As the 2024-25 school year just began, many exciting events are starting, including the very first senior retreat. September brings fall weather, pumpkin spice and the overall perfect time to reconnect with faith.
This year’s senior class is beginning the new month, with a new environment to worship God, as well as a brand new addition to the Crusader family, Ms. Morgan Hanson. She’s taking her first steps as part of Campus Ministry attending the first senior retreat.
“I am really excited to get to know all of the students and also be able to watch all the peer ministers who are leading grow in their leadership skills, at the Kings house,” Ms. Hanson said.
Unlike last year where the senior retreat was held at La Salle in Wildwood, this year they changed the scenery to the Kings House located in Belleville, Illinois. Over the school year, each senior at St. Dominic will be fortunate to attend a retreat focusing on spiritual growth, faith formation and sacramental graces.
“As these seniors get ready to leave St. Dominic, I really want them to have time to grow in relationship with one another and also grow in relation with the Lord before they leave this community,” Vice President for Mission and Identity Fr. Patrick said.
The next nine months may seem extremely long for many seniors, but this is the last chance for the class of 2025 to connect in faith and in friendship before they head off to do bigger and better things. Even though senior retreat is only two days long it is still important to keep an open mind and let God determine those days.
“I’m looking forward to getting one last chance to get closer with my classmates before the year is over, and also being able to give those two days to God,” senior Bella Gerberding said.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths.” During this retreat season trust in the Lord and allow him to guide each one of these seniors through the school year and remember to allow some grace period to enjoy God’s presence and the weather.
Even though the school year just began, many amazing things are starting for everyone. As this first group of seniors head out on their two day retreat, keep them in prayer to allow them to open their hearts and minds to God.
