When is the retreat?
The Altar Servers Residential will take place from 8th–10th May 2026. You can arrive from 6pm on Friday, and the programme starts at 7pm. The weekend finishes at 2pm on Sunday.
Who is it for?
This retreat is for altar servers in Year 7 to Year 13. It’s a great chance to meet other servers from around the diocese, make new friends, and grow in your faith while serving at the altar.
What is it?
The retreat is a time to step away from your usual routine and spend time with Jesus and other young people. You’ll take part in fun activities, have time to think about your own encounters with the Lord, and explore how you can grow as a disciple and missionary disciple.
At the heart of the weekend will be prayer and liturgy, including a candlelit procession with the Blessed Sacrament, and we’ll finish together with Mass on Sunday.
Where will I be staying?
You’ll stay at The Briars, a Catholic retreat centre on the edge of the beautiful Peak District. You’ll sleep in shared en-suite dorms, arranged by age, and where possible, you’ll be with others from your parish.
There will be adults nearby at all times to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable.
The Briars address:
The Briars Catholic Youth Retreat Centre
Derby Road
Crich
Matlock
DE4 5BW
Can I attend on my own?
You need to come as part of a parish group. Each group will have at least 2 parish leaders, and there will be 1 leader for every 16 young people.
How much does it cost?
Early booking discount: The first 20 places across the whole retreat are £50 per young person.
Standard price: Any places booked after the first 20 are £65 per young person.
What’s included?
- Your accommodation
- All meals and drinks
- All sessions and activities during the retreat
- Support and supervision from the Mission Team volunteers
How do I sign up?
An adult from your parish will register your group first. After that, you’ll get instructions on how you and other young altar servers can register, along with details for any extra parish leaders joining your group.
