From the Fall 2024 Lionheart Newsletter, authored by Jennifer Adema
Ellie Menning is a graduating senior who has attended ICS since PreK. This year was her last year attending the high school retreat at Big Canyon Ranch (BCR). Reflecting on her experiences there, she goes back to 8th grade and remembers the anticipation of moving up to high school and participating in the retreat at the beginning of the school year. Ellie has played volleyball for many years and had connections to some high school girls through athletics prior to starting 9th grade. However, during the retreat, Ellie and the other freshmen were more easily able to connect to the greater high school community.
The energy at BCR is welcoming, as the older high school students are genuinely excited for the freshmen to experience the high school retreat. As Ellie progressed through high school, her involvement in planning the retreat increased. Ellie and her friends worked to continue traditions such as the dance, games, “girl talk” and making sure the culture of hospitality and excitement carries on.
The worship time at the retreat sticks out to Ellie, as well as the varied speakers over the years. She says that there are barriers that fall down and an atmosphere of freedom is felt that helps the students connect with God more through worship.
The friendships and familiarity that form over the retreat at BCR continue throughout the school year. Big Canyon Ranch starts the dynamic of eating lunch outside and being able to talk to anyone from any grade. Part of the uniqueness of the ICS community is that strong relationships are built and solidified through shared experiences beyond the classrooms.
ICS dad and pastor at The Rock Church, Steele Croswhite, was this year’s speaker and worship leader. Steele spoke three times on the realities of Christ and considered it an awesome opportunity to speak to the next generation about Jesus.
