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Last weekend, the 11th grade confirmation class experienced
a retreat sleepover here at Good Shepherd Church. This was like
no other experience in their lives. When they came to Daniels
Hall on Saturday evening they were expecting another boring,
classroom session. Snap! That's not what happened.
First they were blindfolded and led into a room where they were
spoken to by a burning bush. Later they were allowed to read
"love letters" from their parents. The result of the
retreat was in some ways a venting of  their
emotions and in other ways a "wake up" to a world of
Christian love. One group of 11th graders wrote a song which
they asked to share with our Generations of Faith community.
The overnight Confirmation Retreat took place on Saturday,
October 24 and concluded on Sunday, October 25. The theme was
based upon the Paschal Mystery, "Die, Rise and Go with Christ."
The youth listened to witness talks given by members of the retreat
team. The retreat team was composed of peers and adults of the
parish. The retreat included the Sacrament of Reconciliation,
morning and evening prayer, large and small group activities,
a Commitment Service, icebreakers and games, great food, and
much more. The Confirmandi attended the 11:00 Parish Liturgy.
A fun and meaningful time was had by all!
Confirmation and Youth Minister Suzanne Foster said the weekend
went well. She wants all parents to know that they have done
a good job with this 11th grade group. They are on their way.
Confirmands were asked to evaluate the retreat. Here are some
of the comments:
"It showed me a lot about myself that I hadn't realized
before. It was a lot of fun, but we really needed more sleep.
This was a lot better than I expected. I had lots of fun."
"This retreat really opened my eyes to Christianity and
what it means to be Christian."
"It taught me a lot and brought me closer to God."
"The activities were fun to do and you could reflect."
"The small group presentations were a lot of fun. All the
activities meant a lot to me."
"It was great being with our entire Confirmation class.
I got to know new people. I actually got a lot out of it."
"Thanks for doing this. I have lots to think about. All
the adults were nice and helpful. Thanks!
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