Retreat Theme: Faithfulness – The Holy Spirit Dwells
"For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love." (Romans 5:5)

The Year 7 evening Retreat began with lighting their Year 7 Retreat Candle to symbolise the light of love, the light of the future, and the light of their hearts to guide them as they began their journey at St John Paul II College. United in hope, the students were encouraged to open the door of their hearts and to be a channel of love – in what they say, what they do, and the way they think.

As a symbol of the love this group shared and a symbol of the beginning of their spiritual journey, each student came forward and traced their hand on a huge canvas. Then followed a reflection: "God has written the name of each of us on the palm of His hand." God loves us unconditionally! Even when we make mistakes, God will not love us any less or any more tomorrow than He loves us right now! As their hands grow over their time at JPC, so too will their hearts. As they become more generous, loving, and wise and find their place in this world, they will be the light, sharing their gifts with our faith community. They will be a beacon for others to follow so that they too may seek their dreams for the future through their faithfulness.

Each student then lit a candle, reflecting on their God-given gifts. As the canvas was illuminated with all the candles, they realised that by bringing their gifts to our community, we become brighter, stronger, and more beautiful! A powerful symbol of how the light of love, the light of the future, and the light in their hearts will guide them on their journey at St John Paul II College.

The Retreat concluded with the Year 7 students writing a letter to themselves, which they will open at their Year 12 Retreat in 2030. The students wrote about their dreams for the future, their prayers for their families, and their aspirations for their spiritual journey ahead. Some students had the opportunity for stargazing. The Year 7 students sometimes feel small and insignificant… but without them, without their loving hearts and gifts of the Holy Spirit, St John Paul II College would be a gloomy place. Like the stars, together they brighten the whole school.

"My God loves me and all the wonders I see and all small signs of love my God has for me. He calls my name, to Him no one is the same – to Him I am me."

Ms Maria Tolfree
Mission and Ministry