The third annual True North Corps Breakaway Retreat took place this weekend, drawing the biggest crowd to date. Held at the Seakrest lodge in Newport, OR, provided by First Baptist Church of Salem, it was a weekend full of fellowship, missionaries, and fun.
Arriving on Friday at 5 p.m., the attendees unpacked and settled in time for a dinner prepared by Professor Johnson’s wife. After the students ate, the retreat opened with a speaker.
The guest missionary speakers were the Wymore’s from Wycliffe and the Bogels from Crossworld, as well as Corban’s own Paul Johnson and Jim Morris. All four gave their testimonies and then shared a short sermon that was pressing on their hearts.
“We heard some amazing stories from the missionaries, their experiences and trials and how God worked in their lives,” said sophomore Katie Wixon.
After every service time was a prayer and reflection time. True North provided World Prayer booklets, highlighting some countries that especially needed prayer for various reasons. The students would split into groups and pray together.
“I have such a heart for missions,” said Victoria Davis, when asked why she attended.
The retreat was not all about listening to missionaries, however. During free moments without speakers, students enjoyed time with each other, playing cards, watching movies, or being on the beach.
“The beach is so beautiful,” said Kelsea Banks. “I can appreciate it more on visits like this.” Some of the participants went to visit the Yaquina Head Lighthouse during their free time, while others stayed back and enjoyed the beach, playing volleyball and soccer and walking around in the surf.
The last night of the retreat concluded with a bonfire on the beach. Smores were provided, and students stayed up late into the night.
The next morning, worship was down on the beach. Professor Johnson spoke and offered communion. Afterward, people went back to the lodge and began packing. The weekend concluded with cleanup, and everyone arrived back at Corban in time for Corban Experience.