The Ignatian Center hosts three all-expenses-paid retreats every year for SCU faculty and staff. The retreats are grounded in Ignatian Spirituality, but are adapted for a spiritually diverse faculty and staff. Participants must complete an application and priority is given to faculty and staff who are new to Ignatian Spirituality.
2024-25 Retreat Offerings
"It was an amazing experience, and it was exactly what I needed. The balance of meditations and prayers with personal free time was perfect, and I enjoyed every moment of it. The location by the ocean was absolutely beautiful, and I couldn't have asked for a better setting. I am deeply appreciative of the fact that I work for an institution that values employee wellness and provides opportunities for personal growth and development."
- April 2023 Retreat Participant
Please contact Tony Cortese(acortese@scu.edu), Director of Ignatian Spirituality, if you have any questions!
September 16-18, 2024 | Villa Maria del Mar
Spend two days and two nights at Villa Maria del Mar, an oceanfront retreat house in Santa Cruz. Unlike other "retreats," these days of rest and renewal will not include any required attendance at any programming. It is simply a chance for SCU faculty, staff, and administration to rest and/or do some writing before the academic year begins.
Application will be available in July.
December 9-11, 2024 | Villa Maria del Mar
Spend two days and two nights at Villa Maria del Mar, an oceanfront retreat house in Santa Cruz. There will be plenty of time for rest, silence, and renewal as we take a gentle journey into the heart of our university: Ignatian Spirituality. We hope faculty and staff from any religious, secular, or spiritual identity feel supported and welcomed in this experience.
Application will be available in October.
April 14-17, 2025 | Villa Maria del Mar
Spend three days and three nights at Villa Maria del Mar, an oceanfront retreat house in Santa Cruz. This retreat draws from the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the 8 Limbs of Yoga to help participants deepen their connection with the Divine through yoga and Ignatian spirituality. Participants will also spend time outdoors in nature, exploring how the beauty of the natural world can inspire and deepen their spiritual lives.
Application will be available in February.