Troop members that attended the scout retreat found out that it can be fun learning religion and growing closer to God. The "Here Come the Saints" theme was evident throughout the retreat as scouts learned about the lives of several Saints. Our weekend began with an exciting and well rounded campfire. Songs were sung and a few skits played out. The "If I weren't a Boy Scout..." skit featured all the members of the audience playing their part. After that the troop headed back to their campsite for some shuteye.

When morning came, Reveille sounded to signal the start of a very busy day. As a matter of fact you might say the Bugle was sounding all day to gather the troops, show respect to the flag, signal the beginning and ending of sessions, church call and taps. All troops hustled to complete their breakfast and head over to morning colors. Once completed everyone assembled in Lake Lodge for a great talk from Fr. Bob. Remember, it takes only one to be a leader and with God all things are possible. The sessions on the Saints were awesome. There was a brief life history on each Saint followed by discussion and then an interesting activity. Patrols moved around to different stations all during the day and were able to interact with everyone in camp. Lunch came and went with three more sessions in the afternoon. We then participated in campwide activities making rosaries, playing cards, scrabble, soccer, volleyball, etc.

At supper time we ate spaghetti and found a little time to relax. With supper completed we were called to evening colors and a beautiful mass at the island chapel. It was neat attending mass in the outdoors with lanterns lighting the area and birds in the background. After mass we watched Joan of Arc on the big screen complete with popcorn and drink. It was a long full day, but very enjoyable to be a part of. We took our time packing up the next day and then jumped in the cars for the trip back home. Participating in the 2004 DCCS Retreat were Alex, DJ, Kevin, Matt K., Matt M., Steven, Mr. Dzurnak, Mr. Makowski, and Mr. and Mrs. Mayher.

Scout Retreat Photo Album

Trip Plan for Scout Retreat

Date and Time of Departure: Friday, October 8th, 6:00pm - Old Church

Purpose: To grow in faith and enjoy camping in the fall weather.

Location: Firelands Scout Reservation, Wakeman, Ohio

Cost: $15.00 per scout - due at October 5th troop meeting.

Uniform: Dress for the weather, wear troop or camp T-shirt if it is warm enough. Class A uniform is required after dinner for evening colors, and mass.

Estimated Time of Return: Sunday, September 10th, between 10:00 and 10:30am - Old Church

The Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting (DCCS) is proud to host this year's Scout Retreat for Boy Scout Troops and Venture Crews. This is a great opportunity for all youth and adults to demonstrate their Duty to God by attending the event. The retreat theme is "Here Come the Saints". On Saturday each unit will split into patrol size groups and attend a number of sessions. The first session will be presented by a guest speaker to provide everyone with a clearer understanding of Sainthood. All other sessions will focus on the lives of individual Saints.

Be prepared to have a lot of fun too. The festivities start with a short opening campfire on Friday night featuring songs and a few skits. The sessions on Saturday will include entertaining activities along with group discussion. Later in the afternoon everyone will get together to join in Campwide Games. The evening will be concluded with Mass followed by Movie Night with popcorn and drink.

We are fortunate to have the Assumption Youth Ministry group, AYM High, join DCCS in all retreat sessions and activities. The group is sponsored by Assumption Church located in Broadview Heights, OH. These high school age young men and women will lend their experience running youth renewals and retreats. Their faith and dedication are certain to add a high degree of excitement to our retreat.

Weekend Schedule