Freshmen stayed on campus for a day of fun activities that helped them discover where they fit in as part of their new Messmer family. Peer leaders from the Junior class led the charge. Sophomores had a new partner with Marquette University Campus Ministry. They spent the day at Marquette University in the Alumni Memorial Union, Chapel of the Holy Family, bowling in the Union Sports Annex, and tours to the historic Saint Joan of Arc Chapel. The theme for this day of reflection was Imagination (Imagining a world of justice, faith, and discernment) and Cura Personalis (Care of the whole person). Marquette students and staff shared inspirational perspectives on life beyond high school. Juniors set off for a day of teamwork, fellowship, and discovering potential through outdoor rock wall climbing and high ropes courses at the beautiful YMCA Camp Minikani in Hubertus, Wisconsin. Seniors also returned to their beloved, annual, overnight retreat destination of Camp Minikani in Hubertus. Bonfire talks, fellowship, prayer, reflection and canoeing filled their days and night. All the Messmer High School retreats were well-needed, and deserved opportunities to develop old and new relationships with classmates and faculty in casual, faith-filled and fun environments. So many shared it was a needed mental break. The retreats operated in the spirit of our 2024-25 scriptural theme from Matthew 15:16: But what about you? Jesus asked. Who do you say that I am? Discovering the spirit of Jesus in one another is a great way to recognize the love and dignity that exists in Messmer and how students can learn to seek it out in the world beyond our school walls. Campus Ministry Moment The annual Messmer retreats were a huge success! Almost 500 students participated in grade-specific days of team building, character development, and faith formation. We realized that as a whole class, we have real love for each other. KJ I really enjoyed the bonfire, where we sat together answering questions on who we were, who we are, and who we want to be. It made me realize how we all go through similar things. EA 10