From the Faith and Mission Team

Year 11 Retreat 2025: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Faith

On the 13th and 14th of March, the Year 11 students of St Andrew’s College embarked on their much-anticipated retreat, a two-day journey of reflection, faith, and personal growth. This annual Year 11 retreat, a cherished tradition at our school, provided students with a unique opportunity to step away from their daily routines, engage in meaningful discussions, and strengthen their relationships with themselves, their peers, and God.

The retreat began with an early morning departure from the Senior Campus, as students excitedly boarded buses to their House retreat sites. Upon arrival, they were welcomed with morning tea and an introduction to the retreat’s purpose. The atmosphere was one of anticipation as facilitators and teachers outlined the importance of reflection, self-discovery, and spiritual connection.

Exploring Identity and Purpose The first session, Who Am I?, encouraged students to reflect on their unique gifts and talents. Through engaging icebreaker activities such as ‘Human Machines,’ students discovered their individual strengths and how they contribute to a greater whole. The Parable of the Talents further reinforced the idea that each person is blessed with unique abilities meant to be shared and celebrated.

Following this, students participated in a Values Continuum, which challenged them to evaluate their beliefs and priorities. Discussions about personal values and faith deepened their understanding of what it means to live authentically in God’s image.

Faith in Everyday Life A highlight of the retreat was the God Walk, an opportunity for students to engage in a walking meditation, reflecting on their spiritual journey and God’s presence in their lives. Guided by scripture and personal intention, students embraced moments of solitude and contemplation, appreciating the beauty of creation and the divine footprints in their everyday experiences.

Another powerful experience was the Affirmation Envelopes activity. Students created personal envelopes decorated with symbols representing their identities. Throughout the retreat, peers wrote affirmations, celebrating one another’s strengths and qualities. This act of encouragement and support reinforced the importance of positive relationships and the impact of kind words.

Turning Back to God The evening sessions focused on reconciliation and renewal. Students engaged in an Examination of Conscience, followed by a powerful Adoration session where they had the opportunity to surrender their burdens to God. Writing down personal struggles and placing them into a burning bowl symbolized letting go and embracing God’s mercy. The night concluded with a heartfelt Mass, fostering a spirit of unity and gratitude among all participants.

Strengthening Relationships The final day of the retreat centered on the theme of Godly Relationships. Through scripture and personal reflections, students explored what it means to foster meaningful and Christ-centered friendships. The Affirmations session allowed students to express appreciation for their peers, reinforcing the retreat’s message of love, support, and encouragement.

As the retreat came to an end, students returned to school with a renewed sense of purpose and connection. This retreat was not just a break from the academic routine but a transformative experience that encouraged Year 11 students to embrace their identities, deepen their faith, and build lasting friendships.

A heartfelt thank you to the teachers, and volunteers who made this retreat possible. Your dedication and guidance ensured that this retreat was a meaningful and memorable experience for all.

Last week was the first of our Sac Youth Bible study sessions.

What to Expect at SAC Bible Study:

Prayer & Worship: Each session will begin with a prayer to invite God’s presence into the discussion. Music will help set a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.

Bible Study & Teaching: Students will learn different Bible study methods, including the SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer). Topics will cover essential aspects of faith, such as how to pray, how to hear God's voice, and how to cultivate a Christ-centered mindset.

Engaging Discussions: Through interactive conversations, students will reflect on scripture and apply its teachings to daily life. Proverbs 3:5-6 will be a foundational verse: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

Games & Activities: Fun activities like 'Guess the Bible Story' will make learning about scripture engaging, with prizes adding an extra layer of excitement!

Faith Chats: Understanding that not everyone is comfortable sharing in a group setting, SAC Bible Study will offer one-on-one faith chats. These sessions provide a space for students to seek guidance, ask questions, and share what’s on their hearts in a more personal setting.

Final Encouragement: Romans 8:28 reminds us: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." The team wants to leave everyone with this message: God's plans are always greater than our own. No matter what challenges arise, He is always bigger and will guide us through them with His unfailing love.

Join Us! The first SAC Bible Study session will take place every second Friday at  lunchtime in the Scared Space. Everyone is welcome, whether you're new to the faith or simply curious to learn more. We encourage you to take this opportunity to grow spiritually and strengthen your connection with God.

See you there!

 The Mission Team