Retreats are a central spiritual experience in the life of a Saint Ignatius student. This is a privileged time to reflect on one's life journey and consider how God is continually inviting us into a deeper relationship.
Over four years, all students will have the opportunity to focus on developing their relationship with God through participating in Freshman Spirit Day, a Sophomore prayer group, and making a retreat during Junior and Senior year.
Retreat Options
A variety of retreat options are available to students of all four years. Upperclassmen are required to make one overnight retreat, usually Kairos or Wilderness. Seniors are invited to apply for the opportunity to lead these retreats.
- Kairos: The most popular overnight retreat, this four-day, three-night experience takes students to the Jesuit Retreat House in Parma to enjoy “God’s time.” Each day asks a question about the student’s relationship with Jesus and seeks to help students begin answering those questions. Saint Ignatius has run more than 200 Kairos retreats. Open to: Juniors and Seniors.
- Wilderness: In Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest students discover God in creation and in community with each other. No hiking or camping experience is required, but students should be ready for a “rugged” outing during the four-day, three-night trip. Most gear is provided, and retreatants must attend two orientation meetings before the trip. Open to: Juniors and Seniors.
- Emmaus Retreat: A hiking retreat throughout the Cuyahoga Valley, the Emmaus retreat is inspired by the story of Jesus meeting the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. Open to: Juniors and Seniors.
- Jesuit Life Retreat: Student participants travel to Chicago to learn and experience more about what life as a Jesuit is like. An interest in Jesuit life or the priesthood is not required, but students with these interests are encouraged to apply. Open to: Juniors and Seniors.