Retreats
Retreat Programs
University Ministry wants to support students of any and all faith backgrounds in their desire to grow with God and with their faith community. Our retreat programs offer a wonderful space for personal faith exploration and growth as well as the opportunity to connect with other students and create lasting friendships and bonds.
New Beginnings Retreat
Detroit Mercy New Beginnings Retreat
September 2023
Register Here!
Who: First-Year and Transfer Students
When: Saturday Sept. 23 - Sunday Sept. 24
Where: Colombiere Retreat & Conference Center (9075 Big Lake Rd, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI)
What is it?
The New Beginnings Retreat is an opportunity to meet new people, forge relationships and reflect on your early experiences of college. Focused around the theme of transition, you'll hear stories from upper-class students, engage with peers in small group discussions, reflect on hopes and expectations, and have plenty of time for rest and recreation. The retreat is reflective in nature, but it not oriented towards any particular faith tradition. We hope you join us!
Cost: $40 (This can be paid by check or cash to the Ministry Office located in the lower level of the Student Union, across from the University Bookstore)
Questions? Contact: lawleran@udmercy.edu or 313-992-1925
Busy Persons Retreat
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Video: What is the Busy Persons Retreat?
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FAQ's
What is a retreat?
Taking time for yourself-- to rest, to reflect, to pray, to be renewed, to think, for self-care. Often a retreat is held at a different location than you normally occupy, like a retreat house, or a cabin, or quiet place away from distractions. The Busy Persons Retreat, because it's designed for people like you who may not be able to physically get away from your life/work for a few days, is held wherever you are. At your desk, in your car, in your dorm room, in your office, outside, etc.
How much time will this take?
The Busy Persons Retreat is five weeks long, and begins the week of February 22nd and finishes the week of March 22nd. Participants are expected to take some time for prayer and reflection several days per week (every day if it's possible, but we encourage you to do it at least 3 days each week.) You will have a spiritual guide/director assigned to you that you will be expected to meet with once per week during the five weeks. This person will help to guide you personally on the retreat. Their primary goal is to get to know you, and to help you in your spiritual walk, deepening your relationship with God.
What if I've never prayed, or spent much time thinking about God/religion?
The retreat will meet you wherever you are in your spiritual journey. If you didn't grow up practicing any religion, no problem. If you have disassociated yourself with a religion, but still consider yourself spiritual-- no problem. If you are a devout Catholic, or Muslim, or Jew, and want to go deeper-- no problem. If you have some experience with retreats but not a lot-- no problem. If you are unsure if you believe in God, but are curious as to what this retreat has to offer-- no problem. If you attend church every week and want to ask some questions to a trusted spiritual guide-- no problem. In other words- everyone is welcome, no matter where you are in your journey.
How can I get more info if have more questions, or if I want to talk to someone more before I sign up?
Drop by the ministry office, ground level of the Student Union or email a minister: lawleran@udmercy.edu, or call our office (313) 993-1925. We are happy to talk to you more about the Busy Persons Retreat and answer any questions you might have about it.
Is there a cost for the Busy Persons Retreat?
No, there is no cost for participants.
I think I'm ready to sign up. What do I do?
I signed up-- now what?
You will be contacted by University Ministry with more information, as the retreat draws closer. You will also be assigned a spiritual director/guide and will be given their contact info so you can set up your one-hour sessions. (Sessions begin the week of February 22nd)
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Registration
Please look for registration information in the University Ministry Newsletter, distributed twice a month.
Men's and Women's Retreats
Women’s Retreat
Every year, our Detroit Mercy women gather for an overnight retreat. It is a time for fun, relaxation, yoga, art, reflection and building community.
*DATE CHANGE*
When: March 31 - April 1, 2023
Where: De Sales Center, Brooklyn, MI
Registration: Sign Up for the Women's Retreat Here
Contact Anna Lawler with any questions.
Men’s Retreat
The Men’s Retreat is an overnight retreat with time for relaxation, reflection, recreation, and prayer. This year, the retreat will be held in the Irish Hills of Michigan at the De Sales Center where there is a low ropes course, and plenty of trees and trails for exploration.
*DATE CHANGE*
When: March 31 - April 1, 2023
Where: De Sales Center, Brooklyn, MI
Registration: Sign Up for the Men's Retreat Here
Contact Dan Greig with any questions.
Read about our past fall men's retreat on our blog: ministry.udmercy.edu