On Tuesday, January 23rd, and Wednesday, January 24th, the Fifth Form participated in their annual retreat at the Ammerdown Centre.
The retreat, which was conducted over two days, saw the pupils divided into two groups, with each group attending for one day.
This year’s retreat focused on the thought-provoking theme, ‘Who do you say I am?’ The pupils engaged in a series of three talks, small group discussions, Mass before lunch, and an Emmaus walk activity. These components were thoughtfully designed to foster deep reflection and personal growth among the pupils.
We had the honor of welcoming Dr. Maureen Glackin as our speaker for the retreat. Dr. Glackin is renowned for her friendship, expertise and insights, particularly in the realm of Chaplaincy and Catholic education. Her role as the Secretariat for the ‘Catholic Independent Schools’ Conference’ (CISC), to which Downside School is affiliated.
Dr. Glackin’s insightful talks and guidance were instrumental in enriching the retreat experience, helping the pupils to delve into the theme with depth and understanding. The Chaplaincy extends its gratitude to Ammerdown for their warm hospitality and amazing food, to Dr. Glackin for generously dedicating her time to our pupils, the 5th Form tutors for their support and presence during the retreat, the mini bus drivers to helping with the transport and the pupils themselves for taking up the challenge of stepping back from school life at the moment.
In line with the retreat’s reflective spirit, a poignant quote from Pope Francis was shared with the pupils:
“Know myself deeply yet transcend that self to serve others; immerse myself fully in a complex world yet step back for daily reflection; and live fully in the present while reverencing the past, yet boldly create a future.”
This quote beautifully encapsulates the essence of the retreat and serves as a guiding light for our pupils in their journey of personal and spiritual development, in what is a very challenging academic year for them.
