![From multiple institutions, but with a single focus, scores of students retreat to a scenic campground.](//www.pct.edu/files/news/images/2017/11/DSC_0527_PCTo-1-150x150.jpg)
![Gathering in worship to start the day](//www.pct.edu/files/news/images/2017/11/DSC_0390-2_PCTo-150x150.jpg)
![Communing with nature at the peak of autumn are (from left) alumnus and Cru intern Caleb G. Schirmer; Penn College students Jacob C. Snyder and Timothy L. Pegg; and, from Liberty University, Todd Robatin.](//www.pct.edu/files/news/images/2017/11/DSC_0728_PCTo-e1511312171976-150x150.jpg)
![Penn College's Michael J. Schaeffer, of Cogan Station, joins students from other colleges in a challenge to build the tallest free-standing balloon tower.](//www.pct.edu/files/news/images/2017/11/DSC_0500_PCTo-150x150.jpg)
![Competitors gather in a large field in preparation for the next event.](//www.pct.edu/files/news/images/2017/11/DSC_0676_PCTo-150x150.jpg)
Nearly 100 students from Penn College and a number of other institutions gathered for this month's Cru Susquehanna Valley fall retreat at Mountain View Bible Camp in Danville. Students experienced a refreshingly fun time through team-building exercises, notably called “Crunger Games" – a spinoff from "The Hunger Games" – outdoor activities and worship sessions, among other pursuits. Students also enjoyed fellowship over meals generously served by camp staff. Two first-time attendees left with something greater than themselves, as related by Caleb B. Schirmer, in his second year as a campus field ministry intern for Cru. “I was nervous about going, I had never done a retreat before, but the moment that I got there, I felt so welcomed!" one student said. "There was an immense amount of love in the air during the whole weekend and I left with such a renewed sense of spirit and purpose. It wasn't just life-changing for me, it was soul-changing.” Another, a Penn College student, said, “I went to fall retreat with the intention of getting closer with a community that is open-hearted and supportive. When I left, I had received something far more than that. It was a great growing experience and an amazing way to get connected with a community of lovely, crazy and fun people!"
Photos by Rachel A. Eirmann, student photographer