Students participate in the Manresa retreat in Vermont.
Faith, Family and Friendship in a Fun, loving atmosphere
Emily Mackell
Issue date: 4/2/04 Section: News
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The weekend began with 'ice breakers' on Friday night. These games helped the group get to know each other by name. One such game required students not only to memorize each other's name and class but also their first pet's name.
After the students spent some time getting to know each other, they turned their attention to talks given by some of the retreat leaders. There were two leaders assigned to each group, and the groups consisted of five to six students. Each leader spoke on a different topic to the large group at some point during the course of the retreat. These topics included faith, family and friendship.
After each talk, the small groups gathered to discuss what each leader spoke about and how it related to each of them individually. The student leaders' talks provided opportunities for reflection on identity, relationships and spirituality.
Everything said within the groups was confidential. Trust was central to the retreat. Students were moved to say things at different levels. Some students opened up to their groups extensively while others listened.
Rebecca Murphy '06 said, "It was wonderful to be able to share with my peers on so many different topics. The student-led talks affected everyone in one way or another and encouraged many to share their reactions and personal stories."
Corrou led the retreat in nightly prayer as well as prayer before meals. Different topics were brought up in prayer throughout the weekend. One such focus was on finding God through falling in love with something or someone. Song was also an important component of Manresa.
On Saturday evening, the students were given the opportunity to share their prayers with the large group. This was followed by outdoor candlelight prayer and song. The students offered each other the sign of peace and shared hugs that demonstrated the friendships that had grown since Friday.
The weekend also consisted of plenty of free time during which students could socialize by playing frisbee outside or going for walks. Students bonded over meals and games of Pictionary and Twister, as well as dancing and ice cream on Saturday night.
The weekend focused on different aspects of spirituality and allowed for much reflection. These small group discussions furthered a strong bond among participants. Ryan Graf '06 said, "Manresa was a great break from college life. I was able to bond with others as well as learn about myself spiritually."
The Manresa Retreat is among the most popular retreats offered by the College. It is an opportunity that is open to any Holy Cross student and is offered three times a year.
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