Year 5 pupils from St. Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School in Stockton recently took part in a three-day spiritual retreat at Emmaus Youth Village, supported by the Youth Ministry Team (YMT). Set in the heart of the Derwent Valley, this peaceful setting offered the perfect space for personal reflection, prayer, and fellowship as part of the school’s continued journey through the Year of Hope.
Centred around Pope Francis’ message to young people, the retreat explored the theme of being Pilgrims of Hope – journeying together in faith, and discovering how God opens doors in our lives. Children engaged with Scripture, including reflections on the message to “Ask, Seek, Knock,” through a range of thoughtfully planned activities and workshops.
Throughout the retreat, pupils worked collaboratively as they rotated through Pilgrim Activity Stations, completing a Pilgrim Passport and exploring key messages of hope in our world, our communities, and our individual lives. Outdoor sessions helped pupils discover more about St. Cuthbert and his life on Holy Island, highlighting the importance of stewardship and caring for God’s creation. Each stage of the journey took children deeper into the global Church. From Lourdes, where they learned about St. Bernadette, to Rome, where they explored how St. Paul’s letters continue to inspire hope, children engaged in interactive sessions and creative tasks such as wax-resist artwork and affirmations.
The retreat also included time for fun and team-building. A highlight was the YMT Escape Room Challenge, where children collaborated with pupils from other visiting schools to complete a series of Bible-themed tasks. A woodland walk allowed students to connect with nature and reflect on God’s gifts through their senses, while the final day focused on envisioning a better world. Pupils imagined and presented their own versions of “God’s Kingdom,” creating adverts to promote their planet of hope.
The experience was deeply moving for many, as pupils listened to real-life stories of perseverance and faith from the international members of the Youth Ministry Team, helping them connect with diverse cultures and lived experiences. The retreat left a lasting impact on pupils, enriching their spiritual understanding and strengthening their values. They returned to school with renewed confidence, a greater sense of community, and a deeper awareness of how to live out their faith each day.
