For four days and three nights, seniors drive hours away to partake in a life-changing experience: Kairos. Taking place in Whispering Winds, Julian, SM seniors will grow closer in their faith to God and bond with their classmates.

However, what the students actually do while at camp is kept secret. A sense of mystery shrouds the event since students don’t know about what activities and events are planned for the days ahead. In addition, their phones are taken upon exiting the bus once they arrive at camp, leaving students unsure of what is to come, filling the air with excitement and anxiety. They must leave their outside worries behind and enter a bubble of faith.

Kairos is a tradition dating back to 1976, which retreatants go to for a variety of reasons, but often to deepen their relationships with God. The word “Kairos” means “In God’s opportune Time,” signifying one of the goals of this retreat is to lean into faith. While little information about what happens is released to keep the confidentiality and surprise factors alive, there are some constituents known to the public. For example, small groups are formed with classmates, typically of people from different friend groups to encourage bonding between peers.

There are only five opportunities to attend each year, in July, September, November, January, and March, with the retreat being only available to seniors. When students return to school, they are offered the chance to apply to lead the next Kairos and share their journey and experience with the next group. Relationships are grown through God, community, and love there.

Whatever does happen, it is clear that those who go to Kairos return with refreshed faith, understanding, and missions.