HHCA Middle School students kicked off the 2024-2025 school year - and made lots of lasting memories - on HHCA's Middle School Retreat 2024 at Epworth by the Sea on St. Simon's Island, GA. Eighth-grade students traveled to Epworth by the Sea on Wednesday, August 28, for a two-night retreat, while sixth and seventh graders joined the fun on Thursday morning, August 29. The entire Middle School community returned to HHCA together on August 30, having forged stronger bonds and shared unforgettable experiences.

This longstanding HHCA tradition gives students a special time away from campus for fun activities, crazy competitions and class bonding, as well as time for personal and spiritual growth.

During the retreat, students met together in small groups for Bible study and had personal devotional time. They also gathered for large group sessions with guest speaker Zach Waters, a Lowcountry native and a local area FCA leader, and a time of worship led by HHCA's Upper School Worship Team. 

In addition to experiencing time set aside for spiritual and personal growth, for the 170+ Middle School students at the 2024 Retreat, it was also a great opportunity to get to know classmates, peers, and mentors while enjoying a lineup of activities designed for maximum fun. Indoor and outdoor fun zones featured several inflatables, including Joust, Bungee Run, Toxic Meltdown, and an obstacle course. Students also enjoyed pool time and team activities on the field. An art room filled with craft supplies allowed students to get creative, and to create their team mascot for the Lip Sync battle. Evening activities included Capture the Flag and the Lip Sync Dance Showcase, which students worked on with their teams prior to retreat. 

Middle School Retreat is one of the most important things we do as a school, and it sets the tone for the entire school year - both spiritually and relationally. Retreat allows students to form relationships with their mentors outside of the classroom setting - in a deeper way than they ever could at school. As for the fun, the Lip Sync Battle, Capture the Flag, and a host of other fun activities and games, are just as much fun for the mentors (who are the judges) as they are for students. And, of course, the late-night pizza is a welcome treat for winners and judges! 

- Jay Scarbro, HHCA Middle School Principal

When alumni return to HHCA after graduation, they often share that the annual retreats were among the highlights of their time at HHCA. Again this year, we are thankful for this time together and pray that the Lord will nurture the friendships formed and continue the work He began in the hearts of our students during the retreat.