Faith and Fellowship: 2024 Young Adults Retreat Brings Community Together in the Peak District

The 2024 young adults retreat at Dovedale House gathered over 50 participants, offering spiritual growth, outdoor activities, and meaningful conversations in a scenic setting.

In September 2024, we held our annual young adults retreat at Dovedale House, nestled in the beautiful Peak District. The retreat welcomed 45 adults and 13 children, from across England, including a few young families. This diverse group allowed for a rich mix of perspectives, with attendees in different stages of life sharing and learning from one another.

The theme of the retreat, "Companions of Faith," was a continuation of last year’s focus. Our goal was to strengthen connections within our faith community while embracing the peaceful environment around us. The setting provided the perfect backdrop for reflection, conversation, and rejuvenation.

Throughout the retreat, we had the privilege of hearing from a few of our elder brothers and sisters. Their talks focused on personal transformation through deepening our relationship with God. They encouraged us to reflect on how we can grow our capacity to love, break negative patterns in our lives, and live more aligned with our faith. These sessions inspired thoughtful discussions that extended well beyond the talks themselves.

In addition to the spiritual content, there was plenty of time for leisure and bonding. Despite the unpredictable weather, we made the most of the surroundings with outdoor activities such as hiking, visiting nearby towns, and spending time by the local reservoir. We also enjoyed sports on the Dovedale grounds and introduced new group games, which brought a lot of fun and laughter. The campfire night was a highlight for many, offering a cozy setting to relax and share stories.

The retreat was more than just a time to unwind; it was a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with both old friends and new faces. After the busyness of summer, the retreat offered a chance to refresh spiritually and mentally, reflecting on where we’ve been and preparing for the new season ahead.

We are incredibly thankful to everyone who participated in the planning and execution of this retreat, as well as those who attended. It was a weekend filled with memorable moments, spiritual growth, and a renewed sense of community. We look forward to continuing this tradition and seeing the connections we built at this retreat grow in the months to come.