Before going on the Kairos retreat, I was not very sure what I was going into. I knew people came back saying it was “life changing” but I could not really see what
could be so “life changing” about it. I came into the retreat with a lot on my mind; stress from school, pressure to meet expectations, and questions in my head about where I was going in life. Spiritually, being honest, I felt disconnected. I believe in God, but my faith often takes a back seat with everything else going on in my life. I kept most things to myself, not wanting to seem weak or vulnerable, even though part of me longed to be understood by others. But Kairos came and gave me that space which I sought.
From the moment the retreat began, there was a shift in my mindset. The normal rush of daily life was gone – no academic work, no phones, no distractions – and I was surrounded by people who were all there for the same reason, even if we didn’t know what that reason fully was yet. The talks each day hit me in ways I did not expect. Hearing others share their personal stories about struggles with faith, identity, relationships with friends and family, and self-worth was incredibly touching. What struck me most was how truthful and honest everyone was. There was no mask, no pretending, just honesty to your fellow retreatants throughout the retreat.
What changed for me after Kairos was how I saw myself, my relationship with others and God. I started to reflect on how I had been living closed-off and closed hearted to a lot of things. Through the retreat, I felt invited to dig deeper. I realized how much I had been holding in, and I let go of that by talking about it during small group discussions and in my quiet time with God. Some of these activities we had made me remember the side of me that can be caring and they also reminded me to be grateful to family and friends who show me lots of love.
What I enjoyed most during the retreat was the sense of community that formed so quickly. Whether it was during deep conversations, shared meals, late-night laughter, or moments of silence, there was a bond that grew between us. It was one of the few times in my life where I felt completely accepted for who I was, without needing to prove anything. That sense of belonging, of being known and loved stayed with me. I am especially grateful to Fr. Uchechukwu Oguike, S.J., the school chaplain, the six incredible K-18 Kairos leaders, and all the staff members who guided and supported us through this experience. Your kindness, wisdom, and presence helped make the retreat what it was, and I’m tremendously thankful.
Coming back from Kairos, I feel different. More grounded. More aware. Closer with my maker. I’m not saying everything suddenly became perfect, but something within me changed. I’m learning to be more present, more compassionate, and more open to the presence of God in my life. I’ve started to see faith as not just as a set of beliefs, but as a way of living – through love, service too, and connection with others. I am happy that I opened my heart to the experience and said “yes” to Kairos.
Kairos reminded me that I am not alone, that my voice matters, and that God’s love is real—even in the worst, most uncertain parts of life. For that, I’m immensely grateful.
Chukwudinum Stephen EFEBELI
Class of 2026