For the first time ever, Molloy hosted a one-day Freshman Retreat for the entire Class of 2027 prior to the start of school on Thursday, August 31st. Held in-house on Manton Street, the day introduced incoming students to retreat life at our school, generating excitement for the next four years full of trips to Esopus, service projects, and class prayer services.
Throughout the day, our newest Stanners heard various presentations about the five Marist Pillars of Presence, Simplicity, Family Spirit, Love of Work, and In The Way of Mary. With this knowledge fresh in their minds, students then broke off into small groups led by upperclassmen to complete various games and activities that represented each pillar. Activities included being led through an obstacle course using only a partner’s voice for direction, figuring out how to get an entire team of people under a jump rope without missing a rotation, and making tote bags full of school supplies that were donated to Queens Borough Hall as part of Project: Back to School, organized by the Coalition for the Homeless. The service project was led by Campus Minister Ms. Rose Haslbauer, who estimated the number of bags donated to be about 80, and that “it was wonderful to watch the freshmen live out the Marist Mission of giving to others.” The day ended with a full-class photo, as the freshmen made the shape of a 27 on Stanner Field.
In addition to learning about being Marist, the Class of 2027 used the day to make new friends, as well as strengthen ones made over the summer at Freshman Camp. One student shared that she “loved her group and hopes she has classes with each of them!” From the adult perspective, Director of Marist Life and Mission Ms. Lori Wilson says the retreat “was a great way to meet the freshmen and introduce them to what makes Molloy unique,” continuing, “they were engaged, thoughtful, and present. It was a very successful day!” Campus Minister Mr. Matt Corrado said that he loved “witnessing our five pillars in action,” and that the day was “filled with family spirit and community building.” All involved were excited to see the freshmen get so involved with the activities, make new connections, and experience the meaning of Marist for the very first time!
According to Ms. Haslbauer, “seeing an entire class come together for the first time before the school year begins was something we hadn’t ever done before, and it was a huge accomplishment.” The day would not have gone so well if it weren’t for the 36 student leaders who helped make the freshmen feel welcome and comfortable, as well as the adult leaders that made it their mission to connect with students so they could see recognizable, friendly faces on their first day of school!