Catholic Society Retreat

I just got back from my first "real" retreat - I went on one when I was around 11 years old but besides bonding with my sister in law, I didn't get much out of it. Unlike that retreat, this one was really remarkable!

Why was it so remarkable?

1. I got to meet and get to know all the Catholic freshman ladies that I go to school with which was so nice.
2. It was good to get away from campus for a while - the fresh air, beautiful lake, peaceful silence, and new things to do.
3. I got to do Catholic stuff. Hardcore. I probably went to Adoration for a total of 5 hours in the last day. I've never done that before in my LIFE. It was so powerful. They offered nighttime adoration in the evening and everyone signed up for a time slot. I chose 5am cause nobody else had and it was so worth it. Rules are that Jesus cannot be left alone in the Sacrament and so two people must be adoring Him at all times when it is exposed. So, I was there praying with another girl who I got close to named Katie. It's so cool cause, in adoration, you don't talk; you are just both kneeling and praying in silence... together. It's hard to explain the connection.

4. What happened to me DURING adoration- Like I said, I'm new at this, so for the first half hour of my shift, I was so tired and kept falling asleep. This really frustrated me because I wanted to really feel Christ's presence and wasn't. I decided to focus on saying the rosary and about two decades in (all the while I was super sleepy) I felt this surge of energy just HIT ME. And, inside of me, I felt like someone was saying my name and all I could do was look right at the altar. It was so incredible. Unfortunately, it was only for five minutes but in that five minutes, I felt closer to God than ever before! I encourage anyone who hasn't gone to adoration... to go. That's all. Just go.
5. Finally, when I arrived back at my dorm, I saw all my hallmates and it felt so good to be back at "home" :) I really love it here. I am so thankful to God that I am given opportunities to worship Him and be with such loving people. Praise the Lord!