Archbishop Carney Regional Secondary School Students Empowered as Missionaries at Little Flower Monastery
A two-day retreat was held from October 7th to 8th, 2024, where 42 Grade 11 and 12 students from Archbishop Carney Regional Secondary School, along with their teachers, campus ministers, and school chaplain, spent two transformative days at Little Flower Monastery, Carmel Hill, Deroche, BC. The retreat was designed to form and empower these young leaders to serve as missionaries within their school community, equipping them with the skills and spiritual foundation needed to spread their faith.

Throughout the retreat, the students participated in various workshops aimed at enhancing their ability to lead small groups, engage in praise and worship, and share personal testimonies. They also learned how to build and strengthen faith communities, all while growing in their own faith and leadership abilities. The central theme of the retreat was inspired by 2 Timothy 1:6: "Fan into flame the gift of God within you," which motivated participants to nurture the gifts of the Spirit in their lives.

In addition to the workshops, the students spent valuable time in prayer, celebrating the Eucharist, and adoring Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. The experience deepened their relationship with God and provided them with the spiritual tools needed to lead and inspire others within their school community.

The school community expressed heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Stephen Lobo, OCD, Assistant Director of the monastery, for his inspiring preaching, and to Fr. Vincent Dsouza, OCD, Superior of the monastery, for celebrating Mass and offering support throughout the retreat. Their presence and guidance contributed greatly to the success of this formative experience for the students.