“You alone Lord,” was the cry of the student leaders who gathered from eight different schools for the Lake Union leadership retreat last weekend. The vibrant and breathtaking autumn colors served as an inspiring background for these students seeking to be an agent of change in their schools. It was a weekend full of leadership advice, spiritual empowerment, community bonding, and creative innovation.
Around 100 students, along with various sponsors and faculty, arrived at Camp Au Sable on the eve of October 4. Pastor Michael Taylor from the Paw Paw Church kicked off the weekend with the question: “What is a leader?” Students sought to answer this by applying the skills they learned in the four sectionals: campus religious activities,
class officers, student association, and yearbook. These campus leaders equipped themselves with ideas about mentorship and leading by example.
After sectionals on Friday, students spent their afternoon racing around the go-kart track, canoeing on the lake, playing basketball, shopping in the camp store, and walking along the boardwalk. It gave students the opportunity
to relax and reflect on their sessions.
The excitement of reunion and the spirit of reflection converged into one of reverence as the Agape Feast began. The night brought diverse academy leadership together as one in Christ. “It brings into perspective how God is sovereign. It humbles me and gives me something to look forward to, said Erin Penrod, Battle Creek Academy, senior class president.
Sabbath consisted of fellowship, worship, and recreation. Students were able to commune with God, along with each other, in a quiet and uplifting atmosphere. Principals and superintendents also utilized the weekend to collaborate with their student leaders and plan for the school year. Students shared their last cup of hot chocolate or cider at
breakfast on Sunday morning and said their goodbyes. The weekend ended with a final farewell address from Taylor. Students learned to model their leadership positions after the true servant and leader, Jesus Christ.
