Class of 2017: Flying Away

Every past senior has told me, "senior retreat is the best retreat you will experience at Cabrini." On January 5-6, 2017, I definitely agreed with the past seniors! Senior Retreat is like no other retreat because it is one of the last times you have to spend with your class before graduation. Senior Retreat is the time when you realize how much you appreciate everyone in your class and how Cabrini has shaped you into the person you have become. You experience a ton of emotions during Senior Retreat; that is why tissues and hugs are your best friend on retreat.

For Senior Retreat, you can choose to spend a night at Camp Abbey. Any senior would tell you spending a night is a better option than coming the following day because you experience the full effect of Senior Retreat. Spending the night is a lot of fun and feels like one, big sleepover with your classmates. Senior Payton Dawson said, " I would advise future students to stay for the overnight portion of the retreat. With about four months left until graduation, I think it is important to take advantage of this last opportunity to spend time with their sisters without any school related or outside distractions."

Retreat started after school when everyone picked up their overnight bags and gave their cell phones to a teacher. I thought that not having my cell phone was going to be miserable because I could not check messages or social media. However, I am so thankful I did not have my cell phone because I got to enjoy the people who were with me instead of looking at a screen. After the 45 minute bus ride, the seniors arrived to Camp Abbey ready to make memories. The night started off with talking about the topic of retreat. The topic of retreat this year was "Messages." The Bible verse that went with retreat was Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord, 'plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."We ate dinner and then spent some time in Adoration. John Finch played music while Father Kyle held confession. I enjoyed Adoration because I could sit in silence and pray without any distractions. The class was able to let go of their problems and focus on God.

After Adoration, we had a few minutes to collect ourselves. The seniors had an opportunity to sit as one class and talk. This was personally my favorite part of retreat because I could feel the love in the room. Many people stood up and spoke about how Cabrini has changed them and thanked the people who helped them during high school. During this time, everyone shared laughs and tears together. Senior Olivia O'Neil said, "Don't wait until senior year to talk to people you don't talk to now. Don't wait. You'll never get your high school years back, and once you graduate, chances are, you won't keep in touch with every single one of your sisters. Appreciate them now. Don't let petty arguments or any drama affect your friendships. You won't remember any of that, but you will remember the memories you make."

After we closed the floor to discussion, we had a little campfire waiting outside for us. We roasted marshmallows and shared more stories with each other. The teachers called it a night, so everyone went to their cabins. In my room, we talked and laughed for hours! The next morning, we all ate breakfast in our PJs. After breakfast, everyone went back into their rooms to pack and got ready for a our long and emotional day and waited for our classmates to arrive. After everyone arrived, the whole class gathered in the conference room, so we could start our day of bonding and getting closer to God. Ms. Theriot spoke to the class about "sending messages." We had a surprise visit from Mr. Distler who spoke about his tough times and how the Cabrini family was there for him during those times of need. Mrs. Matherne also spoke to us about what our future holds after we graduate from Cabrini. She talked to us about her Cabrini experience and showed us her high school scrapbook and her senior sweater. She mentioned that she believes Mother Cabrini called her back to Cabrini.

Afterwards, everyone gathered around to listen to letters written by teachers who were not able to make retreat. I really enjoyed listening to the letters because the letters made me realize how much my teachers care about me. Senior Hassna Bazzar said, "My favorite part was the letters from the teachers. I love teachers and faculty at Cabrini and can't wait to hopefully be working with them one day. It's my dream. I have fallen in love with the way Cabrini cares for their students, and the letters made me realize it's something I'd love to be a part of."

To end Senior Retreat, the class attended Mass before leaving Camp Abbey. Once we got back to school, dinner cooked by the Dad's Club was waiting for us. After dinner, all the seniors formed a circle around the gym. Teachers and members of the Dad's Club went around the circle, praying for each and every student. Senior Retreat helped people learn more about themselves, each other, and their faith. Senior retreat is one of the best experiences at Cabrini, so cherish the time with your Cabrini family!