Soph Retreat Centered Around Relationships

Olivia Vanden Elzen, Staff Writers, Journalism I

 NDA’s 208 sophomores made the trek to Camp Tekawitha for a class retreat on October 4th and 5th. 

First put into place in the fall of 2012, the sophomore retreat is designed to help students understand new responsibilities that comes with the year of the renowned driver’s license and independence.  

“The goal of the sophomore retreat is to tackle moral issues that are relevant and engaging such as community, character and faith,” said Campus Minister Daniel Kriegl, who organizes and leads the retreat.

The sophomore class split in half and the day each student attended depended on which theology teacher they have (Mr. Phil Kuenzi, Thursday; Mrs. Katie Stanczak, Friday).

Along with the 10th grade class, a number of juniors and seniors volunteered to be leaders and give guidance to their own small group of 8-9 underclassmen of their same gender.

After arriving at camp, the small groups broke out to discuss real-life high school scenarios and relationship advice.

“I liked the small group discussions because I got to know and build community with my schoolmates that I don’t usually get to talk to, and I had the opportunity to offer my advice since I have already been in their shoes,” explained Kayla Hawley, NDA senior.

The retreat also included a large group Q&A on relationships, an integrity talk, and perhaps the most favorite of all the activities: an “open mic-style” prayer service.

“I really enjoyed the prayer service in the chapel because it made me realize what others are going through and why they may be acting the way they are,” said sophomore Tim Turek.

Finally, the students loaded the buses and returned back to school.

“It was a great experience because I feel like I got to know my classmates a lot better, and it truly felt like we were a family,” said sophomore Sonja Gapinski.