Student Retreats

Freshman/Sophomore Retreat

The Freshman and Sophomore retreat is a unique, student-led retreat held each May. Juniors and Seniors in Peer Ministry Courses prepare a theme with accompanying activities. A recent theme has included "Be Not Afraid" and focused on the life and teachings of Saint John Paul II. 

Junior Retreat

Each year Junior Gentlemen and Ladies attend separate retreats that focus on vocations; and which are held during Junior Week in the spring.

Both the 2022 Gentlemen's and Ladies Retreat were held this year at school. Fr. Chiriaco, BSHS School Minister, Sr. Christina Roberts, IHM, and other Shanahan faculty members, along with our Faith in Action student team, led fun team building exercises with the students.

Fr. David Friel, from the Archdiocesan Vocations Office; Sister Maryann, IHM, the Vocations Director of the IHM Sisters, and Mrs. Meigan Kelly offered engaging presentations geared at helping our students become the leaders so needed in our world and community today.

The Retreat Day began with the celebration of Holy Mass; and concluded with the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, in the auditorium.

Senior Retreat (Kairos)

Kairos 64: December 2 - 5, 2022→ Malvern
Kairos 65: January 20 - 23, 2023→ Malvern
Kairos 66: February 24 - 27, 2023→ Malvern
Kairos 67: April 28 - May 1, 2023→ Elverson

The Senior year retreat, Kairos, focuses on the call for students to be leaders, especially in the school community. Kairos, the Greek word meaning the "right time," or in theology, “the appointed time in the purpose of God,” is an intensive four-day retreat where Seniors open themselves up to God's love as well as the love of their family and friends.  Over the years it has become very popular among the students and continues to be one of the hallmarks of Senior year. ​

The spirit of the retreat is one of acceptance and love.  Kairos is an opportunity to grow in relationship with God, self, and others.  Retreatants come to recognize God's presence in all things: in music, nature, family, friendships, and especially Sacred Scripture and the Sacraments.  The Kairos retreat is based upon the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius Loyola and is specially adapted for high school.