Junior Retreat, A Spiritual Experience (by Maeve Kiley '22)

Maeve Kiley '22
Spring is the season of new beginnings and a closure of old ways (sadly snow is not in that closure category), and there is no better way to demonstrate that ideal than the Junior Retreat, which recently had its last visit at the LaSalle Manor for this year.
Since a senior year is approaching faster than a bullet train for us juniors, the SFHS student board decided that a break from all the research papers and physics tests, spending two days out in the wilderness with our classmates, bonding in our shared faith, and learning about each other would be a valuable experience. After anonymously interviewing Juniors, the pros and cons of the retreat were laid out clearly. Each person interviewed went on a different retreat date than the other. Let’s see how this year’s juniors enjoyed the retreat!

After asking each of the three juniors if they enjoyed the retreat, two responded with an immediate ‘yes’ while the other gave an ‘it was a meh’ experience. After asking what their favorite part of the retreat was, many different answers came in, but the most common theme was the time spent with their fellow classmates and learning more about them. Students were able to see one another in a less academic light and more in a personal one. People learned about one another’s pasts, emotions, doubts, worries, and concerns, which helped people grow closer together and form new friendships. 

When asking what their least favorite part of the retreat was, two students replied ‘the food,’ while the third replied a specific activity, which is expected. Because of COVID, people have been shut up in their houses for so long that the team building exercises may have seemed a little awkward, and the food wasn’t what they were used to. The pandemic did put a bit of wrench in the retreat with one Junior saying that they “Wished the retreat was longer” which is sadly impossible due to the COVID restrictions and bans placed by the Illinois governor.

On a more positive note, every student interviewed unanimously agreed that his or her spiritual life had improved over the two-day retreat. Overall, the 2020/2021 Junior Retreat went well for many students and was even a profound faith moment in people’s lives. No matter where you came from or where you will end up, the SFHS community is welcoming to all types of students, and the retreats over the years have been staples of acceptance and comradery between students. They have helped faculty, staff, students, and anyone else involved feel closer to one another and God.

    • Photo: LaSalle Manor Retreat Center in Plano, IL (LaSalle Manor website)

St. Francis High School

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