Feb 14, 2020

Scenic Gretna Glen and Pocono Plateau Camp & Retreat centers will both sponsor conference-wide youth confirmation retreats in the coming weeks. All church confirmation classes are invited to attend.

Pocono Plateau’s retreat will begin on Friday, Feb. 28, at 7 PM and last till Sunday, March 1, at 1 PM. “We typically welcome at least 100 students each year,” says the Rev. Amy Banka, pastor of Hopewell UMC I Downingtown. 

“Some are going through the confirmation process; some leaders bring their students for the experience. These youth are about to make an exciting commitment to their local churches, and this weekend offers them a unique experience to be challenged and to grow in Christ.”

This is an opportunity for youth to:

  • Experience quality time as a group, away from their church and free from distractions.
  • Grow in their understanding of their faith journey.
  • Meet other confirmands from around the Conference. 
  • Enjoy a weekend of group activities, recreation, good food and snacks, teaching, reflection time, and sharing.
  • Discover what God thinks of you, the grace that God offers you, and the place God has made for you in the Body of Christ

“This is often a powerful experience for teens and their leaders, says Banka, who has led the confirmation retreat in past years. “We’ll cover important topics like identity, grace, and the body of Christ—all while celebrating the importance of the sacraments in these discussions. Whether they are currently in confirmation or not, these topics hit home and positively impact the decisions teens make.”

Two other young, dynamic pastors will join her as co-leaders this year: the Rev. Eric Carr, associate pastor of St. Daniel’s UMC in Chester; and the Rev. Brad Leight, pastor of Grace-St. Paul’s UMC in Jim Thorpe.

The cost is $90 per student, $30 per adult. (Coed groups must have coed leadership.) Use this Registration Form  or contact the camp office at 570-676-3665.

Gretna Glen’s Confirmation Camp will happen March 20-22, from Friday at 7 PM to Sunday at 1:30 PM in the Funk Program Center.  The center has offered its setting of natural beauty and teaching expertise and curriculum to thousands of confirmands through the years.

The weekend is focused on the five United Methodist vows of affirmation: prayer, witness, gifts, service, and presence. Each vow comes to life as the confirmands participate in hands on activities, discussions, and reflections that help draw parallels between confirmation and a life of faith.

Confirmands will also have an opportunity to participate in a spiritual gifts survey and speak with adults about how their gifts fit into the ministry of making disciples for the transformation of the world. This program is built to supplement any confirmation curriculum no matter what stage of the confirmation process.

“Are You Ready To Embrace Your Faith?” is this year’s theme. Leading the retreat will be the Rev. Bob Wilt, a retired pastor.

The cost is $90 per youth and $30 per adult counselor. A non-refundable deposit of $35 is required for each student. Groups are urged to register as soon as possible to secure a place. For more information call Gretna Glen at 717-273-6525 or email Olivia at assistant@gretnaglen.org. Camper Registration.