A few of the more frequently asked
questions we have received during past Parent Meetings include:Does my child have to
attend the retreat?
The retreat is a required portion of our Confirmation Preparation program. The Bishop has
tasked each Parish Pastor and the Director of Religious Education with the responsibility
of letting him know which candidates are ready to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
In addition to regular class attendance, the retreat gives us the added opportunity to
teach, prepare and assess each candidate.
Are Parents welcome at the retreat?
We need parents at the retreat. The Holy Cross Staff welcomes parents who would like to be
small group leaders or overnight chaperones to join us on retreat. In addition, parents
are welcome to drop by anytime during the retreat to see for themselves how things are
going. Directions to Singing Hills are available at www.singinghills.net.
What about the weather – it is January?
For two of the last four years we have pushed our departure out until early Saturday
morning because of the weather. We will not leave if the weather is bad, and will let you
know if there is going to be a delay.
What can I do to help?
Each year we ask parents to donate snacks and drinks for the retreat. While three very
large meals are provided each day, teenagers do get hungry and thirsty during the retreat
sessions. Any snack food, bottled or flavored water, juice or goodies are welcome and
appreciated.
My teenager told me they really don’t want to go on the retreat.
We have found that many teens express a strong desire NOT to go on retreat to their
parents. This is completely understandable. We also find that they all return from retreat
glad that they went – most saying “it was nothing like I expected!” Please
do what you can to support your child’s decision to attend the retreat.