The 8^th graders at John Paul II Catholic School joyfully celebrated a powerful day of faith and fellowship as 62 students participated in their class retreat held at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Beaufort, themed “Big Fish in a Small Pond,” inspired by 1 Timothy 4:12: “Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.”

Designed to encourage students to embrace leadership, confidence, and Christ-centered living, the retreat offered a meaningful pause from daily routines—an invitation to encounter God more deeply and strengthen their bonds with one another. Through prayer, small-group discussions, witness talks, team-building activities, and moments of community, students reflected on what it means to live their faith authentically, even when they may feel like “a big fish in a small pond.”

The day was led by our ACTS29 Peer Ministry Team, a dedicated group of seniors who planned and facilitated the retreat with compassion, creativity, and spiritual maturity. Their servant leadership modeled exactly what the theme calls young people to embody: courage, example, and witness.

Campus Minister Deacon Brent Heathcott expressed enormous gratitude and pride in both the retreat team and the participating students. “John Paul II class retreats provide a unique opportunity for our students to get away from our school campus for a day to experience faith, fellowship, and fun with their classmates,” he said. “Our ACTS29 Peer Ministry team, made up of seniors, did a wonderful job creating a memorable retreat experience for our eighth-grade students. It was truly a Spirit-filled day!”

From heartfelt prayer to moments of laughter and lively connection, the retreat reminded students that their voices, gifts, and faith matter—now and always. We are deeply grateful for our campus ministry team, our senior peer ministers, our faculty chaperones, and the parents who support their children’s spiritual formation.

May this retreat continue to inspire our eighth graders to lead with integrity, love boldly, and shine as examples of Christ in every setting. What a blessed and beautiful day for our Golden Warriors!