Junior Retreat
     You must get rid of all these things: anger, passion, and hateful feelings. No insults or obscene talk must ever come from your lips. Do not lie to one another, for you have put off the old self with its habits and have put on the new self. This is the new being which God, its Creator, is constantly renewing in his own image, in order to bring you to a full knowledge of himself. As a result, there is no longer any distinction between (us).
     This Bible verse from the packet filled out at junior retreat exemplifies the days’ goal: developing character and community. In a diverse junior class these things have become a necessity and the days’ events for the junior retreat of 2005 were a reflection of this. Activities consisted of filling out the packet and listening to the speaker, Scott G. Fouts of Boys Town, football/tetherball/volleyball during break times, and mass presided by Fr. Dan at the end.
     The usual casserole lunch was replaced by Valentino’s pizza as a donation from some junior mothers. The traditional donuts and juice were consumed as well.
     “Getting out of school and having some good food is always good (for the kids),” said Sister Carolyn, who helps out with most of the retreats.
      The three main goals in the packet that made up the bulk of the retreat were Character Within, Character Among Us, and Character in Action. Breaking down these different uses of character was directed at showing the students how to build up their community. Article and Photos by Phil Ervin