The Sophomore Ignite retreat took place Friday, February 6 to Saturday, February 7, on the ILS campus, giving students an opportunity to step away from their daily routines. As a Catholic retreat, Ignite encouraged sophomores to disconnect from their phones and focus of faith, reflection, and building stronger relationships with one another. Throughout the weekend, students participated in several different activities designed to strengthen personal growth and community bonding. For many, Ignite became a meaningful experience that left a lasting impact.

One of the most important parts of this experience was being without phones. Without technology, students were able to be more present and truly talk to one another. Conversations felt more real, and students had to reflect on themselves and their faith without distractions. The peaceful environment helped many students relax and focus on what mattered the most.

Sophomore Florencia Lopez shared how meaningful this time away felt for her.

“It felt amazing to disconnect from everything and have time to build a stronger relationship with God,” she said.

The retreat also included several faith-based activities that encouraged reflection and prayer. One of the most impactful moments for many was the time spent in adoration, which gave them a quiet time to pray and think. Students also listened to testimonies from leaders in the upper grades who shared their personal faith journeys. These talks helped sophomores feel understood and connect through shared experiences.

Sophomore Sofie Dourado described adoration as a powerful moment during the retreat.

“Adoration healed something in me that I didn’t realize I needed and made me feel at peace,” she said, adding that being with friends made the experience even better.