University Ministry’s 2022 Freshmen Retreat

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By Isa Riaño, Advertising Manager

Although Saint Leo University’s orientation team hosted a number of events to welcome the class of 2026 to campus, they were not the only campus organization encouraging freshmen to get to know one another. Saint Leo’s University Ministry is another group that planned activities for our new students. Ministry leaders hosted a retreat where students spent one and a half days off campus, praying and participating in fun activities that helped them make friends and meet a few upperclassmen.

The retreat was held at the Bethany Center in Lutz, where Ministry’s student leaders welcomed freshmen and informed them about Ministry and how to get involved.

*The retreat’s attendees and organizers agreed that the Bethany Center had some wonderful landscapes. (Photo courtesy of Isaac Jeter)*

This was an incredible experience for the student leaders.

“It was such a blessing to be able to meet new students,” said Mary Worhacz, a senior studying medical humanities and one of the leaders. “I have a lot of faith in how the Lord will use their gifts over the next four years.”

Following introductions, students played an icebreaker game in which everyone present attempted to find someone with whom they shared interests, which allowed students to learn interesting facts about one another and even make new friends.

*Students and organizers also had time for outdoor recreational activities. (Photo courtesy of Isaac Jeter)*

Retreat attendees also had free time to play card games and ping pong. The goal was to help students bond in a fun way while they were away from campus.

Some freshmen agree that the retreat was beneficial to their personal and spiritual lives.

“I could feel more connected with my beliefs,” said Beatriz Trevisan, a freshman majoring in biology and enrolled in the Bridge Program. “It was fun talking to so many people.”

*Lunch breaks were an excellent opportunity for freshmen to make connections and get to know the Ministry leaders. (Photo courtesy of Isaac Jeter)*

Although this event was entertaining, it also was an opportunity to share Saint Leo’s and Ministry’s Catholic values, as well as spiritual messages.

James Schellenberg, a junior majoring in business management, shared an important reflection in which he stated that, while it is beneficial for students to be involved in multiple activities and leadership positions, their true identity comes from their relationship with God.

*Students gathered in small groups to reflect on the talks given by the Ministry leaders. (Photo courtesy of Isaac Jeter)*

Adam Keselicka, a senior majoring in criminal justice, gave another insightful talk about what students should strive to become during their college careers. He stated that students must choose their friends wisely, make good decisions, and maintain their spirituality.

Students also had time to pray and attend Mass in the retreat center’s chapel, as well as listen to religious music sung by Lucas Nocera, the music minister.

Nocera confirms that the experience was beneficial to the freshmen and University Ministry.

“It was a great time of community,” he said.

*The Ministry leaders aimed to maintain positive energy throughout the event. (Photo courtesy of Isaac Jeter)*

University Ministry will continue to hold events both on and off campus throughout the semester.

Those interested in learning more about University Ministry or in getting involved should stop by the Ministry Offices—located on the second floor of the Wellness Center—or contact Nocera at lucas.nocera@saintleo.edu for more information. Students can also visit University Ministry’s website at https://ministry.saintleo.edu/ to find resources and upcoming events.