From Lauren

This year was my fourth time at One Life, so I figured I knew what to expect. Every single year has been unforgettable, but this year honestly can't compare. I NEVER could have imagined that it would have such an impact on my life. Before going on this retreat, I felt that I was slowly drifting away from God. I felt close with him at church (DeerGrove) and youth group, but when I wasn't at one of those places, I felt disconnected and frustrated. Every single moment...car rides, worship, skiing, and just hanging out, i will never forget. The worship services changed my life. The messages that Jeff said connected so well with what I was feeling, and have helped me through life back at home. During one of the services, there was a station where you could pray and they would lay a cross on you and slowly lift it off...that was one of the most powerful moments of my life. Not only experiencing it myself, but watching others as the cross was lifted off their back...I will never forget their faces. One of my favorite memories was after the service ended, we were all invited to stay after and continue worshiping. I remember sitting with my hands out, crying so hard because i felt God's love stronger than I ever have. I opened my eyes, and saw EVERY SINGLE PERSON with their hands raised, crying, even on their knees. It was absolutely breath taking.