Knightly News

Imagine three lavish buffet meals each day featuring exceptional food and endless opportunities to immerse oneself in God’s breathtaking creation. There are invaluable leadership lessons, moments of barefoot mindfulness, the sacred celebration of the Eucharist, and exhilarating activities that push you out of your comfort zone—like bridge repelling, rock wall climbing, ziplining, and leaping off a telephone pole. While these experiences may seem like a carefully crafted spiritual renewal retreat for the 8th-grade Knights, this is their much-anticipated annual trip to Mo-Ranch!

On a dark and early Sunday morning, we set off, with 80 eager students and 15 dedicated educators loading onto the bus for the memorable ten-hour journey to Hunt, Texas. The bus was excitedly buzzing as students indulged in various snacks. One adventurous soul decided to sample every unusual snack imaginable. After a few taste tests, we concluded that sticking with traditional favorites was a much safer bet. Another student arrived equipped with an extraordinarily insulated backpack cooler, brimming with every conceivable snack. Movies played in the background, children dozed off peacefully, laughter echoed throughout the bus, and from time to time, a spirited song broke out from a rowdy group of friends. Yet, the chorus of “sit down,” “are we there yet?”, “how much longer?” and “please go back to your seat” consistently hovered over our travels, emanating from both students and weary teachers alike.

As we arrived just as the sun began to set, we enjoyed a hearty meal, unpacked our belongings, and eagerly prepared for the exhilarating days ahead. 

Monday commenced with students being placed into their preassigned groups, artfully curated by their thoughtful chaperones. Each group consisted of around ten students, ensuring that everyone was paired with at least one friend while still encouraging them to connect with others they might have yet to interact with as much, fostering new friendships along the way.

These small groups became their companions as they navigated through daily rotations. Each rotation was guided by a knowledgeable Mo-Ranch counselor or a faculty member, ensuring that our Episcopal identity remained at the forefront of this incredible experience.

Throughout the day, students engaged in low-ropes activities, skillfully strategizing to get their entire group across the imaginary “lava” or “chocolate river” without falling in. They partnered up to zipline through the majestic trees, conquering their fears as they navigated many challenging high-rope elements. The joy of canoeing, racing down an enormous water slide, and catching various types of water life on the Guadalupe River added to their treasure trove of memories.

Our devoted faculty also led exciting “Minute to Win It” games—imagine picking up pieces of penne pasta using only spaghetti held in your mouth! They also conducted an Episcopal School-themed “Escape Room” activity, where my honorary team emerged victorious, completing the challenge in a mere 13 minutes! 

Many students' highlights included celebrating the Eucharist at the Chapel on the Hill, a stunning outdoor amphitheater, as the sun dipped below the horizon. The students enjoyed it so much that they requested it be held for more than one night.

Each meal was blessed by students volunteering to lead the prayers, and every evening was enriched by a devotion presented by one of our chaperones. A recurring theme emerged from these reflections, drawing inspiration from 1st Corinthians: “We are all one body but many parts.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulated who we are as an 8th-grade class, as a middle school, and as the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge. For our collective body to function harmoniously, we must work together—supporting and encouraging one another. This was beautifully demonstrated throughout our time together. Though not everyone participated in every activity physically, everyone rallied to support and encourage their peers through moments of nerves or tears.

The final night was a memorable celebration culminating in a costumed party with S’mores and an optional haunted house, graciously hosted by the Mo-Ranch community.

As we reflect on this incredible journey to Mo-Ranch, it's clear that the experiences we shared transcended mere adventure; they forged lasting bonds and instilled a sense of community and belonging within our 8th-grade class (and faculty). The laughter, challenges, and moments of introspection have woven a rich tapestry of memories that we will carry with us long after we return. This trip has been a powerful reminder of our interconnectedness as we embraced the diverse gifts each member brought to the group. Together, we navigated the joys and uncertainties of this experience, embodying the spirit of support and love that defines our Episcopal School. With hearts full of gratitude and minds open to new possibilities, we return as classmates and a united family, ready to face the next chapter of our journey together.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2025-2026 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.