The annual Year 11 (Senior) Retreat has always proven to be a faith-forming experience for our senior students, and this year was no different. Arriving at the College at 8:00am for the early morning bus ride to Port Hacking, the students were greeted with breathtaking views of the Royal National Park and a wonderful venue for the next three days. The group started with prayer and the set up of the sacred space...
Day one was also a great opportunity for the students to know each other better. A number of ice-breaker activities were held, as well as group activities that allowed everyone to explore relationships with themselves and the people who have affected them in their life so far.
The Trivia Night ended a wonderful first day of retreat. There were questions that tested everyone's knowledge, as well as challenges that probably needed a bit more practice...
The retreat provided a chance for our senior students to take a moment to reflect on their high school lives so far, and to aspire on what they wanted to achieve over the coming months in the lead up to the HSC...
The moment of reconciliation for Year 11 was very powerful. To move forward, one must learn to forgive; and let go of feelings of anger and resentment. Relationship builds and broken ones are restored through the power of forgiveness...
Our students came together on the evening of Day 2 at Deer Park, where a liturgy was held to celebrate the commencement of their final senior year.
The final day of retreat glistened with the perfect sunrise. Some of our students woke up early enough to witness the dawn of a new day...
The final day allowed our students to read affirmations that were written to them by other students and even by a number of their teachers. It assured each of them of their aspiring values, and that there were people there to help guide them through their senior school journey ahead...
It can be rightfully concluded that this year's Senior Retreat was one of the most inspirational. It helped build better relationships with one's self, family and friends, and of course, with God. While this marked the end of the retreat, it now opens a new chapter, for Year 12 2020.