In a world where spirituality often takes a backseat to the hustle and bustle of daily life, Cortney Smith’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the impact of a nurturing educational environment. From a childhood filled with spiritual longing to a fulfilling career as elementary principal at St. Patrick's Catholic School in Portland, Michigan, Cortney's story is one of discovery, perseverance, and the unwavering guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Cortney's upbringing was rooted in a family that valued spirituality but hadn't found a home in any particular denomination. Regular church attendance and exposure to Christian teachings shaped her early years, yet she couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing. Despite her active participation in the Protestant traditions, Cortney felt a void that only grew over time.
It was during her high school years that Cortney's desire to explore Catholicism grew stronger. Attending Mass with friends, she felt a sense of completeness in the Catholic Church's reverence, rituals, and teachings. However, it wasn't until her senior year of college that she made the decision to pursue baptism and fully commit to Catholicism. Cortney felt drawn to the Catholic faith, recognizing it as the missing piece she had been longing for.
However, Cortney's journey to Catholicism wasn't without its challenges. Family dynamics, including her parents' divorce and initial disapproval of her decision to convert, added layers of complexity to her faith journey.
After years of contemplation and soul-searching, Cortney made the decision to pursue baptism and join the Catholic Church. Her journey led her to Our Lady of the Lakes Parish in Waterford, where she took the first steps towards embracing her newfound faith. Casting aside initial hesitations and doubts, Cortney's commitment to Catholicism only grew stronger with time.
She embarked on a journey of self-discovery and faith formation. Through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) and the support of her now husband and sponsors, Cortney embraced her newfound faith with courage and conviction.
One pivotal moment in Cortney's journey was her decision to enroll her children at St. Patrick's Catholic School. Guided by a deep-seated desire to provide her children with a nurturing environment rooted in faith, Cortney took the leap of faith and later became a teacher and then principal at the very school her children attend.
At St. Patrick, Cortney found a community that embraced her and her family with open arms. The school became more than just a place of learning; it became a second home where faith flourished, and relationships blossomed. Through her role as both a teacher and a parent, Cortney witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Catholic education.
Today, Cortney's faith journey continues to evolve as she navigates the joys and challenges of life. From Holy Communion preparation with her son Henry to witnessing her children evangelize their peers, Cortney finds fulfillment in living out her faith each day. Her journey serves as a reminder that faith is not a destination but a lifelong journey of growth, discovery, and transformation.
Cortney remains grateful for the gift of faith and the opportunity to share it with others as she walks alongside her children and students. She states, “I would not be anywhere in education except at Catholic schools. I have to be able to live my faith daily and fully.” Her story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the profound impact of a nurturing educational environment rooted in Catholic tradition.