On Sept. 20 and 21st the Student Ministry Leadership Team hosted one of John Brown University’s most talked about events since the beginning of the 2024 fall semester. Breakaway has been around JBU for a long time, and it aims to bring students from all backgrounds, places and ages closer to God in the middle of the chaos that the beginning of classes can cause.
JBU students found themselves enjoying different activities at New Life Ranch on Friday and Saturday. Everyone had a wide range of activities they could take part in upon arriving at New Life Ranch. While some preferred the tranquility and conversations eating S’mores bring, others went to the daring zip line or on night hikes that led to a sky overflowing with twinkling stars and a visible moon.
Freshman Haeun Choi from South Korea said “It brought me back all the memories from when I was young and attended camps. It made me feel at home.”
In addition to all the amusement provided, students attended different sessions, took part in worship and joined small groups for more in-depth conversations about the retreat and what God was revealing to each of them through the speaker.
“Our unchanging God is the anchor for our souls, bringing security and certainty through the trials of life, and we are called to keep the faith, hold to hope and patiently persevere,” Speaker Anne Tohme said.
Tohme, a former JBU student in the 90s, had the privilege to speak at Breakaway. She brought a message of hope, patience and faith using the story of Abraham and Psalm 102 to encourage students even when they find themselves in the midst of trial because God is unchanging and a promise keeper.
Lucía Arjona, a sophomore Elementary Education major shared her experience as her first time being part of the planning team as a chaplin intern. “Breakaway was an amazing time to disconnect our busy schedules and reconnect with God, not only that but we also connected with new people and had great conversations about what God wants to accomplish in our lives.”
Breakaway might be over, but God is still working through those who experienced His power during the weekend and keep witnessing to others on campus.
Photo courtesy of Daniela Gomez