FAQs for the 2025 Retreat

What time does the retreat begin and end?

The retreat begins at 1pm Saturday, and concludes at 11am Monday morning. Please arrange to have your youth eat lunch before arriving at Gwinwood on Saturday. We will not be serving lunch (but will have snacks available that afternoon).

Who is serving as volunteer staff for the retreat?

A number of pastors and volunteers from local Disciples churches are volunteering to staff the youth retreat. Rev. Annie Grogan (she/her) from Queen Anne Christian Church is directing this year! Her email is annie@qaccweb.org.

What will my youth be doing on the retreat?

The theme of our 2025 Winter Retreat is “Be Still.” Over and over again, we have heard from the youth in our camps and churches that they are tired. The pressures of academics, extra-curricular activities, and socializing are tough on our young people; in our digital age, they’re more connected to their obligations than ever. We want to respond by giving our youth time to rest and take a sabbath. Over the weekend, we’ll be providing stations to support physical, mental, social, creative, emotional, sensory, and spiritual rest. And of course, while the youth eat, play, sing, and be in community with one another, we hope to remind them of the deep love God has for them, just as they are.

Why are you requesting no cellphones?

Screen time, whether we spend it on social media or working, weighs heavy on all of us. We believe this is an area in which we all need rest, and so we ask that families support this opportunity for their youth to take a sabbath from their phones. We ask that youth leave their phones at home. Retreat staff will have their phones with them at all times in case of an emergency.

What should my youth pack for the retreat?

Check out our suggested packing list by clicking here. Don’t forget to bring bedding!