BYMC Toronto

As we prepare for Recharge Retreat 2026 and in honour of my 30th anniversary in youth ministry—serving the Diocese and several different churches—allow me, if you will, to reminisce about what it means to attend a Diocesan youth retreat.
These photos are from my second youth retreat, then known as Youthfest or if you were there also known as Frostfest. We camped in a field, used porta-potties, and worshipped outside all weekend.
For me, retreat has never been about where we stay, the songs we sing, or even the words that are spoken. Honestly, I cannot remember a single song we sang or message we heard that weekend.
What I do remember is how it felt to be there.
Retreat is about connecting with God and with the people around us. It is about forming relationships and discovering that we are not alone in our faith. It is about recognizing that each of us comes to God in our own way and in our own time.
As we gather for ReCharge Retreat this weekend, I invite those who have attended before to think back to their first youth retreat. Remember how it made you feel—and remind yourself why you continue to come.
If this is your first retreat, I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and connect with people beyond your own church. Open your heart and mind to new ways of worshipping God, be fully present, and take in every moment.
Retreat may last only one weekend, but the friendships and memories can last a lifetime.
P.S. Hey, leaders—at least I don’t make you wear bright neon-orange hats so everyone knows who the leaders are but if you want to wear one I still have mine!

📚🙏 Praying for all our high school students as they prepare for and write their final exams.

This time of year can bring a lot of pressure, stress, anxiety, and late nights. We’re praying that in the middle of all the studying and uncertainty, you would know God’s peace, strength, and presence with you.

May God calm anxious hearts, give clarity of mind, help you remember what you've learned, and remind you that your worth is not measured by a grade. ❤️

“You keep in perfect peace those whose mind is stayed on you.” Isaiah 26:3

We’re cheering you on and praying for you this week and next. You’ve got this. 🙏📖✨

Benefits of Youth Retreat:

Creates appreciation! Experiencing the woods and time away from the metropolitan area fosters an organic sense of wonder, helping youth connect the majesty of nature to the presence of God.

Camp Medeba is coming! Register today!

IT'LL BE HERE BEFORE YOU KNOW IT! Get your youths registered for this amazing time away from the buzz of the city for community, fellowship, contemplation and interaction!

Don't miss the early bird discount for registering for this year's ReCharge Retreat before August 1! We know how fast July can pass by, so best to do it today.

Link for more info and to register in bio.

What happens at ReCharge?

New friendships.
Campfire.
Worship.
Games.
Late-night conversations.
Talent show.
Prayer.
Lots of laughs.
Time with God.

⚡ Step away. Recharge. Live your faith. 🙏🏾

Registration is OPEN! (link in bio)
📅 September 18–20
👥 Grades 6–12

Need a weekend away? ReCharge Retreat is a chance to step away, recharge, make friends, worship, laugh, and grow in your faith together. ⚡🔥

📍 Medeba (NEW location this year)
📅 September 18–20
👥 Grades 6–12

Early Bird: $110 before August 1
Link in bio to register!

Have you heard? Registration for this year's ReCharge Youth Retreat is open!

If you register by August 1, the cost is $110, after that it will be $130. Link is in bio.

Hope to see you there!

Hope you’ve registered for this Saturday’s “Faith in Challenging Times” event. Tomorrow, April 22 is the last day to register for in-person. Online registration will remain open. See you this Saturday!

👉Have YOU registered?

On Saturday, April 25, BYMC and Trinity College will host a one-day conference titled “Faith in Challenging Times.” This day will explore how faith, scripture, and prayer equip us to lead young people with courage, compassion, and hope in the midst of adversity.

📅 Event Details
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Trinity College (University of Toronto)

You can register to attend in person or online. We hope to see you there!
https://www.trinity.utoronto.ca/study-theology/whats_on_in_divinity/faith-in-challenging-times-rooted-in-christ-ready-for-the-world/