ICSB Staff, Belonging, and Balaton

As a new staff member, the retreat was truly such a gift. ICSB is full of such sweet community, but during the work week we are only able to spend so much time in fellowship as we pour ourselves out for our students. The retreat allowed for new connections, deeper conversations, and the freedom to actually build friendships outside of just our work responsibilities. From a worship perspective, it was also a gift in a way I did not anticipate. Moving to a new culture means moving to a new church, and that transition has taken me a little bit longer than anticipated. To worship side by side with my friends and experience the Lord together moved me to my knees so many times. I had no idea how much I needed that!

Ms. Anna Marie Ward

 

 

Staff Retreat kicked off with dinner, followed by the opening session, which focused on the theme of unity. ICSB Director Dr. Kristi Hiltibran welcomed our staff and led them in an opening prayer. After a few moments of staff-led worship, our Chaplain, Mr. Dan Culbertson, continued speaking on this year's theme of belonging and unity, drawing from Ephesians 4, focusing on verses like Ephesians 4:3.  “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Through engaging activities such as personality tests, participants explored how their unique traits could work together in pursuit of spiritual and relational unity. After the session, some jumped into the lake for a late-night swim, others played games, and many simply enjoyed one another’s company in the beautiful setting. 

 

 

Friday morning, he led the staff in reflecting on the difference between the world’s version of unity—often marked by sameness, apathy, or even opposition—and the unity found in Christ: “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” — Ephesians 5:1-2. 

Staff were invited to write a “Letter to the Bulldogs” encouraging our school community to work toward unity. 

 

 

The afternoon offered a variety of activities. Mr. and Mrs. Eding led a scenic hike, some played pickleball, and several took advantage of the beautiful weather by swimming in the lake. Some found rest and renewal in the wellness center, while others enjoyed quiet conversations or a peaceful nap.

 

 

The day concluded with trivia hosted by the Smiths, followed by an impromptu dance party and game night that brought lots of laughter and lasting memories.

 

 

Saturday morning opened with the reminder: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” — Ephesians 5:21. The group reflected on what it means to live with humility and mutual respect, rooted in Christ’s example. A powerful time followed as participants explored the armor of God—drawing it out as a visual reminder and then spending time in prayer. It was a meaningful close and quiet moment of spiritual reflection, equipping hearts and minds for the journey ahead.

 

I am so grateful that most of our staff could gather this year at the lake. I consider the retreat a very valuable investment in our school community. We enjoyed perfect weather, wonderful food, and truly meaningful time together. To me, the whole experience was a beautiful picture of the unity and encouragement found in Ephesians 4–6, which we reflected on together.

ICSB Director Dr. Kristi Hiltibran

 

 

May we all continue to grow together as we...

...Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Ephesians 5:1-2