Many of the groups were comprised of FOCUS Bible Studies or students who live together in the dorms or apartments. There was discussion, silent prayer, Scripture, and the application of the theme “Relationship, Identity, Mission” to daily life.
Kelsey McCullough, FOCUS Team Director at St. Al’s, said the mini retreats were an opportunity to take time in an average day to encounter Christ and each other: "The retreat allowed space for deep conversation, reflection and prayer. Each retreat I helped lead was different, with different conversations and people. It was nice to spend time with people you usually only have an hour or so to talk to in a Bible Study and be with them in a way we haven’t been able to this year!”
“It's very encouraging to walk with peers who are navigating the same obstacles and can share advice on how they grow closer to God! We all got to laugh and be somber and be reminded how connected we are to one another. Mini-Retreats brought us into that teaching and community in a special way and I am very thankful for the opportunity!”
Cora Jarman
“My understanding of the sacraments was enriched. The retreat was a great opportunity to stop, reflect, and learn something new even if for only three hours.”
Kendra Lachcik
“The smaller group of people allowed for more in-depth discussion. The retreat tools I learned helped to guide me with my future endeavors.”
Stephanie Arndt
“The mini-retreat offered me the opportunity to break away from the normal, hectic academic routine and spend quality time with friends who are building a stronger relationship with God. It was really great to spend time in a prayerful devotional and allowed me to think about how I could incorporate that into my own daily walk with God.”
Michael Sutor