When I was asked what subject in school reminds me of my faith, I really had to think about it. I considered science and how it helped explain some of the wonders of God, but I finally figured out that social studies reminded me the most of my faith.

All throughout history, civilizations have strived to understand God and His ways. Many early civilizations, such as the Greeks, the Egyptians and the Scan-dinavian countries, made up myths to try to explain the mysteries of the world. All of them believed in one supreme be-ing in the hierarchy of the gods. Studying these civilizations and their myths regarding their gods reminded me of stories in the Bible, like the seven days of creation and the parables.

The persecution of the Jews in ancient Israel showed me how much people loved and cared about their God. I look up to those people who are willing to give their lives for their God.

Christians were also persecuted in the Roman Empire for worshiping the God they believed in. Despite being persecuted, the early Christian faithful continued to spread the word of Jesus throughout the world. These early Christians have taught me to be courageous and stand up for my beliefs — not just in Church, but also in my every- day life.

Not only did ancient history remind me of my faith, but events in recent times have also done so. A figure in recent history whom we have studied and who reminds me of my faith is Pope John Paul II. He grew up and became a Catholic priest in communist Poland.

During his many years serving the persecuted Catholics of his country, he continued to serve his God and his people with bravery and courage in the face of danger. During his 25 years of being pope, he has faced many crises, one of them being an attempt on his life by an assassin. Not only did he not stop serving his people fearing for his own safety, he also forgave the man who tried to take his life.

Pope John Paul II reminds me on a daily basis of my faith, love of God and love of family.