On Dec. 5, 28 Juniors eagerly embarked on the Junior Leadership Retreat. Administrative Coordinator Jason Cruz ’12, accompanied by counselors, teachers and Senior Retreat Team leaders, led the second retreat of the year (the first occurred in October). Students were given the opportunity to develop as leaders and strengthen their bonds with their peers.

Cruz laid out the offerings of the retreat, saying, “The JLR is a short overnight retreat offered to members of the junior class who are interested in developing their leadership skills and learning more about their strengths and weaknesses in those settings.”

The retreats are designed to improve a student’s leadership skills. Certain activities stuck out for students as highlights, giving them the chance to be leaders and make friends in a group setting. William Mills ‘26 stated, “My favorite part of the retreat was when we had to create a skit based on a Bible passage and a modern version. Because the groups were random, I hadn’t had the opportunity to bond with them, and so it was awkward at first, but then we quickly were able to create a friendship.”

In addition to providing students with a chance to develop and grow, the retreat also offered them an escape from the chaotic and stressful year that juniors face. Cruz shared, “The retreat program offered by Campus Ministry in general is an extremely important piece of the ‘Loyola experience,’ so the more opportunities we can offer our students to reflect on themselves, connect with others, and disconnect from all the stress and worries back home, the better.”

The retreats are completely voluntary but have seen a lot of interest this year. Due to this, Campus Ministry has added a fourth retreat in January for the first time. Attending the retreat is also a fantastic way for Juniors to set themselves apart in the Big Brother selection process. All juniors are encouraged to email Mr. Cruz for more information on the upcoming JLRs that will take place next semester.