Story by Lauren Esveld
This year’s spiritual retreat for Spencerville Adventist Academy took place at the restful Mount Aetna Camp and Retreat Center in Hagerstown, Md. Having a spiritual retreat at the beginning of the school year served as a refreshing pause that fostered unity among the students and led to reflection and spiritual growth.
The weekend centered on the powerful theme found in John 13:35: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (NIV).
Throughout the retreat, students were given opportunities to connect with God and each other in meaningful ways. Guest speaker Erwin Nanasi, worship and music pastor of the Spencerville church in Silver Spring, Md., led out in worship talks. His engaging messages challenged students to live out Christ’s love in tangible ways—not just during the retreat, but in their daily lives.
The retreat began Friday morning as students departed campus, filled with anticipation. The students participated in spirited Student Association (SA) activities that set the tone for the weekend. The evening marked the beginning of spiritual programming where students gathered for worship, music and a devotional thought—a time that fostered vulnerability, connection and a shared sense of purpose. Sophomore Saneliso Sokupa learned from the experience “how intertwined God is in music and the beauty of praising Him in song.”
Sabbath was especially memorable. After breakfast, students participated in spiritual breakout sessions, deepening their understanding of the weekend’s theme through hands-on activities. A group photo captured all the students and staff who attended, and soon after, students joined together again for an extended worship and reflec- tion session that highlighted the importance of love and discipleship.
Afternoon and evening activities offered a blend of quiet reflection, small group discussion and creative worships. These moments encouraged students to not only think deeply about their personal faith journeys but also to support and uplift their peers. Camden Armstrong, SAA’s athletic director, capped off the evening with fun and inclusive activities for all, reinforcing the bond being formed among classmates.
By the end of the retreat, hearts were lighter, spirits renewed and connections stronger. “The experiences we shared at the spiritual retreat will not only stay in our hearts forever, but it has also been seen and will be remembered by the One up above,” says freshman Steve O’Neil.