Spring Retreat
Spring Retreat 2023
ESTES, Colo. – On the weekend of February 24th through the 26th, around 200 students gathered at the YMCA of the Rockies to worship, learn, rest, and explore. CB Barthlow, head paster of Beacon church in Denver, spoke to students about fighting doubt, staying the course with God, and echoing hope, according to the theme of the weekend, Anchored.
“[The speaker] was very intentional in his sessions with us, and I genuinely felt challenged,” Sophia S., a sophomore transfer student said.
The messages were simple, yet profound. In a world filled with information, there is only one true guide. Students were taught that everyone is supposed to ask God questions and search the Bible for answers. By asking questions, we strive to become more obedient, and become a beacon of hope for others.
“The messages really spoke to me, and I appreciated the simple reminders that we often forget about God, His character, and His promises,” said Vendala G., a sophomore at CCU.
One of the most impactful parts of the retreat was the worship. Each session began and ended with worship, with an extra hour of music offered after. There was beauty and anguish in the voices of students crying out to the Lord. As the music faded, a glimpse of heaven was heard in the choir of voices praising God. Students were moved by the Spirit to dance, cry, and pray during this beautiful feat of worship.
In the closing message, Barthlow spoke of the hopelessness of the world. Yet, we trust in the everlasting King who provides eternal life. Because of this, we are called to echo that hope into the world. This message seemed timely, considering the revivals breaking out at college campuses across the nation.
“It was clear that the Holy Spirit was there and moving,” said sophomore student Emma R.
This free weekend included activities such as escape rooms, ice skating, hiking, roller skating, and more for students to explore. The stress of exams, housing choices, and homework was put away for a few days of fun, learning, and worship. Amazing things happen when believers band together for the Lord.
