On Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011 entire student body spent quality time with the Lord in a lovely corner of the world, near a lake surrounded by trees quickly turning out their vibrant fall colours. For this annual Day of Recollection, students set aside schoolwork and other occupations of the busy Academy life, to allow for reflection and prayer. The day began with short addresses from the President and the Dean of Students, followed by Mass, lunch, and then an inspiring talk from the Academy's Chaplain, Fr. Paul Burchat of Madonna House. He asked this important question: "Do we as Christians know how to take care of ourselves spiritually?"

Afterward, Fr. Paul and OLSWA's new Associate Chaplain, the much-loved Fr. Joseph Hattie, OMI, made themselves available for confessions all afternoon while students and staff commenced the "great silence" in which they strolled about the property or knelt before the Blessed Sacrament in quiet reflection. During the afternoon, Dr. Timothy Gray, the respected Biblical scholar from Denver, Colorado, delivered an address to the congregation about the Word of God. His passion for Scripture was plainly visible and his speech gave his listeners lots to think about as they continued the afternoon in silence. Just before supper, everyone reconvened for Vespers and Benediction. The evening was spent enjoying Frisbee, a bonfire and songs, and even some lake-swimming by the more adventurous. The Academy returned home late that night, spiritually, mentally, and physically refreshed.