On Friday 21 February 2020, the University will host the Leeds Retreat for the fourth year running, in partnership with Youth 2000, an international movement which seeks to connect young people of Catholic faith.

The three-day retreat brings together young people aged 16-35 through friendship, prayer, praise and fun social activities. The theme for this year’s event is based on ‘The Parable of the Prodigal Son’ (Luke 15:31) and will explore the concept of forgiveness, with over 200 people expected to attend.

Established in 1990, Youth 2000 retreats give young Catholics the opportunity to meet like-minded people and learn more about their faith through prayer and social teaching workshops, which they can then share with their local community. The retreats have been held worldwide, in 40 countries.

Workshops at the 2020 Leeds Retreat will be delivered by the Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal from St. Clare Convent, Father Agnellus Murphy OFM Conv (Order of Friars Minor Conventual) and Mary’s Meals, a global movement which supports communities affected by poverty and hunger through school feeding programmes.  

Thomas Starkie, Youth 2000 Gapper at Leeds Trinity Chaplaincy, said: “A big part of my job is helping to coordinate the Leeds Retreat, and I am immensely looking forward to seeing it all happen. What makes Youth 2000 so appealing is that it is run by young people for young people, making Leeds Trinity an ideal location.

“I would warmly encourage all young people to attend the retreat – whether as a practising Catholic, someone who has maybe been a bit distant from the faith, or anyone who’s just curious about Catholicism. With thought-provoking talks and workshops covering everything from Church teachings to the very moving accounts of people’s personal journeys, and plenty of time to socialise as well as worship, I certainly get a lot out of the retreats, even after eight years!”

Bishop Marcus Stock will conduct the Opening Mass of the retreat, and Mia McHugh, Lay Chaplain at Leeds Trinity University will deliver a key note speech.

Speaking ahead of the retreat, Mia said: “The Leeds Retreat will be a completely new experience for me, and I am really looking forward to it. The retreat is set to be a weekend of friendship, prayer and fun, where we come together as a community of young people to grow in our relationship with God with the support of the Church.

“I will be facilitating the weekend and leading a talk, but I’ll also be staying on campus and getting involved as a first timer. So, if you’re considering buying a ticket but are unsure what to expect, then don’t worry, we’re in this together and it’ll be great! Whether you’re a first timer like me or a Youth 2000 veteran, you are so welcome.”

The Leeds Retreat 2020 is open to anyone between the ages of 16 and 35. If you are under 18 you will need to be accompanied by someone who is over 18, and families are also welcome. Tickets cost £55 for adults, and £45 for students.