The Newman University Campus Ministry office held its annual fall retreat at Camp Tawakoni in Wichita on Friday, Oct. 14 through Sunday, Oct. 16.
The purpose of the retreat was to combine service and fellowship to bring students closer to each other and their faith.
A total of 18 Newman students participated in the retreat and also helped with a Habitat for Humanity build. During the retreat, students offered testimonies for the fellowship portion of the retreat and Newman Chaplain Fr. John Fogliasso offered Mass, adoration and confession.
“It’s great that we have the opportunity to do these types of things at Newman University although we don’t all share the same faith. We are still able to come together and recognize that we have a lot of things in common and to let those common things bring us together,” said Administrative Assistant for Campus Ministry Monica Borger.
During the build, students were split up into two different groups. The ladies were in one group working on an all women’s build, which gave them the chance to work with other women in the community.
“You could really tell that you were making a difference because you can see some of the houses that were still there in that neighborhood, which is known as one of the most low-income neighborhoods, so you can really see the difference that the organization has made with all the new housing that has been put up. It’s making the neighborhood look a lot better,” says Junior Alec Hampton.
After a Saturday full of hard work, the students participated in Holy Mass, enjoyed a wonderful dinner, and relaxed around a campfire.
Senior Natalie Hertel describes her experience during the retreat.
“My favorite part of the Campus Ministry retreat was Habitat for Humanity because it gave us an opportunity to get to know new people who share the same values.”
The next Campus Ministry retreat, a “Retreat and Serve” event, will be on Jan. 8 in Chicago. If you are interested and would like more information, email [email protected]. Flyers about the event are posted around campus.
