Olivia Samper, a 2011 graduate of Trinity Catholic School, embodies the very essence of our mission: to cultivate students who grow in Christian maturity, integrity, and knowledge.

Her journey, while initially appearing conventional – graduating from St. John Paul II High School and earning degrees in Elementary Education from Florida State University – reveals a profound spiritual transformation.

Initially drawn to communications and acting, Olivia felt a yearning for deeper fulfillment. Observing the joy and purpose in the lives of fellow students involved in the FSU Catholic Student Union, she tentatively joined, with tepid expectations. Instead, she encountered a community of faith and experienced a profound conversion. Daily Mass and Eucharistic Adoration became central to her life, leading to a renewed sense of purpose.

Reflecting on this period, Olivia aptly describes it as a time of "wise foolishness," a period of deep questioning and self-discovery. During this time, she surrendered her career aspirations to God, and the word "teacher" resonated deeply within her. This led her to shift her academic focus to education. Olivia started attending daily Mass and praying regularly with the Eucharist at Blessed Sacrament’s Adoration Chapel. This led to a full conversion, giving her heart to Jesus. In looking back, she can see that all God required was for her to be open. All she had to do was show up and God would lead the way.

Olivia's journey was not without its challenges. During this time, Olivia encountered many “angels” along the way that influenced her path, including developing relationships with missionaries of Saint Paul’s Outreach. While drawn to missionary work, she initially doubted her own worthiness. During a particularly difficult Lenten season, Olivia prayed to the Eucharist for some comforting consolation for her malaise. Once again, God placed a word on Olivia’s heart…the word, “Mission.” God was narrowing her focus, and she listened. She recognized her calling to serve others as a missionary by virtue of her Baptism, and this would start with serving full-time for Saint Paul's Outreach (SPO).

SPO's emphasis on "deep relationships – with Him and with one another" resonated deeply with Olivia. Living in community and serving others helped her grow in Christian maturity, mirroring the values instilled in her at Trinity. She attributes her strong foundation in faith to her years at Trinity, particularly the consistent exposure to the Sacraments, the impact of teachers like Mrs. Outland teaching her to pray the Rosary, and the emphasis on faith formation in Mrs. McCarron's Religion classes that made the faith real in a way that was safe to question and explore.

Olivia's visit to Trinity this January had a profound impact on our middle school students. She shared powerful insights, reminding them:

• Boundless Love: "God's love is constant, even in our imperfect lives."

• God's Plan: "God is always at work in our lives, even when we may not see it."

• Living Out Faith: "Integrity is key. How can I live out my faith in all aspects of my life?"

• Gratitude: "Always be grateful for the blessings in your life."

Olivia Samper exemplifies the transformative power of a Trinity Catholic School education. Her life is a testament to the enduring impact of faith, community, and the pursuit of a life dedicated to serving others.

To support Olivia and her work with SPO, go to: https://www.spo.org/support-olivia-samper