On Saturday, September 25, Interfaith Impact members journeyed to the beautiful Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens for a fall retreat. The get-away gave veterans and new members of II a chance to bond during the overnight stay. The adventure started bright and early at 9 a.m., with an opening introduction by Melissa Wales, the Executive Director of United Campus Ministry, on what UCM is all about. Next, the retreaters spent a few hours drawing out “life maps,” and sharing their stories with one another. Pizza arrived just in time to hush rumbling stomachs, and the next few hours were spent snacking, laughing, and getting to know fellow II members. In between all of the fun, about an hour was spent discussing various issues that II members felt went against UCM’s mission of promoting spiritual growth and social justice. Next, UCM’s Campus Minister, Evan Young, arrived with dinner, and after vegetarian casserole and salad, the evening activities began. First, II retreaters paired up for in depth discussions about the days events, including what each thought about the Life Maps exercise. And finally, Evan lead a peaceful meditation that closed the days activities.
Interfaith Impact’s fall retreat was a wonderful bonding experience, and we are looking forward to doing it again soon.
