Retreats

A diverse group of approximately fifty people stands and sits in a loose circular formation on grass. They are outdoors, smiling and dressed casually in various sweaters, jackets, and hats. The group appears to be enjoying a gathering or event.

Fall 2025

FYRE: Community | Faith | Belonging

FYRE (First Year Retreat Experience)

Rooted in our Catholic, Benedictine heritage, this retreat is open all students, of any faith tradition. We invite all first year students into this experience as we foster discipleship through hospitality, worship, prayer, witness, and reflection so students may embrace and live out their faith. Upperclassmen continuously call this retreat one of their favorite memories of their first year at Saint John’s and Saint Ben’s.

FYRE is designed specifically for first-year students, focusing on spirituality and supporting them to begin building a faith community. Students spend the weekend reflecting, discussing their personal faith, and participating in a series of talks and activities.

When: October 3-5 2025

Where: Luther Crest, Alexandria, MN

A group of students stands outdoors, engaged in conversation. They are beneath a large, angled concrete structure, and autumn-colored trees are visible in the background. Everyone appears to be enjoying the discussion, with smiles and relaxed postures.

It is a weekend of discovery that poses the questions:

Who am I in this transition to college?
Who am I going to be? Who do I want to become?
Where does God fit into my life at CSB+SJU?

Three young men are sitting close together and smiling at the camera. The first wears glasses and a St. John's sweatshirt, the second has short dark hair and a gray hoodie, and the third has a short haircut and a green jacket. People in casual attire are in the background.

Four young adults are outside near a wooden building with stone steps. They appear to be enjoying themselves. One person is pointing towards another who is wearing a lanyard name tag. Another in the background is smiling while the fourth person is laughing.

Two smiling young women stand on a balcony with a scenic background of autumn trees. One wears a plaid shirt and holds a green mug, while the other wears a dark jacket over a university sweatshirt and holds a black mug. They appear to be enjoying hot drinks together.

Roots: An Eco-Spirituality Retreat

A promotional flyer for the "Roots" eco-spirituality retreat, happening October 19-20, 2024. Includes images of people harvesting and enjoying produce. The flyer promotes hands-on activities, simple living, and restorative agriculture.

This retreat is an opportunity to spend a weekend focused on Environmental Justice, Agrarian Spirituality, and the Catholic Worker Movement

2025 Dates and Registration Link Available Soon!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact SJU Campus Ministry at [email protected] or 320-363-2790.

Spring 2025

Creation Retreat

A space for Bennies and Johnnies to take a step back from the world and spend time with one another in prayer,
reflection, and active life. This retreat will explore themes of stewardship, connecting with God as creator, and fellowship. We will explore faith and spend plenty of time in the great outdoors!

Date Announced Soon!

Trails Retreat

A picturesque trail winds through a rugged, green landscape with rocky formations on either side. The word "Trails" is written in bold, stylized black text across the top of the image.

An opportunity for students to look at their CSB and SJU journey and consider how they’re being prepared
for the next step of life’s adventure. Through shared prayer, reflection and storytelling, this retreat will
guide students to think about their callings and provide them with discernment practices for everyday life.

WHEN: Friday-Saturday in Spring Semester, 2026 Dates Announced Soon
WHO: Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Bennies and Johnnies

WHERE: Luther Crest Bible Camp, Alexandria, MN

Contact Us

SJU Campus Ministry

Mary Hall 100
Saint John’s University
Collegeville, MN 56321-2000

320-363-2790
[email protected]

Meet our Staff