By Vinci Halbrook-Paterson
Want to get away?
Want to spend time in nature?
Need some quiet reflection time?
Want to reflect on where God is in the midst of your life?
Want to play, pray, share and dialoge with others about faith?
If you answered yes any of the above, or if you are curious ... read on.
I try to begin my preparation for an upcoming retreat or program by reviewing the evaluations from the previous year. This helps me to see what students were seeking, and to see what they actually came away with from the retreat experience. This Fall, we have three great retreat opportunities. The Encounter (open to freshman - juniors) is already full. Two other retreats coming up still have space available. So, who needs a retreat?
One retreat opportunity is a 24-hour silent retreat. This year we will travel to Mt. Angel, Oregon to join the Benedictine Sisters for supper, Vespers (prayer) and Silence. On Saturday, we will participate in a presentation and be given tools to enhance our silent prayer and contemplation.
We depart on Friday, Oct. 30 at 3:30 p.m. and return to campus by 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31. So, what have students said about the Silent Retreat?
"Wow, it was a great challenge to be quiet and still for more than just a few minutes."
"It helped me to sit outside in nature to feel surrounded by God's goodness."
"It was great to slow down and just be for a while."
This retreat is open to men and women. We will take eight to 12 students.
The Senior Encounter takes place Nov. 6-8 in Mt. Angel Oregon (Father Bernard Youth Center). Under the wisdom and guidance of Josh Noem and some young alum a couple of years ago, this retreat has blossomed into a greatly appreciated opportunity for seniors to reflect on their time and UP, and to discern where God is leading them beyond The Bluff.
Between 60 and 80 Seniors attend this retreat each year. This year we have room for at least 80. Some comments from past participants:
"Hearing from recent Alums, and being able to ask questions about the transition from College was great."
"What a group we are! Many of these guys I met my freshman year. It was nice to have time set aside to be together."
"The campfire and the free time was enriching too."
So do you need a retreat? Join us.
Applications are available online at www.up.edu/campusministry or in the Chapel of Christ the Teacher or the Pilot House office. Registration deadline for both of these retreats is Monday Oct. 26. For questions, contact paterson@up.edu or ext. 7889.
Vinci Halbrook-Paterson is the assistant director for faith formation at Campus Ministry
