Ireland: youth adventure retreats launched

In one of the most exciting youth initiatives to be launched in Ireland for some time, The Congregation of the Sacred Hearts (SSCC) has launched a retreat programme aimed at giving youth a new perspective and encounter with their faith through a wide range of fun outdoor activities.

Located in the beautiful, green, rolling countryside near Cootehill Co Cavan, ‘Adventure Retreats Ireland’ is the new initiative being provided in three–way partnership between the resident Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, Tanagh Outdoor Education Centre and the fulltime youth retreat team from NET Ministries Ireland.
 
The Centre offers a range of retreat encounters from single to multiday which combine high quality outdoor pursuits with a blend of experiential faith activities, sharing and exercises offered by a dynamic young retreat team. A team of five trained individuals combine with the fully qualified instructors of the Tanagh Outdoor Education Centre to offer a unique experience for school or parish youth groups.

The project is being spearheaded by the Congregation’s Director of Vocation and Mission, Shane Halpin who sees this as an essential ingredient in the development of experiential faith among young people. “For too long many young people have been neglected in terms of their faith experience, often having to endure poor liturgy and a music ministry which hasn’t changed since their grandparent’s day. Many have never really experienced their Catholic faith as something fun and to be enjoyed. The concept is simple: provide a young vibrant retreat team, offer young people a quality faith experience that relates to where they are at, and make it enjoyable at the same time!”

The activity retreats will have an option for full-board accommodation for up to 56 young men and women. The range of outdoor activities are considerable and are aimed at providing learning and reflection opportunities, leadership skills and opportunities for creative expression.
 
The centre incorporates both a faith development team and a team of professional outdoor instructors and will be heavily subsidised initially by the Congregation and for that reason is extremely good value for what is on offer. All retreat givers and instructors are fully Garda/police vetted and the centre operates a strict child protection policy (Safe Guarding our Children 2008). Further details about the centre and to book online, see www.damiencentre.ie or phone Ultan Naughton on 049-5552245 or info@damiencentre.ie