On January 22 and 23, Mount Carmel Academy sophomores took part in two meaningful days focused on faith, reflection, and service. The class was divided in half, with one group participating in Sophomore Service Day while the other attended the Sophomore Retreat. The groups then switched the following day so that all students experienced both.

During Service Day, students learned about Mrs. Merida's sister Becky, whose legacy of service inspired the day’s activities. They prayed the Rosary together, spent time in adoration, and heard a reflection from Sr. Beth. In small groups, students rotated through hands-on service projects including making period product kits, stuffing St. Joseph altars, and assembling rosaries. The period product kits will be distributed to Little Free Pantries around the city, the St. Joseph altar items will be used for MCA's St. Joseph Altar, and the rosaries will be donated.

The Sophomore Retreat was centered on the theme “As strangers we come, as sisters we go.” Students spent the day building community, reflecting on their faith, and growing closer as a class. The retreat included icebreakers, small-group discussions, a student talk, opportunities for Confession and Adoration, bracelet-making and sharing, and concluded with Mass and final reflections.

Together, these two days gave sophomores time to step away from their regular routine, deepen their relationships with God and with one another, and reflect on what it means to live out their faith through both prayer and service.