Buckeye Awakening

The Awakening retreat was born in the 1970s as a Cursillo-based weekend retreat experience designed to help college students “awaken” their faith and build relationships with God and each other. Since its inception, the Awakening retreat has become a nationwide phenomenon that now takes place on more than 50 college campuses.

The retreat is centered on a series of witness talks and fun group activities led by students. During the retreat, small “family” groups are facilitated by two student staffers to discuss the presentations and participate in team-building activities. The weekend is filled with music, fun, time for prayer, and opportunities for the sacraments of reconciliation and the Eucharist.

In the summer of 2009, seven Buckeye Catholics traveled to Texas A&M University to experience Aggie Awakening #86. They returned, inspired to bring this impactful student-led retreat experience to Columbus. In the fall of 2009, they led the first ever Buckeye Awakening with 49 participants. In the past 10 years the program has grown and flourished. The Newman Center has hosted 20 Buckeye Awakening retreat weekends, impacting more than 1,300 students! This retreat program has become a staple of our campus ministry. Many students experience the retreat and then return as leaders, making the retreat meaningful for the next group. The retreat serves as a gateway to deeper involvement in Newman Center ministries, awakens the faith, and builds community relationships that last a lifetime.

TOP: Eucharistic Adoration is one component of Buckeye Awakening retreats that leaves a lasting impression on many participants. BOTTOM: Strong, supportive relationships are forged during this intense weekend retreat.

TOP: 162 students participated in Buckeye Awakening #20 in spring 2019. BOTTOM: 49 students participated in Buckeye Awakening #1 in fall 2009. Five students and two staff members traveled to St. Mary’s at Texas A&M for Aggie Awakening #86.

This year the Newman Center will be celebrating the 10 year anniversary of our Buckeye Awakening retreat program with a special Mass and reception on Sunday, Oct. 27. All are invited to come celebrate this impactful ministry! For more information, please visit www.BuckeyeCatholic.com/10YearsofBA.