Today was a moment of deep faith and celebration at De La Salle Collegiate, as freshman Michael Chris Daher publicly made his Profession of Faith and was received into the Roman Catholic Church.

The Mass was presided over by Fr. Joe Gembala, chaplain of De La Salle Collegiate and pastor of St. Malachy Parish, making the moment especially meaningful within the life of the school.

For Chris, this step was the natural expression of a faith he has long felt called to embrace. “I have always felt welcomed in the Catholic Church,” he shared. “I believe that Jesus is true God and true Man who died for me and rose from the dead. I put my hope and trust in Him and rely on His forgiveness.” His words reflect both conviction and gratitude, underscoring a faith rooted in trust, mercy, and hope.

Chris currently worships at St. Clare of Montefalco, where Fr. Andrew Kowalczyk, CSMA, serves as his pastor. Chris spoke warmly of Fr. Andrew’s guidance and care, particularly during a unique and challenging period when Chris spent two months in China and was unable to attend Mass in person. “I called Fr. Andrew, and he supported me long distance with spiritual comfort and prayer,” Chris said—an example of how pastoral support and faith transcend borders.

At De La Salle Collegiate, Chris has found a community that nurtures both faith and character. “I appreciate the support of my fellow students,” he explained. “De La Salle Brotherhood makes me feel welcome and helps me be virtuous—and it is fun.” His experience reflects the school’s Lasallian mission: forming young men in faith, service, and community.

Chris’s Profession of Faith is a powerful reminder of the role De La Salle plays in accompanying students on their spiritual journeys. Today, the De La Salle community celebrates Chris’s commitment to the Catholic faith and rejoices with him as he continues to grow as a young man of faith, integrity, and brotherhood.

Michael 'Chris' Daher with his family and DLS Chaplain Fr. Joe Gembala.