Youth Ministry

What Happens at Youth Group?

Each week includes a mix of large group and small group activities, such as:

• Fun games and icebreakers

• Engaging talks and faith discussions

• Crafts and interactive projects

• Time for prayer and reflection

We explore topics about our Catholic faith and what it means to live as a disciple of Jesus in middle school and beyond.

Our group is led by amazing adult catechists (our CORE Team) made up of parishioners, William & Mary students, and high school teen leaders who are excited to walk with your middle schoolers on their faith journey.

Save the Date: Diocesan Youth Conference (DYC) – 2026!

February 20–22, 2026 | Greater Richmond Convention Center

Hosted by the Diocesan Office for Evangelization, the Diocesan Youth Conference (DYC) is a high-energy, faith-filled weekend that brings together high school teens from all 145 parishes in our diocese!

DYC is an incredible opportunity to experience the larger Church in action, celebrate the richness of our Catholic faith, grow in community, and encounter Christ in a powerful way.

️ This overnight conference is open to 8th–12th graders, and it’s one you definitely don’t want to miss!

️Camp Hidden Lake – Middle School Summer Camp

One Unforgettable Week in the Mountains of Georgia

Think summer camp + Catholic retreat = #bestcampever.
At Camp Hidden Lake, middle schoolers from across the country come together for a week full of:

• Faith-filled adventures

• Daily Mass, Adoration, and the Sacraments

• Outdoor games, swimming, ropes courses, and more

• Deep friendships and lifelong memories

This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the fun of summer with the depth of our Catholic faith.

More Coming Soon!
Stay tuned for more info on upcoming middle school retreats, conferences, and trips throughout the year!

‍Who Can Attend High School Youth Group?

All students in grades 9–12 are invited to be part of our high school youth group! Whether you're a freshman just starting out or a senior preparing for what’s next, there’s a place for you here.

When Do We Meet?

We gather on Sundays from 3:15–4:45 PM, just before the 5:00 PM Mass during the academic year. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your weekend with friends, fun, and faith!

Where Do We Meet?

Youth Group kicks off in Kaplan Parish Hall.

What Happens at Youth Group?

Each session includes a mix of large group activities and small group discussions, where we dive into real-life topics through the lens of our Catholic faith.

Expect:

• Fun games and icebreakers

• Meaningful talks and small group convos

• Powerful prayer experiences

• Opportunities to grow in faith and friendship

We’ll explore how to live and share our faith boldly in everyday life—at school, with friends, and beyond.

Don’t Miss Our Youth Ministry Socials!
Check the calendar for monthly social events that are all about building community and having fun together!

2nd Wednesday of the Month | 7:00 PM | Church

Upper Room is a powerful evening of Eucharistic Adoration, accompanied by live praise & worship music and an inspirational talk designed to stir hearts and deepen your relationship with Christ.

This special event is open to the entire parish community—teens, families, adults… all are welcome!

️Join Us for a Potluck Social!

Come early and enjoy food and fellowship before Upper Room.
We’ll gather at 6:00 PM in Kaplan Parish Hall to share a meal and connect as a community.

For upcoming dates, please check the Youth Ministry Calendar.
Let’s come together in worship, friendship, and faith. We can’t wait to see you there!

High School Lock-In Retreat

Date TBD | Open to Grades 9–12
Join us for a fun, faith-filled overnight retreat right here at the parish! This lock-in is the perfect way to make new friends and recharge spiritually in the middle of the school year. Whether you’re new or returning, it’s a must-attend event!

️Confirmation Retreat

October 24–25, 2025
This mandatory retreat is for all teens preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. It’s a weekend designed to help candidates deepen their relationship with Christ and embrace the journey of faith ahead.

Diocesan Youth Conference (DYC)

Save the Date: February 20–22, 2026 | Greater Richmond Convention Center
Hosted by the Diocese of Richmond, DYC brings together high school youth (grades 8–12) from all 145 parishes for a weekend of high-energy worship, powerful talks, and a joyful celebration of our Catholic faith. Don’t miss this incredible experience of Church on a larger scale!

️Diocesan Work Camp

Save the Date: June 20–26, 2026 | Bristol, VA
This weeklong service trip is open to high school youth and adult volunteers. Participants help make homes safer, warmer, and drier for families in need, while also growing in community, faith, and servant leadership. A transformative experience for all involved!

Steubenville Youth Conference

Summer 2026 | Date TBD
Join thousands of teens from across the country for a dynamic weekend of faith at the Steubenville Summer Youth Conference. Experience amazing talks, praise & worship, Adoration, Mass, fellowship, and fun—all centered around an encounter with the living Christ.

 When is the Sacrament of Confirmation Conferred?

In the Diocese of Richmond, the Sacrament of Confirmation is typically conferred at age 15 and during the 10th grade year.
Teens in 11th or 12th grade who have not yet been confirmed are also welcome and encouraged to begin preparation.

 Components of Confirmation Preparation

To fully prepare for the Sacrament, teens are expected to complete the following components:

Confirmation Orientation Meeting
September 15 @ 7:00 PM | Kaplan Parish Hall
A required kickoff meeting for teens and at least one parent/guardian.

Confirmation Classes
All classes meet from 7:00–8:30 PM in Kaplan Parish Hall on the following dates:

• October 13

• November 10

• December 15

• January 12

• February 23

• March 16

 Regular Participation in Youth Group
Sundays from 3:15–4:45 PM
Weekly Faith Formation through our High School Youth Group is an essential part of preparation.

Confirmation Retreat
October 24–25, 2025 | Jamestown 4-H Center
This retreat is mandatory for all candidates.

Confirmation Interview with Brittney Kinstetter
Interviews will take place later in the year. Please use this link to register for an interview. 
Interview Registration Here

Confirmation Liturgy
Scheduled for Spring 2026 – exact date TBD.

What forms need to be turned in?

• Baptismal Certificate
• Sponsor Attestation Form (English or Spanish)
• Medical Release Form for the Retreat