On September 23, our school hosted its Damascus retreat.

The Damascus retreat, open to seventh graders and led by upperclassmen, allowed new students to form relationships and make memories. While a spiritual retreat, the retreatants also played games.

Upon arrival, retreat leaders led the groups in games on the front field, including ships and sailors and sharks and minnows. Following the games, retreatants were split into small groups led by the upperclassmen and held in small-group locations.

A unique aspect of the Damascus retreat was the “trust walk.” On the way to their small group locations, retreatants were blindfolded and guided by their leaders around campus.

The seventh graders were encouraged not to talk and instead to rely on their peers and leaders to guide them. The walk built trust between the small-group members and served as an icebreaker before group discussions.

In small groups, the retreatants made spiritual maps of the high and low points in their lives and discussed their spiritual journeys. They also learned about the significance of the Damascus story from moderator Erin Paul.

Retreatants enjoyed Moe’s burritos for dinner, were led in meditation by moderator Sarah Conn, and explored the campus in a school values scavenger hunt.

Retreat leader Erin Davis reflected on the importance of the retreat. “It’s a good way for seventh graders to get an introduction to Marist . . . The activities showcase different sides of the community that you don’t see during orientation or in passing. It’s an in-depth look at Marist life,” Davis said.

To end the day, families joined retreatants for Mass, and small group members received blessed retreat pins.

At our school, each grade level enjoys the chance to attend a retreat designed for their particular needs in mind. For the seventh graders, the newest students on campus, this retreat fit the bill.

The Damascus retreat provided leaders, students, and their families an introduction to Marist life and an opportunity to make connections.