Article by Julia Hasbrouck, Class of 2015
Over the weekend of November 22-24, the Hiking Club went on their annual retreat to Founder’s Hollow, the Marianist Brothers’ residence in upstate New York. We were taken by the club’s moderators, Mr. Moran, Mr. Harnisch, and Mrs. Harnisch, as well as guest moderator Brother Dickon. Upon our arrival at the retreat house Friday night, we were greeted by Fr. Philip and Brother Dermot. After a peaceful evening prayer in the chapel that overlooks the Founder’s property, we headed into the dining room and enjoyed a home-cooked meal by Brother Dermot. The group all took part in the cleanup process, some kids in the dish room, some in the dining room, and some in the kitchen. For the rest of the night, we departed into our rooms, as we would need a good night’s sleep for the big hike in the morning.
The following morning was filled with prayer and breakfast before we split into two groups for the hike: one group would take a more rigorous trail with Mr. Moran and Brother Dickon, and the second group would take a less strenuous trail with Mr. and Mrs. Harnisch. Both hikes were about eight miles and contained challenging uphill sections. By the end of the trails, both groups left feeling accomplished and tired, to say the least. After we enjoyed some rest back at Founder’s Hollow, the group celebrated with a delicious taco meal, icebox cake, s’mores by the bonfire, and stargazing.
Before making our way back to Long Island on Sunday morning, we attended Mass with Fr. Philip, ate a quick breakfast, and, with the entire team’s effort, cleaned the retreat house to make it seem like we were never there.
The entire weekend was a blast from start to finish. Learning how to work with others, either in cleaning or cooking, and making new friends was something that I especially benefitted from. I had a wonderful time and can’t wait for the next hiking club adventure!
