Twice a year, campus minister, Mrs. Vavala, takes a group of 30 upperclassmen on a spiritual retreat. The group stays at St. Raphaela Center in Pennsylvania, which is near Villanova University. Along with the Encounterites, Mrs. Vavala brings a group of senior team leaders who who have already been on Encounter and are willing to share their experiences and help guide the others. The team leaders meet once a week and start planning the weekend about two months prior to the actual retreat. Together with Mrs. Vavala, they plan out roommates, scheduling, activities, and liturgies.

For those who wish to go on Encounter, students have to submit an application about their spiritual journey. For each retreat, many applications are turned into the campus ministry office and there is almost always a waiting list put in place. Usually seniors have priority, but there are always spaces available for the juniors.

The Encounterites leave on a Thursday night after school and stay until Sunday morning. During the weekend, the girls break off into small groups where they discuss their faith and spiritual journeys. Many friendships are formed during this weekend because of the close-knit community that Encounter creates between the 30 girls. The Encounterites have the opportunity to bond with their sisters who they would not normally meet at school.

    Encounter is an experience that will never be forgotten. It creates lifelong friendships and will strengthen relationships with God.