Retreats

Annual grade-level retreats are an essential part of the DePaul Cristo Rey experience and are required for all students, regardless of faith tradition. These retreats provide students with opportunities to step away from the busyness of everyday life to deepen their relationships with God, build meaningful connections with their classmates, and grow personally through prayer, reflection, engaging activities, and community-building experiences. 

Grade 9 – Freshman Retreat Freshmen participate in a one-day, on-campus retreat centered on discovering their identity as beloved children of God and learning the importance of community and belonging. 

Grade 10 – Sophomore Retreat Sophomores attend a one-day, off-campus retreat focused on finding freedom from the obstacles and pressures that can prevent them from becoming the person God created them to be.

Grade 11 – Junior Retreat Juniors participate in a two-day, overnight retreat designed to help them become “overcomers” by facing life’s challenges with faith, resilience, and trust in God.

Grade 12 – Senior Retreat Seniors attend a three-day, two-night retreat that invites them to reflect on their high school journey and challenges them to embrace their call to be servant leaders who make a positive impact on the world around them.

In addition to the required grade-level retreats, DePaul Cristo Rey offers several optional retreat opportunities throughout the school year. These voluntary experiences allow students to deepen their faith, build new friendships, and encounter God in meaningful ways beyond the classroom. Students may apply to participate in these retreats as an opportunity for continued spiritual growth and discipleship.