Ariana Sanchez - Finding Faith and Fellowship

On Graduation Sunday, we had the joy of hearing from Ariana Sanchez, a graduating senior in Kinesiology from Oswego, Illinois. Her story is one of rediscovery—a journey that began with uncertainty and ended with a deep and vibrant connection to faith, community, and calling.

Ariana shared how, when she first arrived on campus, she had quietly stepped away from faith. “I had decided to leave faith altogether,” she confessed. But something stirred in her during the spring of her freshman year. A gentle nudge. A walk past pride flags and an open door. That walk led her into the Etc. Coffeehouse… and into a place that felt like home.

“I knew at that moment Wesley was different. I was met with an acceptance and love that was refreshing and life-giving. I knew I wanted to be part of it.”

Over the next four years, Ariana became a pillar of the Wesley community—leading Midweek Worship, running slides, hosting fireside fellowship, and offering a steady, joyful presence that many of us came to count on. Her faith was not simply rekindled; it blossomed.

Without Wesley, I wouldn’t have the relationship with Christ that I do now. I’ve met some of the most incredible people here—people who build me up and challenge me to grow every single day.

Ariana Sanchez speak at Graduation Sunday, May 4, 2025

As she looks ahead, Ariana hopes to work in athletic training—ideally with a college or professional soccer team, specializing in concussion care. But she also carries deep hopes for Wesley: that more students will find in it the same refuge and renewal that she did.

Ariana, thank you for your courage, your leadership, your laughter, and your s’mores. Your story has already inspired so many—and we know it’s only just beginning.