Retreats Year 12 Retreat Retreats have long been part of the Year 12 experience at De La Salle. Held at the beginning of the academic year, retreats provide a chance for our young men to start their final year at the College on a good foundation and be aware of the presence of God in their lives. Leaving on Thursday morning and returning on Friday afternoon, they can be a window of peace and friendship away from our usual setting and day-to-day concerns. The program is made up of a range of activities designed to be appealing and practical for our students. They include discussions, games and prayer, as well as reflection time. The retreats are an opportunity for Homerooms to mix in informal surroundings, strengthening the relationships that will help them through their VCE year. If they are attentive, these relationships are another way that God speaks to them, calling them by name. Year 11 Retreats The Year 11 retreat takes Homerooms out of the normal school environment for a day of personal reflection and team-building. The fast-paced program allows for excitement and formation in equal part. The Homeroom teachers and their students complete activities and discussion in locations around Melbourne. Students enjoy the casual nature of the day, and benefit from seeing their teachers and peers in a different light. Year 8 Retreats The theme this year for Year 8 retreats was “Our Response to the Poor”. We focused on our trip to Sacred Heart Mission and the surrounding areas. We looked at Blessed Mary MacKillop and her response to the poor. A day was set aside for the Year 8s to take part in a range of activities such as games,
presentations, prayer and discussions. The retreats are a marvellous opportunity for the students and their Homeroom teachers to mix and share their ideas of responding to the poor. Year 7 Retreats This year, the focus of the Year 7 retreats was based around Community. Who do we look up to in the community and what sorts of community groups do we belong to? Which sorts of groups help others within a community? A day was set aside for the Year 7s to reflect on this issue. They also took part in a range of activities such as discussions, games and prayer. The retreats are a marvellous opportunity for Homerooms to mix and share their experiences of community. Camp Lasalle During the April break, a group of Year 8 students from all four Victorian Lasallian schools were invited to spend some time at the Brothers’ property at Phillip Island. Camp Lasalle was a chance for students to get to know each other and enjoy a break. We were fortunate enough to do several activities such as
32
going to see the penguins, the always popular visit to the chocolate factory, and a visit to “The Nobbies”. There was an opportunity for prayer, group discussions and a chance to enjoy the beach. Leaders Encounter This year has seen the beginning of our Leaders encountering Leaders from all four Lasallian schools, meeting to network and share their experiences of leadership, as well as have time to socialise. Mr Des Calleja
