Every October, the entire Messmer student body pauses their usual routines for one of the most anticipated events of the year: our annual fall retreats. These formative experiences are a highlight for students and faculty alike, creating powerful memories and providing essential time for reflection, growth, and community building.

From freshmen just finding their footing to seniors preparing for graduation, each class participates in a unique, age-appropriate retreat designed to guide them through their high school journey.

Freshmen: Mentorship and Core Values

Our newest members spent their day on campus, establishing their place in the Messmer family with the help of staff-selected Junior mentors. This vital mentorship structure allows older students to model leadership and welcome the freshmen.

The day's focus was on identity and decision-making. Students engaged in activities centered on:

• Identifying their core values.
• Considering their personal goals for the future.
• Discussing real-life scenarios, using their core values as a guide for solid decision-making.

A powerful tradition was the writing of a letter to their future senior self, which they will receive back years from now on their Senior retreat.

Journeys to Growth: Sophomores and Juniors

The Sophomore class visited the Marquette University campus, benefiting from college exposure. A special stop for all was a visit to the St. Joan of Arc Chapel. Students also heard from a Messmer 2025 graduate who is now thriving at MU on an All-In Milwaukee scholarship. 

The Junior retreat provided a vital space for students to step back and examine their spiritual journeys. They ventured out to Camp Minikani, a beloved natural setting that provides a peaceful backdrop for reflection and prayer. Here, they focused on teamwork and challenge, participating in staff-led team-building activities, including a ropes course.

Seniors: Reflection and Vocation

The capstone of the retreat program is the Senior overnight experience at Camp Minikani. This provides critical time for students to reflect on their high school years, envision their future, and discern how they will use their God-given gifts for their vocation.

The emotional centerpiece of the Senior retreat is the "Letters of Love." Affections and affirmations are secretly collected from family members, faculty, and staff, and shared with the students. These words of support are intended to boost self-confidence, strengthen relationships, and help guide them through their final months at Messmer and beyond.

Students Share the Impact

The deep, personal impact of the retreat is clear in their own words:

"Being able to have that time with God and myself really did something to my heart. It showed me that I have a lovely support system by my side and that I can do all things through faith and God."

"During my retreat, quiet reflection time gave me space to really think about where I'm going in life and how God is a part of my journey... The emotional small group sharing... reminded me that empathy and listening to people is so important.”