One of the most valued events by the students at St Catherine’s is the annual retreat. For the Lower and Middle School, this is a day of team-building, spiritual reflection and fun! However, the Sixth Form have the privilege of a residential trip, which this year, took place from 10 to 12 November in Pinner with a lovely company called SPEC who aim to provide retreats for school children in the Diocese of Westminster. The theme of the retreat was ‘What is Love?’ which we all found relatable and thought-provoking.
My favourite part of the retreat was the time we spent in the Chapel. It had an air of tranquility and tenderness from the moment you entered, making it ideal for the two sessions of adoration we had on Wednesday and Friday. These were sessions of quiet and reflection accompanied by gentle songs and occasional words of inspiration which we all found utterly relaxing and spiritually warming.
We also took part in many activities as a year group in the evenings – we were all grateful to be able to spend time together away from the stress of exams and homework! The whole experience took place in beautiful grounds – on the brink of Autumn, the atmosphere was particularly majestic with rolling fields of colourful forest and elegant buildings. Overall, I can confidently say the trip provided us with memories we will treasure for a long time, and we thoroughly hope to return next year.
Thea 12M