Klaus Solko, contributor

As the weeks of school start to get harder, it is important to remember to connect with your community and take a step away. Campus Ministry did just that this past weekend, Sept. 27-28, at True Friends Camp Eden Wood with their annual fall retreat. The retreat was open to all students and advertised through posters around campus. “The fall campus ministry retreat is a student-led time away from campus that cultivates belonging and community. Students who attend are reminded of their need to be in relationship with others and with creation, and everyone has the opportunity to take some much needed time for self-care. It’s a time of deep rest and play set apart from the busy, ordinary routines where all are welcomed and valued just for showing up,” said Pastor John Schwehn in an interview with the Echo. 

During the trip there were two devotionals. The first was led by Lee Kroska and was about letting go of the things that are holding us back. It was a beautiful moment of understanding and community when we came together to share. Understanding that we are all in different places of life, and that the things we are letting go of used to serve a purpose. After we were done sharing, there was the option to burn the piece of paper with the things people were letting go of. It was a very cathartic experience for many. The other devotional was in the morning during breakfast where we talked about the things in life that we take for granted. We reflected on who we should be thanking for these things and just took a moment to feel grateful. 

Both of these devotionals did an excellent job of combining important lessons with Bible topics and world examples, leading to an all-inclusive experience. As someone who is newly thinking about Christian faiths, I felt I could participate in these conversations and learn about myself without having a lot of knowledge or belief. 

The retreat wasn’t just focused on lessons, though. Going through college is difficult, and one of the hardest things for many people is making friends and making the time to do random fun things. The Campus Ministry Retreat gave a place for people to do both. Fellow Auggie Jerid McDonald led a knitting group, where many first timers joined and were able to learn over the weekend. Even Pastor John started what he claims will become a hat. At the bonfire, Pastoral Intern Lucas Carlson played guitar while people sang and made s’mores. Afterwards, there were many board games played inside and a night time game of Gaga ball. One group was awake until two in the morning intensely playing round after round of spoons. 

The following day was when I really saw that the friendships that had been made would be extending beyond the trip. I watched as people made driving arrangements and many made plans to go to the Augsburg football game together. Being one of the ones to volunteer to stay behind and make sure everything was cleaned up properly gave me the unique opportunity to talk with camp retreat host Ramona. She told me about how she always looks forward to having Augsburg groups stay with them and how our ministry is always so respectful and positive. In this moment I looked back at the weekend and realized how deep and meaningful the connections made had been. At this time where making friends can be impossible, I encourage everyone to take the opportunities Augsburg gives us to make these connections.