations. This support is crucial as it covers her living expenses, allowing her to focus fully on her work with students. If you’re interested in supporting Sarah or learning more about her journey, you can easily find her online by searching for “Sarah Larson FOCUS.” Sarah’s enthusiasm for her mission is contagious, and I have no doubt that she will make a lasting impact on the students she encounters. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone to serve a higher purpose.
Conclusion
Sarah Larson’s journey as a FOCUS missionary is just beginning, but it’s already clear that she is poised to make a meaningful impact. Her experiences as a Catholic in college, her growth through FOCUS, and her hopes for the future all point to a young woman deeply committed to her faith and to helping others find their own paths to God. As she heads to Tennessee, we can all look forward to hearing more about her adventures and the lives she will touch along the way. If you’re moved by Sarah’s story and want to support her mission, consider reaching out to her via her social media or through the FOCUS website. Together, we can help Sarah and other missionaries like her continue their important work, bringing faith, hope, and love to college campuses across the country.