As a boy, Michael Codo was inspired by his grandfather's devotion to the Catholic faith and the example of his twin brother, Mark. From them he learned about God from an early age and participated in family Rosaries, especially in remembrance of loved ones who had passed away. Yet while the Catholic faith was a part of his life, it was not the center of it.

For the past eight years of his adult life, however, Michael's primary focus was earning his associate degree in General Studies. Balancing coursework and personal health challenges left little time to explore his faith more deeply. During that period, however, he began sensing a desire for something more. He longed for a closer relationship with God and a greater sense of purpose.

That search led him to join a Bible study group in the fall of 2023. As he immersed himself in Scripture and began attending Mass more regularly, his faith gradually became an important part of his daily life.

While his college studies demanded much of his time and energy, Michael continued taking small but meaningful steps toward God. After graduating in 2025, he finally had the opportunity to devote himself more fully to his spiritual growth. At the invitation of his brother Mark, he enrolled in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) at St. Raphael Catholic Church in Naperville. For Michael, saying "yes" to OCIA felt like the natural next step.

Through the program, he deepened his understanding of the Catholic faith, learning about the Holy Trinity, the Beatitudes, the sacraments, and the lives of the saints. More importantly, he encountered Christ in a deeper and more personal way. Each lesson helped him better understand God's love and strengthened his commitment to living as a disciple.

One saint in particular resonated with Michael during this time: St. Peter. Michael was inspired by Peter's humanity, his failures, and his unwavering willingness to follow Christ despite his shortcomings. Peter's journey reminded him that God calls ordinary people to extraordinary missions. Moved by that example, Michael chose St. Peter as his Confirmation saint.

As his faith matured, Michael began to see many moments of his life through a new lens. He found renewed appreciation for the role his grandfather played in shaping his spiritual foundation. Although his grandfather passed away in 2022, memories of their conversations about God continue to guide him today. The family Rosaries he prays in his grandfather's memory have become a cherished reminder of the faith they shared and the spiritual bond that endures.

OCIA also introduced Michael to a vibrant community of believers. Along the way, he formed new friendships with fellow Catholics who encouraged him in his walk with Christ and challenged him to put his faith into action. That call to action soon became a central part of his life.

Today, Michael actively serves his parish in a number of ways. On Friday evenings, he often spends time in prayer for those struggling with health concerns and for deceased loved ones.

As a member of the Knights of Columbus, he participates in parish events like the Tootsie Roll Drive to raise money for people with intellectual disabilities and the parish Pancake Breakfast, finding joy in serving others and building community. Through the brotherhood of Knights, Michael has found another avenue to grow in his faith while serving others.

Looking back, Michael recognizes how profoundly one invitation changed his life. A simple encouragement from his brother opened the door to a deeper relationship with Christ, stronger ties to his family, and a greater sense of purpose. What began as a search for meaning became a journey of discipleship.

Today, Michael is more than a student of the Catholic faith. He is a witness to its transformative power, living out his beliefs through prayer, service, and community. His story reminds us that God often works through the people closest to us and that a single invitation can become the beginning of a life changed by grace.

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