Jan. 10–13, Colgate University students embraced an opportunity to connect, recharge, and explore spirituality in the serene setting of Silver Bay, N.Y., during a retreat organized by the Office of the Chaplains and hosted at the Silver Bay YMCA.
Corey MacPherson, Colgate’s university chaplain and Protestant campus minister, explained the retreat’s goal: “The Office of the Chaplains aims to build meaningful relationships among students from diverse religious and non-religious backgrounds. The interfaith retreat provided an opportunity to step away from campus and engage in new experiences with peers.”
The interfaith retreat was thoughtfully designed to welcome students from all backgrounds. Special attention was paid to inclusivity, from hosting interfaith dialogues to accommodating diverse dietary needs, including Halal and Kosher meals. The retreat also provided access to a 24-hour prayer room and spaces for quiet reflection. Thanks to a generous donor, the retreat was free for all participants.
Against the backdrop of snow-covered Lake George, mornings featured art projects like stained glass and fiber crafts, while afternoons offered activities such as pickleball tournaments, vertical climbing, and hikes with breathtaking views of the Adirondacks. Evenings provided space for group discussions, quiet prayer, or simply enjoying the starry skies on a constellation walk.
“We aimed to create a space where trust and dialogue could grow naturally through shared experiences,” said MacPherson. “By participating in activities like rock climbing and pickleball or simply walking through the beautiful Silver Bay campus, students found ways to connect meaningfully.”
Lindsey Chung ’26, one of the attendees, described the retreat as a much-needed pause during winter break. “Silver Bay had a much more laid-back and slow feeling compared to campus,” she shared. “I was free to do as much or as little as I wanted. With the snow on the ground, it felt peaceful and special — a place I’d come back to in a heartbeat.”
Chung particularly valued the opportunity to meet other students with diverse perspectives. “At meals and activities, I had fascinating conversations about our faiths. It was interesting to hear others’ experiences and perspectives.”
For Chung, the retreat was an experience worth recommending to her peers — and more are in the planning stages. “Especially during winter break, it’s a great way to recharge, try new activities, and engage with others seeking to discuss spiritual topics,” she said.