It is that time of year again–Middle School Retreat is just around the corner, and it is not something to be missed. Here is the picture: a weekend off campus, with laughter, games, worship and chilling with middle schoolers who are just as excited as you are. It is a great chance to grow in your faith, make new friends and have new experiences that will stay with you long after the weekend is over.
This year, Northwestern College and Dordt University are teaming up with Cultivate Co-Op to offer middle school students an incredible interactive retreat experience from April 11-13 at Hidden Acres Camp in Dayton, Iowa. If anyone has been looking for a way to encourage younger students while also deepening your own faith, this is it.
So, what is Middle School Retreat? Think of it as the ultimate mixture of meaningful conversation, heart-pounding activities and all-night discussions that somehow turn into the memory of a lifetime. The theme this year is “Hold Fast,” and it focuses on holding on to God during the ambiguity of life. In large group, small group discussions and individual reflection time, students will get to see what it may be like to trust God in every situation in life.
But let’s be realistic– middle schoolers are full of energy, so there is plenty of energy and there is plenty of action-packed fun in the mix, too. From team challenges to classic camp games, this weekend is designed to keep everyone engaged. Recreational time is about making memories, laughing until your sides hurt and maybe demonstrating that you still have some dodgeball skills.
One of the best parts about MSR is the relationships you make. College students get to lead small groups, mentor middle schoolers and be the kind of role models younger people look up to. Whether it is through sharing a personal story, helping to lead discussions, or simply being there to listen, college students will leave an impact.
One of the other major aspects of this retreat is worship. Led by gifted musicians and speakers, the worship sessions allow students the chance to truly connect with God, whether that is by belting out a favorite song at the top of one’s lungs, taking a moment of quiet prayer or just simply siting in reflection on all that has been said during the weekend. It is one of those things that will stick with them long after camp is finished.
When Sunday rolls around, students will leave with plenty of new friendships, a fresh perspective on faith, and probably a new understanding on what middle school slang means. The MSR is not just a weekend getaway , but also a chance to step out of the everyday and experience God in a whole new way.
