AMIDST RAIN AND REFLECTION: WAU’S SPIRITUAL RETREAT REINFORCES FAITH AND COMMUNITY

TAKOMA PARK, MARYLAND — Washington Adventist University’s (WAU) Henry and Sharon Fordham Department of Religion kicked off the school year with its traditional retreat at Summit Lake Camp in Emmitsburg from Sept. 22 to Sept. 24.

The department chair, Dr. Olive Hemmings, expressed gratitude for the picturesque camp setting, noting it amplified the retreat’s spiritual experience. “Spending these days together strengthens our community ties and deepens our connection to God’s word,” said Dr. Hemmings.

One of the retreat’s highlights was the communion service led by Pastor Alex Barrientos, underscoring the pivotal role played by Sligo’s staff. Dr. Hemmings also gave a nod to Professor Bogdan Scur’s spiritual exercises.

Embracing silence played a pivotal role in the retreat’s daily routine. Attendees began their mornings with quiet breakfasts and meditations, followed by group discussions about scripture. Fun activities complemented the spiritual sessions.

The weekend’s weather, characterized by heavy rain, surprisingly aligned with the chosen scripture, Mark 4:35-41, where Jesus calms a storm. “Despite the rain, students ventured out, drawing parallels between the scripture and their experience,” Dr. Hemmings recalled.

Yordin Hernandez, a student who attended the retreat, reflected on the transformative experience. “I approached the event with some reservations, but by its conclusion, they were entirely dispelled,” Hernandez said. Set against the backdrop of a tranquil location, the retreat offered him a chance for deep introspection about his spiritual journey and the central role of scripture. “Those quiet moments, connecting solely with God, were deeply rewarding,” he added. Hernandez strongly recommends the experience and is eager for the next retreat. His primary takeaways were the importance of placing unwavering trust in God and cherishing silent moments to understand God’s direction and intent.

The retreat concluded with an exercise where attendees shared personal testimonials, followed by leisure activities like tennis and basketball. Reflecting on the event, Dr. Hemmings emphasized, “The core message from this retreat is simple: Even amidst life’s turbulence, God stands with us.”