Metanoia—Not Your Stereotypical Spring Break
Florida sun, surf, bright skies, and sandy beaches—some of the sought-after elements of college spring breaks—were a definite bonus for the 19 students on Principia’s Metanoia spring break trip. But they weren’t the focus. Instead, the emphasis of this trip comes from the Greek word metanoiein, meaning a transformative change of heart.
For resident counselor Dan Schneider (US’97, C’01), who accompanied the group, the phrase “a direct knowing of God” best describes Metanoia. “For many who go on these trips, that is precisely what happens,” he says. “Most students use the solo time to practice the lost art of stillness and profound spiritual listening. They discover that awesome things happen while spending time alone in nature with a heart truly open to God’s guidance.”
Sophomore Vanessa Ramirez-Jasso agrees. “St. George Island, right by Apalachicola in Florida, is simply beautiful,” she says. “And the group dynamic at the campsite was perfectly complete. . . . Each day was filled with so much peace to grow higher in my understanding of the role Christian Science plays in my life.”
Taking a break from their quiet time one day, the group volunteered at the nearby Franklin County Humane Society, playing with puppies and painting the newly installed cat climbing shelves and kennel support system. This was a highlight of the trip for lifelong dog lover Christina Yu, a freshman. “The shelter staff asked us to play with the puppies because they needed loving, but to me I didn’t feel I was giving them love, but receiving so much love from them!”
Late afternoons often included soccer and Frisbee while getting ready for dinner—a cooking fest with everyone pitching in. Students poured creativity into some concoctions, made large portions to share if the demand was there, and took turns with cleanup. Evenings were spent enjoying s’mores and games around the campfire, along with sharing gratitude and inspiration from their solo time.
“I was truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of an inspiring and awesome group of people,” Vanessa says. For Christina, who had never been camping or slept in a tent, the trip left her wanting more. “We had so much fun,” she exclaimed, “and I hope to go again next year!”