BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS]

After reviewing facility availability, the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania has decided to focus its youth retreat efforts on the upcoming 2027 Winter Teen Retreat. As a result, the Fall Teen Retreat will not be held in 2026.

In seeking a suitable location for the retreat, the Diocese found that various retreat centers were already fully booked for the necessary dates. Retreat centers throughout the region maintain increasingly busy schedules, making it essential to reserve facilities well in advance.

Going forward, the Diocesan Youth Department will make every effort to secure retreat dates and facilities earlier in the planning process. The goal will be to announce each upcoming youth retreat by the conclusion of the current retreat, allowing families, parishes, and retreat centers ample time to plan accordingly. Given the limited facility availability and an already full calendar of diocesan events throughout the fall, the Diocese believes it is best to focus its efforts and resources on the upcoming Winter Youth Retreat.

The Youth Department is already looking forward to welcoming youth and young adults from throughout the Diocese to the 2027 Winter Youth Retreat, scheduled for January 29-31, 2027, at Refreshing Mountain Retreat & Adventure Center in Stevens, PA. Additional information, including registration details, lodging information, and the retreat schedule, will be announced in the coming months. The Diocese extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported and participated in its Youth Ministries throughout the year. While the Fall Youth Retreat will not take place in 2026, the Diocese looks forward to gathering once again this winter for a weekend of prayer, fellowship, spiritual growth, and recreation.

Youth, young adults, clergy, parents, and parish communities are encouraged to save the date and begin making plans to attend the 2027 Winter Youth Retreat.

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office