This year’s Diocesan Spring Youth and Young Adult Retreat at Frost Valley was marked by joy, fellowship, and a spirit of faith. From hiking along rain‑soaked trails and team‑building challenges to reflective discussions, prayers during meals, and church services, every moment drew hearts and minds toward Christ with purpose and gratitude. With 20 teens, 8 young adults, and dedicated chaperones in attendance, participation continues to grow.

The weekend began Friday evening as old friendships were renewed and new ones quickly formed. On Saturday morning, the group gathered in prayer to sing the Akathist, “Glory to God for All Things,” setting a tone of gratitude that carried throughout the weekend.

His Eminence Archbishop Michael made time in his busy schedule to visit before continuing to Buffalo. He met with the group for a thoughtful and engaging Q&A session, offering guidance, encouragement, and a pastoral presence that was deeply appreciated by all.

Even in the rain, the group embraced the weekend fully. A hike through the wet trails became an opportunity for shared perseverance and laughter, while team-building activities were creatively moved indoors without losing their energy or spirit. 

Fr. Martin and the young adults gathered for a focused discussion, creating space for deeper conversation and reflection on life, faith, and the obstacles that often stand in the way of encountering Christ. Many came carrying questions and in search of something more. Like the stone rolled away from the tomb, barriers were lifted, hearts were opened, and what began as a search for answers became a real step toward encountering Christ.

Worship remained at the heart of the retreat. Saturday evening Vespers was prayerfully offered, enhanced by a beautiful choir directed by retreat participant Honor Inlow. In his sermon, Fr. Martin reflected on friendship in the life of faith while drawing inspiration from the Myrrh-bearing Women, Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, and the Apostles to remind all present that the Christian life is not lived alone. God, in His mercy, gives us companions to strengthen, encourage, and help us carry life’s burdens with love and faith. The group explored a practical daily rhythm of prayer each morning offering thanks before meals, and ending the day in prayer while reflecting on the distinction between personal prayer and the Church’s communal worship. 

Following Vespers, the group gathered for a bonfire with s’mores. Though the rain continued, fellowship carried on under the pavilion; a simple but creative solution that allowed the evening to remain warm and joyful. The rain revealed that a Christ-centered existence does not hinder one's life when trials try to deter or block our plans.

By Sunday morning, the rain gave way as the sun broke through, and the fog slowly lifted over Frost Valley, revealing a calm and renewed landscape. The retreat concluded with Divine Liturgy.  Building on the retreat's theme, Fr. Martin’s sermon turned to the Myrrh-bearing Women who, despite fear, grief, and uncertainty, went to the tomb out of love for Christ. Their courage and devotion offered a powerful witness, encouraging all present to continue moving toward Christ, even when the path is difficult or unclear.

Though much of the weekend was marked by rain, it did little to dampen the spirit of the retreat. Through prayer, fellowship, and shared experience, it became a living reminder that even in challenging conditions, Christ is present, calling us forward to His divine grace and mercy.

This retreat was made possible through the generous support of the Distinguished Diocesan Benefactors (DDB) of the Orthodox Church in America – Diocese of New York and New Jersey. Every DDB contribution directly strengthens the life of our Church and ensures that opportunities for spiritual growth—like this retreat—remain available for years to come.

If you would like to join in supporting these efforts, please consider becoming a Distinguished Diocesan Benefactor. Your offering—large or small—helps build up the Body of Christ in our local Church.  Visit nynjoca.org/ddb to learn more or to make a secure online donation.