On a beautiful autumn afternoon, close to 50 college students from across the diocese gathered for what was described as “a midterm for spiritual reflection.” Students from Monmouth University’s Catholic Centre, West Long Branch, joined their counterparts from The College of New Jersey, Ewing, who hosted their annual fall retreat in St. James Parish, Pennington.

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“It gives them a chance to really pause and reflect,” said Father Bill Lago, campus minister at TCNJ, who stressed the importance of maintaining both academics and faith while in college.

The retreat, which included a Mass celebrated by Father Lago, dinner, and several discussions and activities, centered on the theme, “The Privilege of Discipleship.”

The daylong program kicked off with a visit from Coadjutor Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., who shared stories from his time at The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C., where he previously served as president.

“I saw such tremendous good being accomplished by campus ministry,” said Bishop O’Connell. “The students there are not much different than many of you.”

Bishop O’Connell opened the floor for questions from those gathered, which ranged from how the faith can be kept alive in trying times to vocations.

“I’m worried that for some reason... our faith is not being handed on,” he said, though adding his hope that individuals like those gathered would help to turn the trend around.

“A lot of that is going to depend on you,” he explained.

Bishop O’Connell also spoke about how maintaining an active faith life does not preclude Catholics from having fun, and enjoying their lives.

“You don’t have to walk around with your hands folded all the time to be a Catholic,” he said. “Religion and faith are just a part of life, and an important part of life.”

Mike Herrera, junior math and secondary education major at TCNJ, was honored that the bishop attended the retreat. “For him to come out and talk to us, that shows how much he wants us to be involved,” he said.

”That’s real dedication.”

A recurring feature throughout the day was a variety of segments from “The Catholic View,” a talkshow format that guided discussion and introduced topics for small group activities. Referring to the retreat’s theme, the show’s “guests” reflected on the concept of discipleship.

“Discipleship to me is making a conscious decision,” said Nick Filippis. “We really do need grace to say ‘yes’ and follow Jesus’ call.”

Kim Feliciano, co-vice president of retreats for the TCNJ ministry, concurred with Filippis, adding her appreciation for the fact that Catholics can attend Mass or visit a church anywhere in the world and instantly belong. “We can bring Jesus into everyday situations and conversations,” she added. Small group discussions also focused on similar topics, and participants expressed pride in their faith and the privilege they have to be a part of it.

Each group compiled five main reasons why they were proud to be Catholic, and together all participants put together their “top 10” privileges of discipleship. Among those topping the list were celebration of the Eucharist, the community of the Church and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

“It’s an empowering experience,” said Peter Szafranski, a sophomore history major at TCNJ. “It’s a learning experience; it’s nice to know that there are other people who are just like you.”

Mark Meyer, sophomore business major at Monmouth University, was attending for the first time. “I’ve never been to a retreat before, and I wanted to share my faith with other students,” he said.

His thoughts were echoed by classmate Sarah Opatovsky, a senior marine biology major. “I want(ed) to meet new people who share my beliefs and to experience a small group setting,” she said.

The day concluded with meditation and adoration exercises led by Father Lago, as well as a final installment of the talk show.

Christy Amato, vice president of service for the TCNJ ministry and a junior nursing major, served as the host for “The Catholic View.”

“I think it’s definitely a good opportunity for students to come together and share their faith with each other,” she said of the retreat. “This can be the seed that helps their faith grow further.”