Ever since I could remember, my faith and religion have been an integral part of my life. My religion provides me with a moral compass, through which I judge the ethics of an action or behavior. Coming from a religious family, Pentecostalism has always been a cornerstone of my relationship with my relatives. The Pentecostal Church forms an extended family, where I derive further affection, support and kinship. Finally, it is my religious beliefs that have led me to social work, a profession that I view as my calling.
             I have been an active member of the Pentecostal Church since birth, a fact that sometimes surprises people who assume that I am Catholic, due to my Puerto Rican heritage. However, I find that there are a lot of similarities between these religious traditions. For example, both Catholicism and Pentecostalism place a strong premium on the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Like most other Christian denominations, I grew up believing in Biblical Doctrine, and in the acceptance of Jesus Christ as the true personal salvation. Pentecostals believe in the existence of the soul, and in a continuing life after the body's death. Furthermore, my Pentecostal faith has taught me to repent and to renounce sin, and to trust in Jesus Christ in order to attain salvation.
             These similar traditions are important for me, because they gave me common ground with other children from different Christian traditions. Even when I interacted with children from a different religion, it was fairly easy for me to relate to their beliefs, and to relate my own faith to them. My familiarity with Bible stories provided further opportunities to relate to my peers and to make friends.
             There were also beliefs and practices that were unique to Pentecostalism that provided a strong impact on my life. Unlike other Christian denominations, Pentecostals place a strong premium on a relationship with God, through the Holy Spirit. Going to church has t...