As 2011 has come to an end, the youth had an amazing opportunity to attend this year’s Rockford Retreat. Both Chicago parishes came together at the retreat to not only strengthen our relationships with God, but also to create new memories with all of our peers and leaders. This experience to take part in something so giving was life changing. It gave the youth a sense of morals and values as well as educational aspects about Jesus Christ.
Since this was my first time going to a Rockford Retreat, I decided to go with an open mind. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I thought I would have to sit through long boring lectures and be sleep deprived. From the moment we got onto the buses I had a good feeling about the retreat. Every morning we started out with a morning prayer which helped us connect with God from the moment we woke up to the time we went to sleep. We also attended English Syro-Malabar Holy Mass everyday. One of the most enjoyable parts out of the retreat was making skits with our small groups. It was a laughable religious experience that connected to the morals of life.
My favorite part of the retreat was having adoration. It was a time where we could just talk with God and let everything out. It got so intense to the point where tears were streaming down the faces of many. During adoration we did an activity called the Tunnel of Fire. It allowed all the chaperones and leaders to stand like a tunnel, hold our shoulders and immensely pray for us while we prayed our hearts out to God.
I would like to thank Saji Achan, Mutholath Achan, Mathew Achan, all the inspiring people who spoke to us, all the parent volunteers and all the small group leaders that took their time to help us out. Overall the retreat was an enjoyable experience for all and I will definitely be signing up next year.
- Amy Kuply
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