Youth find revival and joy at OLP overnight retreat

Laughter echoed across the fields of Findley Lake as dozens of high school students gathered June 13-14 for Our Lady of Peace parish’s annual Summer Overnight Retreat. Organized by Sarah Beaver, coordinator of youth ministry, the event welcomed 38 high school youth, over 10 young adult volunteers and even priests, many of whom stayed for most of the retreat. The theme this year: Revival, Renewal and Empowerment.

“This was more than just an overnight,” said Beaver. “We created space for teens to encounter Christ in a personal, joyful and transformative way. It was beautiful to witness.”

From spirited games like slip-and-slide kickball to moments of silent prayer and praise, the retreat struck a balance between faith and fun. One of the most memorable moments came during the “Pond for Jesus” activity, where youth dove into the water to symbolize their willingness to dive into their faith lives with the same boldness and energy.

“The retreat helped to kick-start a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit for me,” shared Theresa, 16, from Our Lady of Peace Parish. “It was a time of peaceful reflection on all that God has blessed me with, and what I can do to grow closer to him.”

Throughout the two-day experience, participants were invited to attend Mass, participate in Eucharistic Adoration and join in small-group discussions and community meals. Priests from the diocese not only visited but stayed, prayed and laughed alongside the teens, helping to model joyful discipleship in action.

“The retreat really helped me with my personal prayer life,” said Eddie, 15, from St. Peter Cathedral. “It made Jesus more real to me through youth community. Jesus calls us to have childlike faith and at this retreat, I experienced that.”

That sense of faith paired with community was a consistent theme. “It was a combination of fruitful in faith and fun in fellowship,” said Debella, 16, from Our Lady Queen of the Americas. “I got to meet new people and with them, got to connect deeper in my relationship with the Lord.”

Declan Toohey, 18, from Our Lady of Peace Parish, summed up the atmosphere of the retreat simply: “It was a very welcoming environment that I was truly able to feel the presence of Jesus in!”

The OLP Overnight Retreat served not only as a celebration of summer but as a launchpad for the many trips and youth encounters planned for the coming months. As the teens left, smiling, many were already asking when they could come back.

“We want them to leave revived,” Beaver said, “but more importantly, we want them to know how deeply they are loved by Christ and how they’re called to carry that love into the world.”

And if the retreat was any indication, they’re ready.