Freshmen in other classes did not get to take part in a formal retreat designed for them.  However, this year they did. On August 19, approximately 170 members of the Class of 2028 joined together for this occasion.

In the past freshman went to the Basilica as a large group, but this year, the Campus Ministry Office made the change to add a retreat designed especially for the newest Patriots.

Religion teacher Katie Smith was responsible for organizing the event.

Ms. Smith said, “It was adding something into our retreat schedule. Until this year, every class had a retreat experience except the freshmen. The Campus Ministry office wanted to ensure that every grade has a retreat and a class trip.”

The evening did have activities including warmers, a scavenger hunt across campus, a talk led by a faculty member, small group discussions and prayer.

The warmers helped the freshmen get to know each other in their groups and as they moved to different stations, they could be more open and connected with their classmates.

Freshman Brody Miller said, “I loved getting to know more about my classmates before the school year officially started. I loved all the activities that they had set up for us.”

Brody mentioned that his favorite activity was the scavenger hunt.

Ms. Smith led her own small group of students. She said her favorite part was competing in the scavenger hunt and getting to know the students in her group. “I think this really helped set the tone for this school year and to help students get to know their peers and some faculty members.”

In the past, freshman retreat used to be a part of the orientation process before school started.

As Freshman Orientation grew, a freshman retreat got lost in the process. Although Mass was not a part of the retreat, it could be in the future. The Campus Ministry Office wants it to be.