Family Week
Join other families and couples from all over the Kansas City area for an inspiring Catholic marriage and family retreat on Benedictine College’s beautiful campus in Atchison, Kansas.
Retreat Dates: May 28 - June 1, 2023
Family Week is a week-long family enrichment retreat hosted by the Benedictine College Center for Family Life. Couples and families come to Family Week for a unique retreat experience that explores the “why and how” of marriage and family through a Catholic lens. It's a dynamic seven days of deep and engaging talks, fellowship, prayer, and fun activities for the whole family. In the mornings, couples explore various topics and strategies relating to marriage and family while the kids participate in fun activities and faith formation. Afternoons and evenings will include many opportunities for quality fun and formative family time. Families of all faith traditions welcome.
Registration for Family Week 2023 is not yet open.
A Unique Catholic Marriage and Family Retreat
Family Week is a true experience of an authentic Catholic vision for marriage and family life with experts on both the theology and practice of family living. Together we will discuss the unity discovered within and brought about by marriage, the importance of male and female and its relation to the Incarnation, couple's participation in and reflection of divine love, and the adventure of family life.
- Prevention: Fighting back against the secular narrative about family life will help prevent weakening of the family bond.
- Restoration: Intentional couple's time and family activities help to refresh and restore your marriage.
- Exploration: Together we'll explore God's plan for marriage, seeing not only the physical fruits but also the spiritual fruits that come from living out the nuptial sacramental vocation.
Where do we eat?
All participants will eat meals in the Benedictine College Dining Hall.
Where will I stay?
Participants will be housed in college dorms. Bedding is provided, but many participants choose to bring an extra pillow or blanket for added comfort. The dorms can be cool at night.
What if we live nearby?
Participants who live nearby are welcome to register for the retreat for a reduced rate, which is available within the registration page.
What if I’m flying in?
We are located 40 minutes North of the Kansas City Airport (MCI) and recommend that families flying in book a shuttle to and from campus.
Who should I call in case of emergency?
Our staff will be available 24/7 during all conferences to answer any questions and handle emergencies. If you need to get in contact with the Family Week Staff at any time for any reason please call (913) 360-7358.
What do I do if I have a food allergy?
If you have any dietary restrictions, please make sure to list them on your detailed registration form in the ‘allergies’ section. If you have already completed this form and have a new dietary restriction or forgot to list it, please contact us to let us know so that we can update your information.
What is the schedule for the day?
We're still finalizing the schedule, but the main formation time will be in the mornings, roughly 8:00 a.m. - Noon. After lunch there will be time for families to relax together. We’ll have recommended activities, but you’re also free to explore campus and Atchison on your own or use the time to rest. Evenings will be more structured, including time for a Rosary, Adoration, and hangout time with our great speakers.
What is the weather like and how should I dress?
Kansas is warm during the summer. It is hot during the day and pleasant at night and in the mornings. Some of the buildings may be chilly so please plan to bring a sweater or jacket. Please dress in modest, comfortable clothing.
What COVID-19 policies will be in place to keep participants safe?
It is difficult to say now exactly how COVID-19 will affect Family Week this summer as the situation continues to evolve. As we prepare for Family Week, we will be working closely with local health officials to implement the best policies to keep participants safe while still having and authentic experience of Family Week.
Benedictine has had in person classes and campus life all school year, which has allowed us to learn how to operate within the pandemic guidelines while still being able to have the Sacraments, campus activities, classes, etc. We are confident that we will be able to apply all of the ‘best practices’ that we are learning during the school year to Family Week so that participants have the best possible experience regardless of mask and social distancing protocols.
Please note that if you choose not to attend Family Week after registering because of the COVID-19 protocols in place at the time of Family Week, you will not be eligible for a full refund. All normal refund policies will apply.
