McQuaid Jesuit’s well known retreat, Kairos, opened its experience to Juniors. Kairos is a three day experience where students get to know their classmates and themselves better. They get the opportunity to connect with God and other faculty members. Students who attend this event say it is life changing and an unforgettable experience.
“This trip strengthened and created bonds with many of my classmates, and was an experience I will never forget”, junior Jon Catone said.

What seems like just a normal three day retreat turns into a life changing experience. Students who haven’t been on Kairos don’t know what to expect. Hearing the excitement and positive news about the previous trips from other students who went assures others to be open to the trip. “I originally went on it for that week off. I didn’t know what to expect but I was open minded and ended up enjoying it”, senior Dimitri Fabre said.

McQuaid has had 73 Kairos retreats. Kairos developed out of another retreat known as the Cursillo movement. Kairos has four retreats per year and averages 30 to 40 kids per trip. Religion teacher Mr. Andrew Hoelperl has shown his devotion towards the trips by going on more than 60 of them.

Kids are hesitant to go on these trips sometimes because they don’t know what to expect. Some may think that the retreat is too spiritual. The trip allows you to become closer with your brothers and build a better relationship with God. If one is hesitant to go on the trip, Mr. Flaherty, campus ministry director, suggest “It is a time to figure out where you’re going in life. It is a time to step outside your comfort zone and try it out.”

Kairos has been a favored retreat by many at McQuaid Jesuit. To enjoy the experience with your classmates and develop a deeper bond with your brothers is a reason why one would consider Kairos. This life changing experience gives students the opportunity become closer with friends and God.