Natalia excited for a new chapter of her life!
My name is Natalia Moraleda, and I am from Berlin, NJ. I am a CKRS alumna, having attended Christ the King Regional School since PreK3, and I have been a parishioner at Christ the King for almost my entire life. CKRS and CTK have been important influences in shaping my faith. This fall, I will be attending North Carolina State University, where I plan to major in Biomedical Engineering. I’m excited to begin this next chapter while carrying with me everything I have learned through my family, school, and parish community.
A few fun facts about me: I am Filipina-American, I play four instruments (flute, piccolo, piano, and guitar) and sing, I’m an avid runner and mountain biker, I love baking, theater and jazz music, and I enjoy combining my creativity with science, math, and engineering.
One of the greatest blessings in my life has been serving in our parish music ministry. I first began playing flute at Sunday Mass in sixth grade and later became a cantor. Standing in the choir loft each week has taught me that some of the most meaningful acts of service happen quietly. Music has strengthened my relationship with God by reminding me that worship is about bringing people together in prayer and creating a sense of peace and community. It has also brought me closer to my younger sister, Cami, who plays her violin beside me.
Throughout high school at Merion Mercy Academy, I learned that challenges are opportunities for growth. As an Academic Merit and Music Scholar, I balanced rigorous academics, extracurricular activities, and long commutes to school while discovering the importance of perseverance, organization, and trust. Science, especially biology, inspired me to pursue biomedical engineering because I hope to design technologies that improve healthcare access and people’s lives.
Prayer has been an important source of strength throughout my high school years. One verse that continually inspires me is Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” It reminds me that every opportunity, whether I’m studying, performing music, or serving others, is ultimately a chance to glorify God.
As I prepare for college, I hope to continue serving through music, my parish community, and future opportunities wherever I am. To the younger members of our parish, I would simply say: Don’t be afraid to share your talents. Whether it’s music, service, academics, or something completely different, God can use your gifts to make a difference in someone else’s life, often in ways you may never realize.
Natalia Morelada is a parishioner.