Pali Welcomes 7th and 8th grade RCS Students

By Kaitlyn C, Nicole E. and Rebecca P.

7th and 8th grade RCMS students escape the “torture” and “drudgery” of school to head to the mountains. On August the 29, 2019 the 7th and 8th graders went to Pali Institute. “We have a retreat to build community in our school,” RCMS’s principal, Mr. Spear said. The place that we went this year is different than last year.

“The reason we switched camps was to accommodate our growing school,” said Mr. Spear.

Pali Institute is nestled among the trees in Runnings Springs, California, at about 6,000 feet. There were many winding roads to get up there, but It was worth it. “I feel much closer to God when I’m up there,” 8th grader Matthew D. said.

There were activities such as team building and a ropes course. 8th graders got to enjoy a spectacular zip-lining experience. 7th grader Sophia H. said, “My favorite activity was the activities group because of the games. My favorite game was the one when we have to try to retrieve the ball without our counselor knowing who retrieved it.” There was a field to play on, a basketball court, several Gaga Ball pits, and many other amenities to enjoy on your free time. The cabins were spacious with three rooms and a bathroom in each room.

The food that Pali provided was delicious too. Many 8th graders said that the food was much better than the place they went last year for the retreat. They had a different style of food each time. Lunch on Thursday was some delicious Asian food, while that night was pizza night! Whether you were vegetarian, lactose intolerant, or just a picky eater, they always had something for you.

“My favorite part of the retreat was leading worship,” 6th and 7th grade teacher and worship leader, Mr. Molina said. The chapel on Thursday night touched a lot of people. Students and teachers hope that this will mean that our middle school experience will be changed.