As Term Two drew to a close, our Year 11 students stepped away from the busyness of school life and into three days of stillness, reflection, and connection. Set across four serene, semi-rural venues, the annual retreat was inspired by the words of Jesus: “I call you my friends” (John 15:15). It was a powerful reminder that friendship—with God and with others—is at the heart of who we are.
From the very first day, students were invited to pause, look inward, and open themselves up to the people around them. Through guided reflections, small group conversations, shared prayer, and community activities, what started as a quiet gathering quickly blossomed into something deeply personal and meaningful.
For Ben, the retreat offered moments of real growth and insight.
“Meeting so many new people… making close friendships with people I had never spoken to before… connecting with the teachers on a personal level… getting time to look inwards and find things about myself I didn’t know before,” he shared. He also appreciated “the easy ability to find a relationship with God without feeling forced.”
Piper also reflected on the experience: “My favourite memory was the night we all came together around the fire, singing and playing music while roasting marshmallows. It really helped to strengthen the bonds I had created.”
While the experience of being placed in a group away from her usual circle was initially challenging, she reflected, “I knew creating new friendships was one of the most important parts of this camp.”
As part of our ongoing Jubilee journey as Pilgrims of Hope, this retreat reminded us that friendship is not just a gift—it’s a calling. And when we take the time to grow in relationship with others, we draw closer to God as well.
