Sex in the City of God: A Retreat about Faith & Relationships

October 25, 2008
Location: Spiritual Life Center, St. Agnes Parish - San Francisco, California

“So God created humankind in the divine image…
male & female God created them.”  Genesis 1:27

In today’s society we are bombarded with mixed messages about human sexuality.  The media and our culture say one thing and our Catholic faith says another.  Through speakers, conversation, prayer and quiet reflection, you are invited to examine the relationships in your life and discover how we are all called to a deeper connection to others.

Sex in the City of God is a retreat for young adults, men and women, single, engaged and married, straight and gay, who are:

• Searching for a deeper understanding of the fullness of Catholic teaching on sexuality
• Longing for a healthier, holier embrace of our faith and relationships

What will I do doing the retreat?
This is a chance to get away from routine and regular commitments. Take time to be in a different space, reflect about the intersection between faith and relationships and how they impact our every day lives.  Meet and talk with others from our USF community who, like you, are looking to deepen their spirituality.  During the retreat you will have the opportunity hear speakers, talk to your peers during free time and in small groups, and have time on your own to think, read or pray.  There is an opportunity to celebrate Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  This particular retreat is a great chance to explore how the Gospel calls us to be in relationship with others and challenges us to grow. 

How do I register?
You can register online (below on this page) or in person at the University Ministry Offices, Lower Phelan Hall. 

What if I can’t afford the registration fee?
Financial assistance is available and the UM office can work with you to find a payment plan that works for you.

Can my friends come?
Absolutely!  In fact, many of us struggle with how to incorporate our faith in our relationships with friends, loved ones, and ourselves.  Share this retreat experience with someone you care about. 

What is Charis Retreat?
All Charis retreats are rooted in the spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the sixteenth-century Spanish mystic who is the patron saint of retreats. His Spiritual Exercises place an emphasis on the individual’s experience of God. He taught a methodology of prayer that combines reflection on experience, imaginative exploration of Scripture, holy reverence for the mystery of God, and ongoing creative experimentation. St. Ignatius was the ultimate pragmatist when it comes to spirituality. He taught us to 

• use what is helpful;
• relish the gifts that are given; and
• discard what gets in the way of growth in faith, hope, and love.

Application Deadline: October 18, 2008
Cost: $30
Open to all Students, Faculty, and Staff

**Payment is necessary for registration to be complete and to reserve your space on the retreat (a deposit will secure your space for retreats in which a deposit is required).  All  cancellations made more than two weeks prior to the retreat will be credited to a future retreat.  All payments, including deposits are non-refundable.  Payment plans and/or financial assistance are available for those with demonstrated financial need.**