College and Young Adult Fall 2024 Retreat at Mustang Island Recap

This past month, Mustang Island served as a serene backdrop for a transformative spiritual retreat tailored to college students and young adults. Attendees from various cities across the diocese came together, bringing with them a rich tapestry of Christian traditions and perspectives.

Nestled along the Gulf Coast, Mustang Island provided an ideal environment for reflection, connection, and growth. The gentle sounds of the waves and the cotton-candy colored skies complemented our gatherings, creating a peaceful atmosphere for introspection and communal worship.

The weekend was filled with engaging teachings and heartfelt discussions, allowing participants to explore their faith and spirituality in an inclusive setting. Guided by The Rev. James Derkits, attendees participated in activities that fostered deep conversations about their beliefs, doubts, and hopes for the future. The teaching sessions fostered a sense of belonging and understanding, reminding everyone that we are all discerning who God is calling us to be, regardless of our backgrounds.

In addition to structured activities, there was ample time for reflection, relaxation, and fun. Many found solace in solitary walks on the beach, journaling, or simply soaking in the beauty of the natural surroundings. These moments of quiet allowed participants to reconnect with themselves and their spirituality in profound ways. On the other hand, attendees had the opportunity to get to know each other more through games and shared experiences such as sailing on Fr. James's catamaran.  

On Sunday morning, many of us went down the road to attend Trinity by the Sea Episcopal Church, celebrating the Eucharist with their community. As the retreat concluded, attendees left with not only a renewed sense of purpose but also new friendships and a supportive community to lean on. The Mustang Island retreat was a reminder of the power of shared experiences in spiritual growth and the importance of creating safe spaces for young adults to explore their faith.

We look forward to future retreats and the continued journey of faith, connection, and personal growth. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this enriching experience!