The Diocese of New York & New Jersey’s Department of Youth Ministry hosted their annual Lenten Teen & Young Adult Retreat the weekend of April 4-6. The retreat, held at Frost Valley YMCA in Clarryville, NY, was free for all participants. 

The 11 teens and 5 young adults engaged in fellowship, worship, recreation activities, and spiritual reflection within the natural beauty of the mountains. 

Saturday morning, Archbishop Michael served the Akathist of Thanksgiving and held a Q & A session for participants. Participants spent the day hiking, rock climbing, and playing team-building games. After dinner, Fr. John Morris (rector of Christ the Savior Church, Paramus, NJ) served vespers and led the young adult discussion group. Licensed Art Therapist Kristina Baktis led the teen group in a lenten reflection and art activity. Teen participant Honor Inlow directed the choir for all the services.

The retreat ended on Sunday with Divine Liturgy and brunch. Our teens and young adults struggle with isolation and loneliness. This retreat provided space for participants to connect and build supportive friendships grounded in the love of Christ. Everyone left the retreat filled with joy and looking forward to the next event.