Gathering and Reflection at the Jewish Community Center
In the heart of Worcester, the Holy Cross campus was abuzz with activity this past weekend. On one side, the vibrant atmosphere of the stArt on the Street Festival filled Park Avenue with music, dance, and art. On the other, the first-year students were escaping the stress of everyday life at the First-Year Ignite Retreat.
The Ignite Retreat, organised by the chaplain's office, aimed to cultivate friendships among students and unite them under the purpose of slowing down. This retreat provided a focused environment for first-year students to deepen their spiritual relationship with God over a weekend. The retreat took place at the Joyce Contemplative Center on September 27th, with 45 freshmen in attendance.
The retreat included student leader examens, personal reflection, and community-building activities. The student leaders, ranging from sophomores to seniors, led small groups for reflection on how first-years had been adjusting to life on the Hill. Dinner was provided by the JCC staff on the first night of the retreat.
Moreover, students were encouraged to leave their cell phones in their rooms and try not to check them all day during the retreat. Omondi Andrew and Salena Ibrahim, first-year chaplains, also attended the retreat.
For those seeking a more contemplative experience, the chaplain's office is offering several other retreats throughout the year. These retreats, including the upcoming five-day silent retreat, are designed as a time for deep spiritual quiet and reflection, focusing on cultivating silence to foster a closer relationship with God. Although the precise dates and details of this specific retreat are not yet available, related retreats emphasise silence as a central spiritual practice that involves quieting the mind, body, and soul to become more receptive to God's presence.
Meanwhile, the stArt on the Street Festival showcased the electric crowd that Worcester has to offer. The festival, which took place in the center of Worcester, featured a variety of performances and art installations that showcased the creativity and diversity of the local community.
In addition to these events, the College Choir and Chamber Singers hosted the Fall Concert at the Prior Performing Arts Center this week. The concert, which showcased the talents of the College's music students, was a testament to the vibrant arts scene at Holy Cross.
Lizzie Swanson '28 and Abigail Clark '26, both staff writers for the Holy Cross student newspaper, covered the First-Year Ignite Retreat and the stArt on the Street Festival, respectively. Their articles provide a glimpse into the diverse experiences and opportunities available to students at Holy Cross.
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