The business of academic life at Duke begs for a counterpart, something to balance out the hyper-focused study. For Duke Catholic students, retreats play a vital role in providing a much-needed break from academics and the space to reflect, not just on their life at Duke, but on their relationship with God.
Fall Semester Retreats
Ignite
Join us in the fall semester for our Ignite retreat at the beach! Great for first-year students (and open to all!), the Ignite retreat is a wonderful opportunity to meet and grow in relationships with other Catholic students at Duke.
Beyond budding friendships, Ignite also introduces students to and gives them a taste of the abundance of Catholic opportunities on campus, such as small groups, adoration, music ministry, confession, and more.
This retreat happens each fall semester, usually in early September.
Duc in Altum
'For in hope we were saved.' This message from Paul to the Romans is also a message for our time. If you are wrestling with hope in a world of uncertainty, if you struggle to have faith in the face of the practical demands of everyday life, or if you want to rediscover and be renewed in the power of Christian hope, join the DCC for Duc in Altum, a one-day undergraduate retreat hosted at the Falcone-Arena House on November 8th from 9 AM - 9 PM.
In the sacraments, prayer, formation, and community, we will live together the discipleship of this hope, through which we are empowered to persevere, live meaningfully, and proclaim the joy of Christ to a world in need. Space is limited, so register today to reserve your spot!
Spring Semester Retreats
Ablaze: Ministry-Wide Retreat
Fan the flames of your discipleship in Christ at the Ablaze retreat offered during the spring semester. This is a perfect opportunity to take time away from busy campus life for adoration under the stars and campfire fellowship.
Graduate Retreat
Graduate and professional students are invited to attend a retreat tailored just for you! Take a night away from Duke to refresh and renew your spiritual life.
This overnight retreat typically takes place during the spring semester.
Spring Break Mission & Summer Pilgrimage
Spring Break Missions
Join us for a week of service, faith, and cultural immersion. We will be serving at Santa Maria del Mexicano House in Colón, Mexico – a home for children and the elderly. (Spanish fluency helpful but not necessary)
Destination: Mexico City & Querétaro, Mexico
Date: March 7-15, 2026
Activities:
- Service projects assisting the elderly and teaching children
- Light construction and building activities
- Evangelization and faith sharing
- Daily Mass, personal prayer, and group reflection
- Pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City
- Cultural immersion and visits in Querétaro
Cost: $1600 per missionary. Partial scholarships are available.
Includes: Airfare, lodging, local transportation, meals, and travel insurance.
Payment schedule:
- November 15: $400
- December 15: $400
- January 15: $400
- February 15: $400
Payment Method: Venmo @dukecatholic (please include name, Net ID and Spring Break Mission with payments)
Travel details:
- March 7: Departure from RDU to Mexico City. (overnight in Mexico City)
- March 8: Transfer to Querétaro and Santa María del Mexicano House
- March 12: Transfer to Anáhuac University, Querétaro
- March 15: Return from Querétaro to RDU
Lodging and Local info: Accommodations: Santa María del Mexicano House (Colón) & Anáhuac University, Querétaro
Cities visited: Mexico City and Querétaro
Health and safety: Your safety is our top priority.
We are partnering with Juventud Misionera Querétaro and Anáhuac University to ensure a secure, well-coordinated, and enriching missionary experience.
Detailed practical guidance (and packing list) will be shared in pre-trip meetings.
The Duke Catholic Center is returning to Spain this summer for a pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago!
Join us for our next Information Session on Sunday, October 26, at 6:30 p.m. in the DCC Offices in Page Auditorium to learn all about this pilgrimage! Can’t make the information session but are interested in getting more details? Contact Monica Cronin at monica.cronin@duke.edu.