Confirmation Retreat 2026
"Chosen for Greatness"
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Registration closes January 28
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Need to Know
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Retreat Weekend
February 27-March 1, 2026
Why the retreat is so important This weekend is a necessary and wonderful component of the Confirmation preparation program. This is an opportunity for teens to get away from their day-to-day distractions and be in a space that allows us to encounter God in brand new ways. This retreat will deepen friendships and help us to reignite a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.This is an opportunity we cannot replicate - and is the most cruciaal part of our preparation this year.What last year's parents want you to know
"As a parent, and group leader for six years, I can confidently say this transformative, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has helped every confirmation candidate better own their personal faith, and for some it was a life changing experience." - Brian W., Parent and Core Member
"The confirmation retreat is a special weekend. It allows you to escape the busyness of daily life and come together to worship and pray as a community. This weekend was fundamental in me realizing my potential in my faith. This weekend changed my life for the better and allowed me to realize that I need to be more involved in my faith and join Life Teen where I met a bunch of people I call good friends. I can only think of the blessings God has in store for your child this weekend." - Jon P., Teen Leader
“I would encourage students to attend this transformative retreat experience. As a parent and a volunteer for the last three years, I have had the privilege to walk beside some of these amazing young people and have witnessed some beautiful life changing faith journeys! It is one of the best gifts we can give our children, an opportunity to grow in their faith along side their peers and the support of the St Gabriel’s confirmation team.“ - Megan D., Parent and VolunteerFAQs
Cost: There is no fee for the retreat. This was included in your initial registration at the beginning of the year.
Location: Caraway Conference Center in Sophia, NC (near Ashboro, NC)
Transporation: Bus transportation will be provided on Friday evening from St. Gabriel Church to Caraway Conference Center. Drop off teens for check in by 4:45pm on Friday at St. Gabriel Church. Transportation will not be provided on Sunday (parents will need to come pick up at the retreat site.) Parents are invited to arrive at 10:45am to be a part of our closing. The retreat weekend will conclude at 11:30am on Sunday.
Cell Phone Policy: Please do not bring cell phones. In the past, we have experienced problems with cell phones and we want to avoid those issues. Retreat is an opportunity to detach from the distractions in our daily life to take time to listen, reflect and be present to one another. We will provide contact information to you in the event that you need to contact your child. In addition, if your child needs to contact you, we will have them contact you from the conference center.
What do we need to pack?: Please see Parent Information Guide for complete packing list.
Parent Info Guide
We have put together a Parent Information Guide to answer any questions or concerns parents may have. After reading the guide, if you still have questions or concerns, please contact Lauren Piercefield.Making the Decision
We know taking time away can be challenging with our schedules and activities but this weekend is designed not only to help youth prepare to receive the sacrament of confirmation but to have an encounter with Jesus Christ. Our young people today are making the decision at the early age of 13 to no longer be Catholic according to the CARA Report*. The Church, which includes parents and the parish community, have a responsibility to provide opportunities to encourage, challenge and invite youth to follow Jesus, to become a life-long disciple. A real relationship with Christ is possible and we have seen the transformation and impact that a retreat like this can have on young people.
Registration Opens: December 7
Regisration Deadline: January 28
We Need Volunteers
In order to successfully provide an awesome weekend experience, we need parent volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Lauren Piercefield.
* Center for Applied Research in the ApostolateMore from last year's retreat "As a small group leader for the past 3 years and attending the retreat, I see the Confirmation Retreat as a key turning point in your teen's faith journey. You may not see the fruit immediately, but seeds will be planted." - Amy L., Core Member
"I love going to retreats because I get to be up close and personal with God. He helps me remember how much he loves and cares for me at times when I might’ve forgotten because of how busy and chaotic life can get. If you’re on the fence about going, I highly recommend taking that leap of faith. Retreats can be such a powerful and emotional experience and God can touch your heart in ways you may not expect or even know you needed. And never forget that God always knows what’s best for you and he knows every step you’re going to take, even when you don’t." - Emma J., Teen Leader
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Retreat Photos! Full Album Link Below.
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See the Full 2025 Album Here
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