Last weekend, the class of 2014 attended its last BSM class retreat at Camp Ihduhapi with BSM Campus Minister, Mike Jeremiah. Just like the seniors, however, it was Mr. J’s last overnight retreat as well, making it an emotional experience for many.

With less than two months until graduation, seniors spent their time on the retreat reflecting on their years at BSM through journaling, one-on-one conversations, small group discussions, and large group gatherings. Within these activities, Mr. J also got to reflect on his 38 years of conducting BSM’s class retreats at Camp Ihduhapi.

As many already know, next year, Mr. J will not be working with the peer ministry program nor will he be directing class retreats. However, he still plans to stick around at BSM in the years to come, doing everything from conducting weekly before-school prayer to working with the music department. “The only part of my ministry that I will lose next year will be my work with the peer ministry program and with retreats,” said Mr. J.

Outside of school, Mr. J will continue to be a member of Camp Ihduhapi’s board of directors along with working with the Shared Ministers, students from the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University who act towards upperclassmen as the equivalent to BSM’s Peer Ministers for freshmen and sophomores. The Shared Ministers, which include BSM alumni, were present throughout the senior retreat weekend as well, leading cabins and attending the large group discussions.

The retreat began bright and early Saturday morning and concluded on Sunday afternoon. Notable activities included a limbo contest and along with a candlelit gathering. On Saturday, a Palm Sunday service was held as well, which included palm branches.

Overall, although the weekend marked the end of an era, Mr. J. considers it a success. “In spite of the fact that it was a very difficult weekend for me personally, and for the senior class, I think it was an amazing experience,” said Mr. J.