These notes were eventually developed into the Spiritual Exercises—an organized series of meditations and reflections on central aspects of the Christian faith and on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
The Retreat Program at Gonzaga adapts the principles derived from Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises for the student body. Each year, every Gonzaga student has the opportunity to make a retreat. These are occasions when the young man is challenged to reflect upon his relationships with God and with others in his life, and to examine his personal growth in these basic relationships. The retreats vary in length, but each provides a haven from the daily routine of classes and home life to recharge the heart and mind for God's work—and, hopefully, to return with a fresh perspective for prayer and greater self-understanding.
Led by Campus Ministry and upperclassmen on the Gonzaga Ignatian Leadership Team, each retreat is meant to build upon the previous one.
Sophomores and juniors may apply in the spring semester to join the Ignatian Leadership Team for the upcoming academic year. All students are also encouraged to seek out Campus Ministers during the year to contribute to other opportunities for community building, reflection, and prayer.