Emmaus Retreat

“Were not our hearts burning within us?” 
Luke 24:32

The Emmaus retreat is a foundational experience open to all Canisius sophomores. The two-day, one-night retreat offers students the chance to take a step back from the busyness of daily life and reflect on who they are, what the Canisius community truly is, and how God is active in their lives.

The retreat is led by a team of upperclassmen and faculty or staff members who give talks, lead meditations, and encourage community. By entering into small group discussions, students are invited to share of their personal experiences and to listen to their peers; these conversations often lead to a greater sense of solidarity among the students.

Grounded in the story of the Risen Christ walking with the disciples to the town of Emmaus, the retreat proposes a perspective which seeks to recognize God’s presence in Scripture, sacraments, prayer, oneself, and others. Students often walk away with a greater sense of gratitude for the many blessings in their lives.  

Above all, the Emmaus retreat seeks to introduce students to deeper reflection and to confirm their feeling of belonging in the Canisius community.