Fordham Preparatory School - Ramview Ramview SUMMER 17 | Page 55

Campus Ministry More than ever, students are availing themselves of the opportunities that the Prep offers to step back, unplug and reflect on themselves, the people in their life and their relationship with God. The Fordham Prep retreat experience begins with the mandatory Freshman Retreat in March. This year’s retreat was successfully co-directed by Keith Healy ’17 and James McCarthy ’17, and led by 135 sophomores, juniors and seniors on the Ministry Leadership Team. Over 70% of the sophomore class participated in their optional Discovery Retreats, and over 85% of juniors participated in the Prep's Emmaus Retreats. Emmaus 275, the final of 8 Emmaus Retreats this year, was directed by Fr. Sullivan. It was his 92nd time directing an Emmaus. Finally, the Prep's Ad Amorem and Finding God in All Things retreats for seniors were enjoyed by many. Perhaps the Prep's retreat experience was summed up by Gino Galella ’17, when he reflected on faith at the Prep at this year's senior liturgy: "to witness students who hadn't even known each other before comforting, accepting and growing closer to God with one another was a life-altering experience." Michael Kravatz Director of Campus Ministry Alumnus for Others This morning, I volunteered with the Special Olympics at the Virginia Summer Games. I didn't know what to expect since it was my first time volunteering with them, but it was everything I could have hoped for and more. Seeing the looks of excitement on the kids' faces and watching them run around brought a smile to my face. I even got to present medals to the participants. I had a similar experience when I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity while at the Prep. Sometimes, something as simple as giving up a few hours of time can mean a world of difference. This morning is just another example of that. Giving back to the community is something that everybody should do, whether it's an hour a month or every single weekend. John DeMarzo ’08 Emmaus Banners Freshman Retreat Sophomore Discovery Retreat Fr. Sullivan on his 91st Emmaus S U M M E R 2017 | 55