![Group Picture at Middle Grades Retreat]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761056303/icsbudapestorg/utinlkygf5yfakqhy3e4/grouppictureatmiddlegradesretreat5.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761056303/icsbudapestorg/utinlkygf5yfakqhy3e4/grouppictureatmiddlegradesretreat5.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761056303/icsbudapestorg/utinlkygf5yfakqhy3e4/grouppictureatmiddlegradesretreat5.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1761056303/icsbudapestorg/utinlkygf5yfakqhy3e4/grouppictureatmiddlegradesretreat5.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1761056303/icsbudapestorg/utinlkygf5yfakqhy3e4/grouppictureatmiddlegradesretreat5.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1761056303/icsbudapestorg/utinlkygf5yfakqhy3e4/grouppictureatmiddlegradesretreat5.jpg","width":2200}])
From Mission Impossible to mission-minded chapels, this year's Middle Grades Retreat was one to remember!
The Middle Grades Retreat was a memorable experience filled with connection, worship, learning, and plenty of fun. The retreat kicked off on Friday with students traveling to Word of Life, where they settled into their rooms, had a group snack, and posed for a group photo.
After a warm welcome and orientation, students launched into a mix of guided free time and team-building activities, including small group icebreakers.
For the three main sessions during the retreat, Mr. Sawyer Smith led worship, accompanied by Ms. Kate Smith, Ms. Laura Danneker, and Mr. Ben Doerksen, followed by Mr. Josh Payne, who spoke on sacrifice and surrender.
The day continued with group games that brought everyone together in laughter and friendly competition. In the evening, students returned for a second chapel session before diving into “Mission Impossible,” a high-energy nighttime game that involves dodgeballs, double agents, and more. During this fast-paced Middle Grades staff members can eliminate students from the game by lurking in the shadows and throwing a dodgeball at them. A major highlight of this game, which, due to his absence for totalization, was missing from retreat last year, is Lower School Principal Mr. David Kelley's infamous evil laugh.
The day wrapped up around a bonfire with marshmallows and choko biscuits, giving students a chance to relax and reflect under the stars.
Saturday began with options for early risers, including a sensory nature prayer walk, followed by breakfast and morning quiet time. The closing session and small group reflection of the retreat encouraged students to go deeper in their faith and friendships. They also had time for outdoor activities like soccer, volleyball, frisbee, or simply relaxing with friends. The retreat wrapped up with class activities and a final lunch, before students boarded buses to head back to school.
From heartfelt worship and thoughtful small group conversations to high-energy games and quiet moments of reflection, the retreat created space for students to grow spiritually, build friendships, and make lasting memories.
