Throwback Thursday! What Ocean City retreat meant to past members.

So Ocean City weekend is coming up and we can take a quick look at what this weekend has meant to past members of youth group! The year after their name is when they graduated.

"The OC retreat was always something that got me through the first few weeks of school. It was great fellowship with other youth and the morning worship on the beach is awesome. It's definitely something to look forward to!" - Emily Saunders 2013

"My freshman year I was doubting the existence of God. While we were having our last session on the beach the leaders told to scatter around for some silent time and devotions. So I stood close to the water praying to God asking for Him to show Himself. As I was praying I was hit by a wave, which I believed to be a sign from God which encouraged me in my faith in God" - Tyler DeMuro 2014 

"The OC retreat was always something really fun and refreshing to look forward to at the beginning of a long school year. One of my favorite memories was when a hurricane came through during the retreat. That Friday night the boardwalk was deserted and several of us just ran and slid on the wet board, using our shirts as sails. I also remember the streets flooded so Mike tried to surf on a boogie board! The scavenger hunt and Sunday morning worship on the beach were always highlights of the retreat. Always tons of fun and a great time to grow closer to God with friends" - Josh Saunders 2010 

"The Ocean City retreat was something I looked forward to every year. It was really fun to hangout with Christian friends, worship on the beach and grow closer to the Lord. Long lasting friendships and memories were made there" - Alyssa Zepp 2013

"The ocean city retreat was always something to look forward too at the end of summer. The beginning of school was always somewhat of a stressor for me so to be able to get away for a few days and spend time with Christian friends helped me stay on the right track for the rest of the school year. This was especially true as a freshman going into Winslow highschool. The retreat gave me a chance to strengthen my relationship with a group of church friends who also happened to go to school with me. Besides that though, It's an awesome time which makes for so many great memories on the board walk and in the boys sleep area before shut-eye." - Danny Saunders 2009

"The Ocean City Retreat was so special to me because I was able to meet with God in a new atmosphere, among his beautiful creation, and experience new things in my walk with Him. Not only did my relationship with God grow stronger, but also did my bond with my brothers and sisters in Christ. I absolutely loved the intimacy of worshiping together in a small setting and getting to know myself as a daughter of Christ a little more each day." - Emily Kelly 2013

 This photo is from 2011 and features Emily Saunders, Alyssa Zepp, Emily Kelly and Tyler DeMuro all whose experiences you read about above! Seems like worship on the beach is a big hit and it also seems that the Saunders enjoy talking about their experience. This OC trip will be my first experience too so I am excited! I will hopefully see you Friday!