Retreat teaches CBU students how to take disciplined steps in their spiritual journey

Riverside, Calif. (March 27, 2017) – More than 80 California Baptist University students escaped to the mountains over spring break for a Challenge Discipleship Retreat that aimed to strengthen their Christian walk.

The retreat, held at Thousand Pines Christian Camp and Conference Center in Crestline, California, was organized by Discipleship Ministries in the Office of Spiritual Life.

Brian Zunigha, director of Discipleship Ministries, said the conference aimed to help students grow in their faith journey.

“We want to help students take the next step in their spiritual journey,” Zunigha said. “I think the purpose would be, wherever students are at, to help them get to the point where they’re investing in others. For some, it might be learning a little bit more about their faith, for others, you need to start investing in others right now.”

Two main speakers ministered to the students during their five-day retreat—Neil Walker, director of Christian Challenge at University of Southern California, and Steve Ross, church planter and pastor of a church in Long Beach, California. Students also had breakout sessions, time for reflection and free time to enjoy the environment.

Jessica Troyer, a Christian behavioral science senior, said the sessions were essential to Christian life. She plans to be more disciplined in prayer and memorizing Scripture.  

“The truths of the Bible can never be exhausted. I was reminded of Christ’s beauty and the incomprehensible grace He has given in letting ordinary people take part in His global plan,” Troyer said.

Lauren Hou, a liberal arts senior, said the conference gave her practical tools for her spiritual walk.

“One thing I plan to start doing is spending more time with those who are investing in me, and being more intentional in the way I care for, talk with, and spend time with those I am investing in,” Hou said.