By Lauren Zulick ‘25
From October 3rd to October 4th, the class of 2026 attended the annual junior retreat, a beloved tradition that provides students an opportunity to step away from their everyday routines and engage in meaningful reflection and connection.
This year’s retreat was carefully designed to promote personal growth, spirituality and community among the students. Over the course of two days, participants immersed themselves in activities that encouraged self-discovery and strengthened their bonds with one another.
The retreat commenced with small group sessions led by junior leaders and chaperones, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. As they engaged in discussions about their aspirations, fears and the challenges of junior year, they realized they were not alone in their struggles. This shared vulnerability set the tone for the entire retreat, encouraging open communication and deep connections among peers.
Following the small group sessions, Sarah, a friend of Mrs. Briones, took the stage as the first speaker. Her talk was both inspiring and relatable, focusing on themes of resilience and personal growth. With her engaging storytelling and heartfelt anecdotes, Sarah captivated the audience, prompting them to reflect on their own lives and journeys. She emphasized the importance of embracing one’s true self and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
After Sarah’s uplifting presentation, the atmosphere shifted to a more contemplative mode as students participated in a confession service. This sacred time allowed individuals to reflect on their lives, acknowledge their mistakes and seek forgiveness. This pivotal moment encouraged them to let go of past burdens and look forward with hope and determination.
“Confession felt really freeing. I didn’t know how much I needed to let go of those things until I did,” Maya Stewart, Ursuline junior, said.
The retreat then shifted gears to recreation time, where students could relax and enjoy some fun filled activities.
Following recreation, the group gathered for Mass. The liturgy was filled with uplifting music and meaningful prayers, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose.
As they reflected on their faith and the messages conveyed during the retreat, students felt a renewed sense of community and connection. After Mass, Sarah returned to share additional insights, reinforcing the themes of resilience and authenticity that she had introduced earlier.
The day concluded with adoration, a serene moment of quiet reflection and prayer. In this sacred space, students were encouraged to meditate and connect with their faith on a deeper level. The feeling was peaceful, allowing for reflection and a personal connection to spirituality. As students sat in silence, many found strength in their reflections, centering around a day filled with great experiences and insights.
“I’m leaving feeling more hopeful and ready to support my friends. We’re in this together!” Sophie Stewart, Ursuline junior, said.
The second day of the retreat began with two different speakers who brought fresh perspectives to the group. Their engaging presentations built on the themes introduced on the first day, encouraging students to continue reflecting on their personal journeys. The speakers’ diverse backgrounds and stories added richness to the discussions, prompting students to think critically about their values and goals.
The retreat culminated in another small group session; this time led by junior leaders. These leaders facilitated discussions that encouraged students to think about the lessons learned and set personal goals for the future.
As the retreat came to a close, students departed with a deeper understanding of themselves and a renewed commitment to support one another. The experiences shared during the retreat would resonate long after they returned to their daily lives, instilling a sense of hope and purpose.
THE BEAR FACTS 