On September 28, the Cathedral Prep Class of 2020 went to Camp Notre Dame for their 2018 Junior Retreat. It was there that Hard as Nails Ministry held an event for them, led by Prep alumni Justin Fatica.
During the retreat, the students prayed, played games, had confession, and had the chance to open up to their classmates about their life experiences. Fatica, a Class of 1997 graduate, goes around the world spreading God’s word to schools and strengthening the friendship between classmates. His ministry focuses on opening people up to find peace with themselves, while building up their confidence.
Throughout this experience, they offer games and activities for the school or class to join in, which allow students to fight against each other to get everyone hyped up and excited. This is what happened with the junior class. They first played games and then followed up with some activities that made the class realize more about themselves. The first activity of this kind was a game that showed everyone about advantages and disadvantages. When Fatica stated something that was a perfection in a student’s life (if there is no one in your family that is an addict, for example) the student would take a step forward. This game continued for a while, and afterwards, he gave a speech about how these advantages and disadvantages don’t matter. What really matters is someone’s determination to push past them, and achieve what they want to do.
Students then had a chance to share stories about things that have happened to them and how they have affected their lives in a positive or negative light. Many students shared their stories, which were all very enlightening. There was a short break, then a prayer, and it was over. It was a great time, and Hard as Nails Ministry did an excellent job. 
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