Retreats & Seminars
Retreat Programs
The SJC retreat program is designed to have four distinct levels, which correspond to the changes in the students’ lives as well as our Lasallian heritage. Emphasis is placed on these retreats, because they help the students grow in their relationship with God, self, and others over their high school career. While there is a cost per retreat, monetary issues will never prohibit a student’s participation.
Freshman Retreat: Our Five Lasallian Core Principles
The focus of the freshman retreat is to build upon the students’ first semester experiences. Each student will have the opportunity to grow in their class community and learn what it means to be Lasallian. Through activity-based reflection, students will unpack our five Lasallian Core Principles: Faith in the Presence of God, Respect for All People, Quality Education, Inclusive Community, and Concern for the Poor and Social Justice.
Junior Retreat: Meditations of De La Salle
On this overnight retreat, juniors focus on the way their Lasallian education has impacted their lives thus far. Upon hearing personal reflections from their peer ministers, they are challenged to ask themselves, “How can I respond to the quality education I have received over the past three years and show my gratitude for those who have guided me along the way?” Often described as fun and reflective, the junior retreat provides students with time away from their daily responsibilities to make even deeper connections to their peers.
Sophomore Retreat: Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve
As the journey at St. John’s continues, students take a day away from campus on sophomore retreat to focus on our Lasallian motto of “Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve.” While allotted the time to discern their unique call to care for others, sophomores also take part of the day volunteering alongside one another, building unity within the class while serving a greater purpose.
Senior Retreat: Kairos
Kairos provides a unique capstone experience for seniors, immersing themselves in “God’s time.” This four-day, transformative retreat allows the students to see God, themselves, their peers, teachers, and loved ones in a new light. Student talks and small group reflections serve as the backbone of this retreat, giving way to new friendships, new perspectives, and a deeper appreciation for their faith. The Kairos retreat continues to be a senior highlight each year.
Seminar Programs
These seminars are a response to the concerns of St. John's faculty and the evident needs of our student body. They are meant to be structured, but “living” programs that provide time and space for students to learn about, wrestle with and be guided to appropriate conclusions regarding issues and concepts that are relevant to their particular culture and stage of life and development.
The curriculum is designed to evoke a Christian response—a sense of responsibility out of gratitude for love, privilege and giftedness rather than a response based in fear and selfishness.
