“Softly but strongly, let your light shine,” was the motto for the Encounter XXXIV.  On November 14,  juniors and seniors from Padua Academy began a four day journey with God.  It was a time to relieve stress, and become closer to God.  They had to find themselves again, through help from their Padua sisters, themselves, and, most importantly, their faith.

Encounter is a way for upperclassman to join together and recognize their relationship with God.  The retreat took place at St. Raphael’s Retreat House in Pennsylvania.    The girls could not bring cell phones or electronic and could not access social networking sites.  Since the girls had no access to these things, they built relationships with their sisters and with God.  Senior Ashley B. was asked about what she learned on her experience at Encounter XXXIV, and said, “My experience on Encounter taught me a lot about myself and my prayer life.  I also realized that the stresses that I have in my daily life are also felt by many other girls who I see everyday.  It is comforting to know that I am not the only one who has struggles and stressors!”  Senior Sarah C. added, “Encounter taught me that everything truly does happen for a reason and you have more in common with people than you think. We are all so blessed for every friend we have and every new friend that comes into our lives. This weekend showed me that all these wonderful friendships are filled with God’s love, which is the most comforting thing to know.”

The girls not only had a learning experience but they also had unforgettable memories with their Padua sisters.  Senior Jen B. said, “The best part of Encounter was just being able to spend the time with my Padua sisters.” Senior Amy O. added in saying, “I can’t really pinpoint my favorite part of Encounter, because the whole experience was just so amazing!” Junior Amber D. also shared her answer stating, “My best memory was on the last night every encounterite came together during mass and shared with the group how much encounter had changed their lives. I’ve never laughed so hard, cried so much, and loved a group of girls as much as I did on Encounter XXXIV.”  All of the girls had a great time going on Encounter XXXIV.  They relieved their stress, and connected to their relationship with God.  They formed even stronger friendships with their sisters, on on this experience, their light definitely shined, softly but strongly.