Now accepting Retreat Team Leader Application for 2007-2008!

Contact Campus Ministry Retreat Director:
Fr. Chris Drennen, OSA
610-519-5177

Campus Ministry Retreats provide opportunities for students from all faith backgrounds to reflect on their spiritual values, step back from their regular routine, hear the faith stories of fellow students, and understand the catholic values of the university. Presently there are three types of retreats offered on a regular basis.

The Freshmen Escape is held 6 times a year and has recently been a sell out of 40 plus students for each weekend retreat. It is led by the Campus Ministry Interns, as well as student leaders who apply for leadership positions. Retreats are held at retreat houses and conference centers within a few hours drive of campus.

The Search Retreat is for all students who seek a an awakening of spirituality and a chance to know themselves and their relationships with others on a deeper level. Search is led by student leaders who spend weeks of preparation forming a team and sharing the spiritual and emotional values that help the retreatants develop as persons. There currently are 3 Search retreats a year.

The third general type of retreat is an open retreat for all students who are seeking a getaway from campus and a chance to reflect on where they are in their personal lives. These retreats are led by members of the Retreat Council, and other students, under the direction of the Campus Minister in charge of retreats. These retreats have various themes and often include unique active experiences to promote reflection (Camping and Canoeing, Poconos, Beach Retreats, and Adventure/workout Retreats). There are usually 5-6 Open retreats a year.

Currently, there are two other retreats in development. One is a retreat for Senior Class members as they prepare to graduate and leave the university community. The first one is scheduled for the Poconos in January, 2008. The newest program in planning is an “Encounter” style retreat, based on “cursillo” models and in specifically Christ centered and promotes the encounter with Jesus Christ as the core of Christian life. The first encounter style retreat is scheduled for April, 2008. It is hoped that the encounter will be held 2 times a year.

In addition, the retreat program also directs the very successful Connections Retreat, a 4 day summer program for incoming new students. It is held on campus, usually in July. It includes connections to university life, service programs, campus ministry activities, and the Philadelphia area. It is limited to 100 new students and has been sold out recently. It is led by upperclassmen who lead talks, activities and small groups.