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Guys Retreat
On February 8th and 9th, ten educators hosted 22 upperclassmen and 43 underclassmen at the inaugural ‘Guys Retreat’ at Short Journey.
Father Luke Rawicki, one of the mentors, said, “The retreat’s theme was ‘learning from failure.’ I think one of the meaningful parts was that the students could hear first-hand stories from educators and coaches who learned from failures in their lives. Students can feel weighed down by the pressure to succeed in everything, but the retreat taught them that life is full of ups and downs for everyone. The message from mentors they look up to seemed to resonate with these young men, who all have a lot on their plates!”
“The retreat allowed students to escape from the ‘business of life,’” added Tim Yelenic, Director of Retreats at Gibbons. “Upperclassmen had a chance to hear testimonies from male educators, play an interactive live clue game, take time to deepen their relationship with God, and, on the second day, had the chance to lead underclassmen in a day of team competitions as well as spiritual growth. Watching all the guys being fully involved and willing to participate was a highlight of the retreat,” said Tim.
Gibbons Head Football Coach Steven Wright was also a mentor at the retreat. As a coach, he knows kids
‘have a lot to juggle,’ agreeing with Father Luke that the retreat addressed all the “stuff” kids have on their plates. “We had some great fellowship, authentic small group discussions, and incredible sharing from both the leaders and the guys who attended,” said Coach Wright, “It was an outstanding experience!”
Another faculty member joining the retreat was Science Educator Mark Perry, “If you do not fail, you are not trying. The process, not the product, defines our character.” He said that we learn, grow, and become better versions of ourselves when we dare to embrace failure. Specifically speaking about the retreat experience, he added, “Through shared stories of failures, setbacks, and weaknesses, we grew as men of courage, faith, and wisdom. The retreat was more than just a getaway to Short Journey; it was a reminder that failure is the driving force for future growth.”
Opportunities to take time to reflect and incorporate faith into an encounter that recognizes the challenges facing students today are often rare. At Cardinal Gibbons, it is an essential part of the ‘Gibbons Experience’ and another part of how we are ‘working together to develop ‘the knowledge, skills, and courage to live a good and meaningful life.’
