Carlos Macias, recipient of a scholarship made possible through a planned gift to Notre Dame, is a senior studying neuroscience and behavior with minors in musical theatre and Latino studies. Though his experience has not been that of a “typical” student—he lives off-campus with his wife, Allison, and their daughter, Lucia—this difference has only enriched his time at Notre Dame. Leveraging his God-given talent for time management, Carlos also participates in a number of vocal music groups and service organizations. Carlos’ dedication to family, studies, and faith has borne well-earned fruit in his own life, but he was recently humbled to realize the impact of his example on those around him. He shared this story with us:
“I have always believed that God puts us through difficult times to remind us of his devotion and love. It was during my study abroad experience in Puebla, Mexico, that I was given a beautiful reminder of God’s presence in my life.
My friend Ethan and I met during this period. We bonded over life goals and common struggles, and he often asked about my experience being married (he was contemplating proposing to his girlfriend of five years). As we grew closer, I invited him to join me, my wife, and another friend of ours for Mass. He was not Catholic, but he agreed and continued to join us for the rest of the semester. Afterward, we would all gather for dinner and talk about that week’s homily or readings. This time together each week truly strengthened our friendship.
Close to the end of the semester, Ethan asked me about the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) process at Notre Dame. My wife went through this process our freshman year, so I was very excited to shower him with information. But what he said next was something that has stayed in my heart to this day. He told me he had attended Catholic schools his whole life but had never been fully convinced to join the faith. He said that the witness of my marriage and our new friendship revealed to him what a love centered around Jesus Christ can create. Tears immediately filled my eyes. In that moment, I realized God had used a time of struggle and hardship to do something great. Today, weeks away from Easter, I am proud to serve as his Sponsor in the OCIA process. I cannot wait to see him washed in the saving waters and sealed as Christ’s own forever. Now, our friendship has the ability to last even into eternity.
You always hear about the relationships that come out of one’s time at Notre Dame, but ours is unlike anything I would have expected. Ethan is more than just my friend. He is my brother in Christ. He is my brother in this Notre Dame Family. I love him dearly as if I have known him my whole life, and I know that this will only grow. I am awed and inspired by his dedication to discerning the faith, and I look forward to supporting him every step of the way as we continue the journey to eternal salvation.”
Thank you, Carlos and Ethan, for sharing this story. We are grateful that you are part of the Notre Dame family.