Finding Faith - with CMA support.

By Marine Ian Macey

For a long time, I felt a quiet tug in my heart—something drawing me closer to faith, to tradition, and to something greater than myself. That quiet call eventually led me to the Catholic Church. What started as curiosity slowly deepened into a longing to truly belong.

It began with a chance encounter with a CMA member at a unit range practice. He had questioned me on noticing my scripture inspired tactical patch, and so began a conversation on faith. As providence would have it, the CMA member was also a catechist. I first began attending Mass at St Thomas of Canterbury in Arbroath with him as he guided me through the teachings of the Church and the structure of the Mass. Through this I started to find both peace and purpose in the new learning and community that I had been invited into. It was there, under the guidance of Father Andrew Marshall, that my understanding of the Church began to grow. He created a space where I could ask questions, reflect deeply, and feel truly welcomed.

The journey through RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) took about a year, and it was during this time that I was fortunate enough to be mentored by my CMA Catechist He was more than just a guide—he was a steady presence, someone who answered my questions with a deep understanding of the faith and encouraged me to constantly explore what it truly means to be Catholic. Through his friendship and witness, I saw what it means to live a life shaped by faith.

Each week, through the RCIA sessions, I learned more about Catholic teachings, Scripture, the saints, and the sacraments. I came to understand that this wasn’t just about learning facts—it was about transformation. About coming home.

Marine Ian Macey, supported by the CMA through RCIA, and his Sponsor James Henderson Clark veteran of Queens own Highlanders.

A significant part of my journey was also shaped by the Catholic Military Association. As someone connected to military life, finding a faith community that understood both the spiritual and practical aspects of that experience was a great comfort. The CMA provided fellowship, encouragement, and spiritual resources that helped ground me during times of uncertainty. It was through my weekly meetings and study at St Thomas’ that I met Jim, an army veteran and now new member of the CMA, who would go on to become my sponsor for both my baptism and confirmation. Jim’s steady support and quiet strength were exactly what I needed during that pivotal time. He walked with me through the final steps of preparation, offering wisdom and prayerful encouragement at every stage.

On the day of my baptism, standing at the font surrounded by community with Jim and my Catechist ever present, I felt the weight of grace settle gently on my shoulders. It wasn’t just a symbolic moment—it was a true beginning. A rebirth.

Now, as a newly baptized Catholic, I know this is only the start of my journey. Faith is not a finish line—it’s a path we walk each day. And thanks to the support of my CMA catechist, the teaching of Father Andrew, the fellowship of the Catholic Military Association, and the guidance of my sponsor Jim, I begin that path with gratitude, hope, and a heart full of peace.

Marine Macey is only one of a number of CMA Members who have been Baptised or Received into the Church this Easter. Please keep them all in your prayers.