The announcement of the first-year exams sent a ripple of nervous energy through the church. Sisters-in-training scurried to their classes, clutched their books tighter, and whispered anxiously about their preparedness. Maria, however, felt an overwhelming wave of panic. She sat in the library staring at her syllabus, which seemed endless. Her thoughts were muddled with regret.
"Fifteen days," Maria muttered under her breath, flipping through her notes. "How am I supposed to revise everything in just fifteen days?"
---
A Study Pact
Maria found Catherine in the cafeteria later that afternoon. Catherine was hunched over her notebook, highlighting important points with intense focus. Maria slid into the seat across from her.
Maria:
"Catherine, I'm losing my mind over these exams. I've barely covered half of the syllabus. How are you managing this?"
Catherine looked up, her expression calm but sympathetic.
Catherine:
"It's tough for all of us, Maria, but you've got to focus. It's not too late. We can study together, like we did during orientation week. Remember how much we accomplished then?"
Maria:
"You're right. Let's study together. My room tonight, and tomorrow we'll switch to yours. Deal?"
Catherine smiled and nodded.
Catherine:
"Deal. We'll get through this, I promise."
---
Late-Night Study Sessions
That evening, Maria's small room was transformed into a study haven. The desk was cluttered with books, notes, and highlighters. A steaming pot of tea sat between Maria and Catherine as they poured over their theology notes.
Catherine:
"Okay, let's go over the early councils. What were the main outcomes of the Council of Nicaea?"
Maria hesitated, trying to recall.
Maria:
"Um... It was about defining the relationship between Jesus and God, right? The Nicene Creed was established?"
Catherine nodded, jotting down notes as Maria spoke.
Catherine:
"Exactly. And it also rejected Arianism, which denied the divinity of Christ. You're getting there, Maria."
They continued late into the night, alternating between reading aloud, quizzing each other, and summarizing chapters.
---
The Debate Announcement
A week into their study sessions, an announcement was made after morning prayers. The annual interclass debate competition was to take place in two days, and Maria's name was on the list of participants. Her topic was Vows and Religious Faith, and her opponent was Tania, a second-year student from Mumbai.
Maria felt a jolt of nerves. She approached Sister Veronica, who was organizing the event, hoping to back out.
Maria:
"Sister Veronica, I'm honored to be selected, but I don't think I can participate this year. I'm struggling to prepare for my exams."
Sister Veronica shook her head, her tone firm but encouraging.
Sister Veronica:
"Maria, this is not just about exams. Debating is a skill that strengthens your understanding and confidence. You've been chosen because we believe in you. Use this opportunity to deepen your faith and your knowledge."
Maria sighed but nodded. She couldn't let Sister Veronica down.
---
Preparing for the Debate
Maria spent the next two days juggling her studies and debate preparation. Catherine helped her draft points for her argument.
Catherine:
"Start by defining vows—what they mean and their importance in religious faith. Then contrast it with how faith isn't just about words but actions."
Maria nodded, scribbling notes as Catherine spoke.
Maria:
"And I can bring in examples from different traditions to show how vows are interpreted differently."
Catherine:
"Exactly. Just stay calm and stick to your points. You'll do great."
---
The Debate
The debate hall was packed. Students from all years filled the seats, and the air buzzed with anticipation. Maria stood at the podium, her hands slightly trembling as she glanced at her opponent, Tania, who exuded confidence.
The moderator, Sister Jennifer, introduced the topic and the participants.
Sister Jennifer:
"Today's debate topic is Vows and Religious Faith. Maria and Tania, you each have five minutes to present your arguments, followed by a rebuttal session. Let's begin with Tania."
Tania stepped forward, her posture poised.
Tania:
"Vows are the cornerstone of religious faith. They signify commitment and devotion. Whether it's a baptismal vow, a marriage vow, or the vows taken by nuns and priests, these are sacred promises made to God and the community. To uphold them is to uphold the integrity of one's faith."
Her arguments were clear and well-structured, leaving the audience nodding in agreement. Maria's heart raced as her turn approached.
She took a deep breath and stepped forward.
Maria:
"While vows are indeed significant, they are not the essence of faith. Faith is a personal connection with the Divine, expressed through actions, love, and service. A vow without understanding or sincerity is just an empty promise. True faith transcends words; it is reflected in how we live our lives every day."
Her voice gained confidence as she continued, drawing examples from the teachings she had learned both in church and through Ayesha.
---
The Rebuttal
During the rebuttal session, Tania challenged Maria's points.
Tania:
"Maria, if vows are not essential, how do you explain the importance given to them in religious ceremonies? They are foundational to many practices."
Maria replied calmly, her confidence growing.
Maria:
"Vows are important, but they are a means, not an end. They guide us, but what truly matters is living by the principles they represent. A person who acts with love and integrity fulfills the spirit of their faith, with or without formal vows."
The audience murmured in appreciation of Maria's thoughtful response.
---
Reflection
After the debate, Maria and Tania shook hands.
Tania:
"You did well, Maria. I didn't expect such a strong argument from a first-year."
Maria:
"Thank you, Tania. It was a great learning experience."
That night, Maria shared the day's events with Ayesha.
Maria:
"The debate was intense, but it made me realize how much I've learned in the past few weeks. Thank you for guiding me, Ayesha."
Ayesha:
"You're growing in knowledge and understanding, Maria. Keep asking questions and seeking the truth. You're on a beautiful journey."
As Maria lay down to sleep, she felt a sense of accomplishment. Despite the challenges, she was finding her voice and deepening her understanding of faith.