Class Retreats
Student retreats are a wonderful opportunity for students to learn more about our faith, practice prayer, and grow in the community. Our Retreat Program is designed with our students’ spiritual, social, and emotional development in mind.
Each class has a retreat opportunity during the course of the year. In addition, all students are encouraged to participate in various spiritual formation opportunities such as:
- National Catholic Youth Conference (every other year)
- National March for Life in D. C.
- Topeka Rally for Life
- Saints Walk for Life
![students in a chapel]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1700490610/stasaintsnet/opiwyyb77lvjtfjc7hn7/FreshmanRetreat2022_square.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1700490610/stasaintsnet/opiwyyb77lvjtfjc7hn7/FreshmanRetreat2022_square.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1700490610/stasaintsnet/opiwyyb77lvjtfjc7hn7/FreshmanRetreat2022_square.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1700490610/stasaintsnet/opiwyyb77lvjtfjc7hn7/FreshmanRetreat2022_square.jpg","width":1134}])
During the Freshman retreat “Belong,” students are encouraged to contemplate their individual contributions to the community and how each person can enhance the development of a Christ-centered community.
![sophomores at the Tucker Leadership Institute]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1700490738/stasaintsnet/xnldduelgeq2ejuyzgr2/SophmoreRetreatatTuckerLeadership_Square.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1700490738/stasaintsnet/xnldduelgeq2ejuyzgr2/SophmoreRetreatatTuckerLeadership_Square.jpg","width":360}])
At the Sophomore retreat, we assist students in identifying their strengths, weaknesses, and the unique gifts bestowed upon them by God.
![Saint Thomas Aquinas students serving at Boys Grow in KC,MO]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1700490913/stasaintsnet/to1msld8uswpp2fzshgs/JuniorServeDay2023_square.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1700490913/stasaintsnet/to1msld8uswpp2fzshgs/JuniorServeDay2023_square.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1700490913/stasaintsnet/to1msld8uswpp2fzshgs/JuniorServeDay2023_square.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1700490913/stasaintsnet/to1msld8uswpp2fzshgs/JuniorServeDay2023_square.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1700490913/stasaintsnet/to1msld8uswpp2fzshgs/JuniorServeDay2023_square.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1700490913/stasaintsnet/to1msld8uswpp2fzshgs/JuniorServeDay2023_square.jpg","width":2200}])
Junior year, students are asked to look outside themselves to see how they can serve those in our community that need our support. Our intention is that this service does not end here but should be a part of all of our spiritual lives.
Senior Retreat - Kairos
Kairos is an intense retreat experience for Seniors. It centers on fostering the retreatant's connection with God, self, and others. It leaves our students with a compelling question: How will they translate the love of God into meaningful action in our world?
Kairos helps the retreatant relate his everyday experiences with God. The retreat is adapted from principles derived from the “Spiritual Exercises” of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Several retreats are offered each year. Typically we hold one/two during the summer just before school starts and several each semester for a total of five. Applications are required to sign up and the retreat is first come, first serve basis.
Mr. Mark Blaise is the coordinator for the Kairos retreats. It usually runs from Tuesday evening through Friday (or Monday evening through Thursday evening) and is conducted off campus.
2025-2026 Kairos Retreat Dates will be sent out in May
Contact Information
Mark Blaise, '09
Campus Ministry
913-345-1411
mblaise@stasaints.net