Nearly every Bellarmine student leads a busy life. Things can pile up. so much so that many forget to take time off to relax and refocus on what really matters in life— families, friends and God. This relationship with God can take a back seat at times, getting lost in the daily comings and goings of life.

Here at Bellarmine, there are many opportunities to get away and relax so that one can go back home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated: in the cabins on Encounter, the trails on Pilgrimage and underneath the cross on Magis to name a few.

Retreats answer the call to step away from the ordinary and routine and focus on what is most important. They are unforgettable experiences of the heart and soul for any person. In particular, they are needed for youth in their increasingly busy, stress-filled, young lives. Teenagers live in a world where friends, school, sports and home are no longer separated, due to the constant connection to everyone through social media. They are more connected to others, yet the distance between them and God can feel further than ever.

As a Jesuit school, the retreats at Bellarmine provide students with the opportunity to develop a better sense of their self, to build relationships with others, and to grow closer with God. Retreats offer a time away from their ordinary atmosphere and day-to-day environment. In return, teens gain concentrated time with God, allowing them to deepen their faith lives.

Aiden Christenson, senior, said, “Every retreat is a great opportunity for class unity. I personally get a lot out of them spiritually and they nourish my faith life. People should go on retreats because it is a good place to unwind and it improves self image.”

Isabela Vercillo, senior, expressed her thoughts on retreats when she said, “For me, retreats help me connect closer to God and I get more out of them than going to mass. People should go on retreats because it’s a good break from a busy schedule and it’s a chance to relax with others and connect with yourself.

Bellarmine is committed to the spiritual development of every person. Students who are not part of the Catholic faith are encouraged and supported in the development of themselves and their own faith tradition. Non-Catholic students can attend the retreats and use it as an opportunity to hear the call of God and to grow in their own faith. Many non-Catholic students enjoy their retreat experience.

When the moment presents itself, take a leap of faith and take advantage of the opportunity that God is presenting to you.