Fifth Grade Retreat: Opening Our Hearts Like St. John Paul II

Today our fifth graders spent a special day on retreat learning all about St. John Paul II, whose feast day we celebrated just yesterday. Students explored his life of faith, courage, and love, and talked about what it means to follow his example in their own lives.

St. John Paul II famously said, “Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ.” Our students reflected on those words and on how they can open their hearts to God and to others through kindness, prayer, and service, just as he did.

The retreat ended with Eucharistic Adoration alongside their parents, a beautiful moment of families praying together in the presence of Jesus. Seeing our students and parents side by side in prayer was a powerful reminder that faith grows strongest when we share it as a family.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this retreat so meaningful. At St. Agnes Catholic Academy, moments like this help our students grow in faith, rooted in Christ and ready to share His love with the world.