This is for high school and grade school students who will soon be attending a retreat at MRCC. Our intention is to help you prepare for your visit and know what to expect.

What will the retreat be like?

That is up to you and your classmates mostly! The retreat is both fun and serious. It is a chance to discuss opinions and experiences in large and small groups, to reflect privately, to play/hike/hang out during free time, to pray and think about your faith, to experience the Body of Christ in the community of your friends and peers.

What should you bring?

Clothing for two days and overnight.
Clothes should be appropriate for a retreat, comfortable for sitting on the floor and going outdoors
Layers are recommended as it is difficult for large groups to agree on a comfortable room temperature
A coat for cold weather and extra shoes if it is muddy outdoors
Toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, hair dryer, etc.) Towels, linens, and soap will be provided
Medication
A watch (you are responsible for the time)

Additional items you may want to bring:

Sports equipment (we have some available, but feel free to bring your own)
Musical instrument
Journal or sketch book
A book to read

Meals and Snacks

Plentiful meals will be provided and snack/soda machines are available. Let your campus minister know of any special dietary needs you may have such as vegetarian, food allergy, or diabetic diet prior to the retreat. Food is not allowed in the dorm rooms, so any snacks brought from home should be shared in the public spaces.

Please do not bring these items:

Cell phones
Portable televisions, CD/music file players, or computers
Homework
Hunting, fishing, sledding or swimming equipment (these activities are prohibited at all times)

The retreat is a “low-tech” experience, designed to promote community with the people attending the retreat. This is a time to rest, reflect, and live simply.

Retreat Rules

In order to maintain an atmosphere conducive to the retreat, we expect everyone to abide by the following rules:

Disruptive/disrespectful behavior (any attitude or conduct which inhibits the experience of retreat for students, faculty moderators, or staff) is not tolerated.
Drugs and alcohol are prohibited.
Curfew is strictly enforced.

Consequences for breaking these rules: the parents are notified and required to pick up the student immediately, the school is notified of the situation and may enact its own disciplinary actions.

Retreat Preparation for Students