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On May 16-18, Asbury University will host the first Set Apart Retreat for online and commuter students.
“We are excited to pilot the first Set Apart Retreat designed specifically for Asbury’s online and commuter student population,” said Director of the Christian Life Project Jeannie Banter ’06. “Recognizing the unique realities of students who are taking courses online or commuting, we designed this retreat over a weekend (Friday evening – Sunday noon), so hopefully our students will not miss much work or family time.”
The all-expenses-paid retreat will take place on Asbury University’s campus to give students the opportunity to come to campus, stay in a residence hall, and participate in campus life for the weekend. The entire cost of Asbury’s Set Apart retreats are covered by the generosity of the Price Foundation and others, so that there is no barrier for students to participate.
“During this retreat, students will have the chance to interact and learn from Asbury faculty/staff members, many of whom they have only seen through a screen,” Banter said. “This pilot retreat will follow the same format as every Set Apart Retreat: The Story of God, Finding Your Story in God’s Story, and Living Out God’s Story Through Your Life. Throughout the weekend, students will have the opportunity to worship and pray together, share with one another in small groups, hear Biblical teaching from faculty and staff, and rest so their hearts can be renewed.”
Over the retreat, a blend of full group sessions, workshops and small group time can help students to think deeply about their faith and cultivate a stronger Christian worldview. Students can build a stronger community and new friendships while reflecting on God’s created purpose for them.
Asbury students share testimonies from their Set Apart retreats.
“This trip was a great reminder of the need for rest and identifying and implementing daily rhythms in my life to help me connect more intentionally with God,” said John Teoh ’25. “It’s very easy to put it to the side when life gets busy, but this retreat was a reset button for me to bring these practices back.”
In October 2021, the Price Foundation provided a grant to launch the Set Apart Retreats which has impacted the lives of hundreds of students. Asbury is seeking to endow the retreats. Learn more.