40 Stories for 40 Years – High School Retreat

High School Retreat

The annual high school retreat is an FCS tradition that dates back to 1991. Every year, the entire high school student body, along with high school teachers and other staff members, kicks off the school year by piling into buses and heading out for two jam-packed days of fun and fellowship. With close to 230 students and 60 staff members participating–plus over 30 parent volunteers–we had quite a caravan this year!

For the last 15 years, the high school retreat has been held at Rockbridge Young Life Camp where students can choose from a wide variety of water and other outdoor activities. Perennial favorites include the gaga ball pit, ropes course, and zipline. Faculty members also organize group activities such as tug-of-war, themed dress-up contests, and a talent show. A notable addition in 2019 was the scavenger hunt. The camp also boasts a game room and snack bar, and an army of parent volunteers prepares and serves delicious meals each day to help keep costs down and allow the teachers and staff to spend time with the students.

While there is a focus on fun, time is set aside every day for worship and a message from a special guest speaker that helps set set the spiritual tone for the school year. It is a special privilege to see students make commitments to Christ and a particular joy to witness lives change.

The retreat also gives students an opportunity to forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones while interacting with their teachers in a fun, active environment. With all the lasting memories made each year, it’s no surprise that so many FCS students look forward to the retreat each year and count it among the highlights of their high school experience.

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