Youth Faith Formation

Children’s Faith Formation (Ages Preschool - 5th Grade)

Early faith formation lays the foundation for a child’s spiritual growth. Parents are the primary teachers of the faith, and at Holy Name of Jesus Parish, our volunteer catechists and parish community walk alongside you. Together, we help children learn, pray, and grow in their relationship with Christ through weekly classes for preschool through 5th grade students.

FAITH FORMATION INFORMATION

Class time choices are 4:45-6 pm or 6:15-7:30 pm on Wednesday evenings.

Those interested in enrolling in the 2025-2026 session, please contact Jennifer at 763-745-3483.

Registration for the 2025-2026 program year is now closed. Please contact Jennifer for more information.

Important Dates:

None at this time (check back for future updates)

Catechist (Teacher) Training:

Catechist training has already occurred for this calendar year.

Helpful Information:

Childcare is available for program volunteers.
To ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults, all volunteers must complete the Essential 3:
- Sign the Archdiocesan Volunteer Code of Conduct
- Complete a background check
- Participate in Virtus.org training (renewed every three years)
- Claudia Rabaey, our parish Safe Environment Coordinator, can assist you with the process.

For questions about volunteering or for more information, please contact Jennifer at 763-745-3483.

Scroll horizontally for more options.

Wednesday Night Faith FOrmation

What Curriculum do you use at Holy Name of Jesus?

Starting Fall 2025, grades 1-5 will be using a curriculum called We Believe. Each Faith Formation student will be given a book to use throughout the year. Our Catechists (teachers) are dedicated volunteers who, guided by the lessons, will give your children a faithful presentation of the Church’s teaching. During the year, we offer opportunities to participate in the liturgical and sacramental life of the church both as individuals and within the family. While the curriculum provides guidance to passing on the teachings of the Church, the main goal of our program is to help children realize God’s love for them and to enter into a deeper relationship with Christ.

What if there are conflicts on Wednesday nights?

As a church, it’s hard to compete with sports/activities scheduling conflicts. We understand that our students might not be able to make every single session, but we also hope that families will allow their sons and daughters to miss a practice or game from time-to-time.
We also hope that Christian parents, coaches and students can be advocates for keeping Wednesday nights free for students who desire to be active in their Faith Community.

If we have a conflict, can we come to a different class?

We ask that there be no swapping of class times. If you need to make a permanent change, contact the Elementary Faith Formation Coordinator.

If you are unable to make your scheduled class time, we ask that you work on the chapter at home together for that week. Completion of the review homework can be shown to your child’s teacher when you return to class the following week.

Children’s Faith Formation Volunteer

We rely on the generosity of parents and parishioners to make Faith Formation a vibrant and welcoming experience for children. From leading lessons to lending a hand in the hallways, every role helps us build a safe and faith-filled community.

Wednesday Night Catechist

Teach classes two to four times per month (small classes of 12–15).
Lessons, activities, and materials are prepared for you; 10–20 minutes of prep time per week.
Arrive 10–15 minutes early to gather materials.
Option to teach alone or with a partner.
Substitutes available if you cannot attend (24-hour notice preferred).
Childcare available.

Wednesday Night Substitute

Serve one to three times per month as needed.
May sub in a classroom (all lessons are pre-prepared).
Flexible support roles include:
- Hallway Monitor
- Front Desk Attendant
- Classroom helper
Typically contacted with a 24-hour notice.
Childcare available.

Wednesday Night Front Desk Helper

Serve two to three times per month.
Answer phone calls from parents and track attendance updates.
Help direct parents to classrooms and supervise early pick-ups.
Childcare available.

Wednesday Night Hallway Monitor

Serve two to three times per month.
Supervise students moving between classrooms and bathrooms.
Ensure respectful behavior in hallways.
Escort children to and from Children’s Choir practice as scheduled.
Childcare available.

Vacation Bible School, June 8-11, 2026

What is VBS?

Vacation Bible School is a four-day, faith-filled AND fun-filled adventure that will be held at Holy Name of Jesus June 8-11, 2026

Who Can Participate

Children ages 4 through those entering 5th grade for the upcoming school year in the Fall are welcome to join Vacation Bible School. Preschool and kindergarten children enjoy a simplified version of VBS, designed just for them. Children must be potty-trained to participate.

What is the Cost

$60 per child before May 9, $65 per child after. Registration closes May 26. Payment is due with registration and is not refundable.

Full or partial scholarships are available, please contact Jennifer Wendt prior to registration.

What to Expect

Each day, children experience the same Bible story, Scripture verse, and theme through music, outdoor activities, crafts, and snacks. VBS is built around a four-day, four-story format, so kids leave with a deeper understanding of God’s Word.

VBS Centers

Each day at VBS, children move through different activity centers designed to bring the Bible story to life in fun and memorable ways.

Bible Story: Volunteers act out the story of the day and connect it to everyday life.
Outdoor Activities: Games reinforce the day’s lesson.
Crafts: Creative projects tie back to Scripture.
Music: Songs help children remember what they have learned.
Snack: Nutritious snacks are served daily, with dietary needs accommodated.

Volunteer Opportunities

VBS is powered by volunteers, and we welcome both teens and adults to serve.

Teen Volunteers: Students entering 6th grade and older can apply to be Group Leaders or Center Helpers. Teens apply here
Adult Volunteers: Adults can serve as group leaders, center leaders (Bible story, crafts, games, snack), or support staff (prep, nursery, nurse, clean-up, photography). Childcare is available for adult volunteers. Adult Volunteers register here

All adult volunteers must complete VIRTUS training and a background check. For details, visit our Safe Environment page.

Contact

For questions about Vacation Bible School, please contact Jennifer Wendt, Coordinator of Elementary Faith Formation.

Sunday School for Ages 3 - Kindergarten

The Sunday School program at Holy Name of Jesus Parish helps children begin their journey of faith in a joyful and supportive environment. Through lessons, prayer, song, and play, children discover that their abilities are gifts from God and that they belong to the Body of Christ.

Program Overview

Meets during the 8:30 am and 10:30 am Masses.
Classes are offered for:
- Preschool Level One: For children ages 3-4 who are new to Sunday School.
- Preschool Level Two: For children ages 4-5 with prior Sunday School or preschool experience.
- Kindergarten: For children ages 5-6 enrolled in Kindergarten.
  Children must be at least age 3 and toilet-trained to participate.

What Children Learn

Children learn about the weekly Mass readings through stories, crafts, songs, and activities that follow the liturgical year. They also:

Explore the basics of the Sacraments.
Learn about the lives of the Saints.
Grow in their sense of belonging to the Church and in their relationship with Jesus.

In the Classroom

Each class includes prayer, Scripture, a Saint story, and an activity or craft to reinforce the lesson. Songs, games, and seasonal activities add joy and variety.

FAQ

Can parents stay with their child

Yes, parents are welcome to stay until their child feels comfortable.

What if we cannot attend our usual class time?

We ask families to remain in their assigned class to help with planning. If you miss a class, you can request a lesson packet to use at home.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Wendt, Elementary Faith Formation Coordinator, at 763-745-3483.

First Reconciliation and Communion Program

This program is typically completed in 2nd grade and is designed for Holy Name of Jesus School and Faith Formation students. After receiving materials at the parent meetings, children complete the workbook at home while learning side-by-side with their parents. A morning retreat at the parish reinforces that home learning and further prepares each child to receive the Sacraments.

We focus first on preparing for First Reconciliation and then on First Communion.

Specific meeting, retreat, and Mass dates are provided each year and can be found in the registration form.

Program Outline

October – First Reconciliation Parent Meeting, in the church – parent attendance required
Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 6:30 pm or Sunday, Oct. 5 at Noon – choose one meeting, no registration necessary, only one parent needs to attend, children do not need to attend
January – First Reconciliation Retreat at HNOJ – mandatory event
The morning of Saturday, Jan. 10 or Saturday, Jan. 24 – Parent and child attend together, about an hour to hour and a half to complete, includes time for the child’s first reconciliation and for parents to attend reconciliation as well.
January – First Communion Parent Meeting, in the church – parent attendance required
Sunday, Jan. 25 at Noon or Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 6:30 pm – choose one meeting, no registration necessary, only one parent needs to attend, children do not need to attend, Fr. Wratkowski will talk.
March – First Communion Retreat at HNOJ – mandatory event
The morning of Saturday, March 7– Parent and child attend together, about an hour and a half to two hours to complete.
April – First Communion Masses
– Six options, the registration link for First Communion Masses will open at 8:30 pm on Tuesday, Jan. 27.
Saturday, April 18 at 5 p.m., Sunday, April 19 at 8:30 am and 10:30 am
Saturday, April 25 at 5 p.m., Sunday, April 26 at 8:30 am and 10:30 am

Children's Holy Hour

Families of HNOJ, come together for a joyful hour of family formation on the first Friday of each month from October to May (except for January and April), from 4–5 pm. Meet in the Emmaus Rooms for a brief introduction, then head to the main church for 20–30 minutes of Eucharistic Adoration, a prayerful encounter with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, followed by a fun and engaging family faith activity. All are welcome, including squirmy and noisy toddlers and babies – bring everyone to grow closer to Jesus together!

We will have a different topic each month.

Dec. 5 – Advent
Feb. 6 – Parables
March 6 – Lent
May 1 – Mary Mother of God

Questions? Email Maria.

Middle School Ministry (6-8)

Welcome to the CREW

At Holy Name of Jesus Parish, THE CREW is not just the name of a program. It is who our teens are. Whether it is Confirmation, Faith Formation, a retreat, or summer sports, when our teens gather, THE CREW is there.

No matter who you are or where you are in your faith, you are welcome at THE CREW. You will meet other teens who are working on developing an authentic faith that is learned, lived, and loved. We will have fun, grow in friendship, and get serious about what really matters: building stronger relationships with God and with one another.

Mission Statement

Holy Name of Jesus Youth Ministry seeks to inspire and equip young people to become disciples of Jesus Christ in the world today.

Schedule and Curriculum

MS Crew meets Wednesdays from 6:15–7:30 pm from Sept. 24, 2025, to May 6, 2026, and offers middle schoolers (grades 6–8) a small-group experience focused on faith, scripture, and community.

Each night includes rotations through a weekly lesson, small-group discussion, and an activity. The curriculum draws from EDGE by LifeTeen, the Bible, the Catechism, the YouCat, YDisciple, and FORMED.org. Students receive a Catholic Youth Bible for prayer and study and are encouraged to bring a notebook. Each group of about ten teens is led by adult Small Group Leaders who facilitate conversation and prayer using prepared materials. Parents are essential to the program’s success and may lead solo, co-lead, or alternate weeks.

Participants may request one friend to be in their group, though placement depends on registration timing, size, and leader availability. Registration is $125 (May–July 31, 2025) or $150 (Aug. 1–Sept. 13); for questions, contact Luke Klavins.

Scroll horizontally for more options.

Friday Night Alive

Friday Night Alive (FNA) is a monthly event at Holy Name of Jesus for middle schoolers to build friendships and grow in faith. Each evening includes fun activities such as open gym, team 4-square, gaga ball, crafts, and more. Teens also share in prayer and hear relatable talks from our high school core team.

We start the night with a meal at 5:30 pm and wrap up at 8:30 pm

Who: All 5th–8th graders
Cost: Free
Bring a Friend: Walk-ins are welcome, but RSVPs are appreciated to help us plan food. To RSVP, email Luke Klavins.

Upcoming Dates:

Nov. 14, 2025
Jan. 16, 2026
Feb. 27, 2026
March 27, 2026
April 24, 2026

Camp Punch Card

To help offset the cost of Extreme Faith Camp, students receive $5 off their camp registration for every FNA they attend (up to $30 total).

Extreme Faith Camp

Extreme Faith Camp is a high-adventure, high-faith summer experience for middle schoolers. Campers enjoy activities like high ropes, laser tag, zip lines, and climbing walls while deepening their faith through prayer, the Sacraments, and community. Led by parishes across the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, this camp is designed to be more than just a mountaintop experience. It builds a foundation for lifelong faith. EFC will take place July 13-17, 2026.

Who Can Attend?

Open to Holy Name of Jesus parishioners in 6th-8th grades
Space is limited to 31 campers and early registration is encouraged
High school Core Team members serve as small group leaders
Camp is held each summer at Trinity Woods Camp and Retreat Center in Trego, Wisconsin

Faith at Camp

What sets Extreme Faith Camp apart is the central role of the Sacraments:

Daily Mass
Opportunities for Reconciliation
Eucharistic Adoration
Small groups and prayer experiences centered on the camp theme

Cost and Registration

$150 deposit required at registration (non-refundable after June 1)
$520 base cost with tiered pricing based on registration date:
- December–April: $520
- May 1–June 1: $560
Payment can be made in full or in installments (monthly reminders sent)
Final balance due June 1
Refunds available until June 1 (after that, only if a replacement camper is found)
If camp fills, a waitlist will be maintained; families will have 72 hours to accept an open spot

Camp Punch Card

Middle schoolers can reduce camp costs by attending [Friday Night Alive]. Each FNA attended earns $5 off camp registration (up to $30 total).

How to Help

Pray for our campers and leaders
Volunteer as a chaperone (costs covered by the parish)
Serve as a nurse or doctor (stipends available)
Contribute to the Camp Scholarship Fund to help more students attend

Questions?

Contact Luke Klavins.

Why Send Your Child?

Parents consistently describe Extreme Faith Camp as life-changing for their children:

"They came back energized and could not wait to return!”

“He had the time of his life, but what stuck with him most was Adoration.”

“Before camp, faith was on the surface. After camp, it was alive in his heart.”

Luke 18 Retreat

This long-adored retreat experience is available to 6th to 8th graders. Middle schoolers are invited into a relationship with Christ while having epic fun and being led by our phenomenal high school Core Team.

God so loved the world that He sent His only Son to save us. But why do we need to be saved? How did God go about saving us? What does this look like in our everyday life 2000 years after Jesus died on the cross?

This retreat unfolds for the youth the incredible story of the salvation of all humanity. They will see that humanity was created in a perfect relationship with God and all of creation, but that this relationship was broken by the first sin of Adam and Eve. The retreat also shows that God’s plan of salvation began at the Fall and was fulfilled once and for all in Jesus Christ. Youth will be inspired to go forth from this retreat as disciples of Jesus to share the great news of salvation with others.

For questions, please contact Luke at 763-746-8195.

Details:

Luke 18 is Dec. 12-13, 2025, at HNOJ.
Friday, Dec. 12, the retreat will run 6:30-10 pm. All participants will go home to sleep and return in the morning.
Saturday, Dec. 13, the retreat will continue at 9 am and officially end at 8:30 pm with Adoration.
Cost is $75.

What’s the Goal of Luke 18?

To empower middle school teens to live as disciples of Jesus Christ today. How? No gimmicks, real faith sharing, fun talks, great small groups, authentic relationships, and an entire weekend for and with middle school teens.

Psalm 78 Retreat

Psalm 78 is an unforgettable weekend of fun, rest, friendship, and an encounter with our loving God. Led by our incredible Core Team of high school students, middle schoolers who attend this retreat experience the joy and excitement of life when we stay connected to the Church.

The retreat is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th graders at Holy Name of Jesus Parish and School. It takes place on campus at the parish Friday, May 15, 6:30-10 pm and Saturday, May 16, 9 am-8:30 pm. Parents are invited to join for the closing Mass at 5 pm on Saturday followed by dinner and Adoration.

The cost is $60 before May 1. Registrations received between May 2 and March 12 are $75. The fee includes a retreat t-shirt, lunch, and dinner on Saturday, and helps cover retreat materials. Registrations after May 1 are not guaranteed a t-shirt. There is no cost for 9th–12th grade leaders.

High School Ministry (9-12 Grades)

You belong here. Every teen at Holy Name of Jesus Parish has a place in our community and is called to a fulfilling life as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Our mission is to walk with you through the ups and downs of high school life. Whether you have questions about faith, want to grow in your relationship with Jesus, or simply need a place to belong, you are welcome at SH CREW.

SH CREW includes all Faith Formation and Youth Ministry programs for high school teens:

Confirmation preparation
Retreats
Teen Core Team
Weekly gatherings and special events

Each of these opportunities helps teens grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and find a supportive community of peers.

For questions, contact Eve Edwards.

Teen Core Team

The Teen Core Team is a community of high school teens who commit to serve as leaders in youth ministry at Holy Name of Jesus Parish. Members grow in faith, build friendships, and help guide the vision of THE CREW.

What Teen Core Team members do:

Grow in discipleship through prayer and study
Build community with peers
Serve at youth ministry events
Help plan and lead events: giving talks, leading small groups, and assisting with logistics
Participate in the annual Teen Core Team retreat, all Sunday events, and selected middle school events

Requirements:

Love for Jesus Christ and His Church
Be in grades 9–12
Sign the volunteer code of conduct (provided at first meeting)
If 18, complete a background check and Virtus training

For questions about the Teen Core Team, contact Eve Edwards.

Confirmation with THE CREW

Confirmation preparation at Holy Name of Jesus Parish is a two-year journey of discipleship. Teens grow in faith through retreats, Formation Sundays, small groups, and service opportunities, supported by the larger CREW community.

By the end of the program, students complete two retreats: one overnight retreat (completed in Year 1 or Year 2) and one one-day Confirmation retreat (completed in Year 2).

See Opportunities for All Confirmation Students below.

Scroll horizontally for more options.

Confirmation Year 1 (Typically 9th Graders)

Year 1 focuses on building a foundation of faith through Formation Sundays and participation in one overnight retreat. Students also attend a parent + student kickoff meeting in the fall.

Requirements

During Year 1, students begin Confirmation preparation by attending Formation Sundays and completing one overnight retreat. Each student must complete one overnight retreat (in Year 1 or Year 2) and one one-day retreat (in Year 2).

Students are also encouraged to participate in Life Nights and the Middle School Discipleship Team

Parent + Student Meeting

This kickoff meeting introduces families to the Confirmation program, reviews expectations, and provides space for questions.

Date: Sept. 28
Time: 4–5:15 pm

Formation Sundays

Formation Sundays are a required part of Year 1 preparation. These evenings feature Catholic youth speakers, transformational prayer, Scripture, Adoration, and small groups, helping teens grow in their relationship with Christ.

Students may miss up to two per year without an emergency excuse
Dates: Nov. 9; Dec. 7, 14; Jan. 4; Feb. 1, 22; March 8; April 12, 26
Time: 7–8:30 pm

Retreat Requirement

Year 1 students can begin fulfilling their retreat requirement by choosing one overnight retreat.

Fall Retreat: Nov. 21–23, 2025
Winter Faith Camp: Feb. 13–17, 2026 (President’s Day weekend)
Spring Retreat: March 13–15, 2026
Steubenville Conference: July 24-26 2026

Cost

Early Bird (April–July 31): $150
Regular (Aug. 1–Sept. 13): $200

Questions? Contact Eve Edwards

Confirmation Year 2 (Typically 10th graders)

Year 2 focuses on immediate preparation for the Sacrament. Students continue with Formation Sundays, complete an overnight retreat (if not already completed in Year 1) and a one-day Confirmation retreat, and take part in other preparation steps, including choosing a sponsor, selecting a Confirmation saint, writing a letter of intent, and attending an exit interview.

Formation Sundays

Formation Sundays remain a required part of Year 2 preparation. These evenings feature Catholic youth speakers, transformational prayer, Scripture, Adoration, and small groups, with a focus on preparing for Confirmation.

Students may miss up to two per year without an emergency excuse
Dates: Nov. 9; Dec. 7, 14; Jan. 4, 25; Feb. 1, 22; March 8; April 12, 26; May 3
Time: 7–8:30 pm

Retreat Requirement

By the end of Year 2, all students must have completed both:

One overnight retreat: If not already completed in Year 1, students must attend one this year.
One one-day Confirmation retreat: This retreat focuses specifically on Confirmation and is required for every student, even if they choose to attend multiple overnight retreats.
- Feb. 8, 2026
- Runs 9 am–3:30 pm at Holy Name of Jesus Parish

Sponsor and Confirmation Saint

Students choose a sponsor to walk with them during preparation and select a Confirmation saint as a model of faith.

Letter of Intent

Each student writes a letter of intent to the pastor, expressing their desire to be confirmed and their understanding of the Sacrament.

Exit Interview

Students complete a brief interview with a parish leader to reflect on their preparation and readiness to receive Confirmation.

Rite of Sending and Confirmation Prep

This gathering marks the final stage of preparation. Students, parents, and sponsors attend Mass together and review logistics for the Confirmation Mass.

Date: May 3, 2026 (subject to Archdiocese scheduling)
Includes Mass at 5:30 pm, followed by a logistics meeting

Cost

Early Bird (April–July 31): $150
Regular (Aug. 1–Sept. 10): $200

Questions? Contact Eve Edwards

Opportunities for All Confirmation Students

Life Nights

Life Nights are open to all teens in the program. They provide a chance to build friendships, share meals, and grow in faith through prayer, games, and community.

Begins with Mass at 5:30 pm, followed by dinner and programming until 8:30 pm
Dates: Nov. 2, 16; Dec. 21; Jan. 11, 18; March 1, 22; April 19; May 17, 31; June 7

Middle School Discipleship Team (MSDT)

High school teens serve as leaders for middle school students while continuing to grow in their own faith. Teens in MSDT are expected to receive in order to give.

Ways to Receive: Attend Formation Sundays, Life Night, or one high school retreat
Ways to Serve: Friday Night Alive, middle school retreats (Psalm 78, Luke 18, Extreme Faith Camp), MS Crew on Wednesdays

Contact Luke Klavins for more information

Post Confirmation Registration (Typically 11th and 12th graders)

After Confirmation, teens are invited to continue growing as disciples through small group formation. Groups provide a space to deepen prayer, study Scripture, and learn how to live out faith in daily life. Post-Confirmation students gather together on Sunday evenings and go directly into their small group meeting locations.

Dates: Nov. 9; Dec. 7, 14; Jan. 4, 25; Feb. 1, 22; March 8; April 12, 26
Time: 7–8:30 pm

Questions? Contact Eve Edwards

Confirmation FAQ's

What is Confirmation?

Confirmation is a Sacrament that strengthens us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit and obliges us to witness, spread, and defend the faith (CCC 1303). It completes our initiation as Catholic Christians (CCC 1306). Confirmation is not graduation from learning the faith or a choice point about remaining Catholic – it is the Church’s way of equipping us to live as missionary disciples.

When does Confirmation preparation begin and end?

Most teens begin preparation immediately following their 8th-grade year. At HNOJ, this is normally a two-year process: students enter in 9th grade, are confirmed in 10th grade, and then continue to grow in discipleship through post-Confirmation small groups in 11th and 12th grade.

Is the preparation process enough on its own?

The program provides a minimum framework for Confirmation preparation, but it is not the end of faith formation. Teens (and families) are called to be lifelong disciples of Christ, continually growing through prayer, worship, study, and service.

Why are retreats emphasized?

Retreats are a vital part of preparation. They allow teens to step away from the busyness of daily life and make space for a personal, transformational encounter with Christ. Retreats with the HNOJ community provide rest, fun, prayer, and opportunities to reflect on life, faith, and God’s call. Parents consistently share that retreats are often the most impactful part of their teen’s Confirmation journey.

SH CREW NET Retreat Feb. 8, 2026

The purpose of this retreat is to provide confirmation candidates with an opportunity to reflect on their upcoming confirmation. We are partnering with NET Ministries to provide this confirmation specific retreat!

When: Sunday, Feb. 8

Where: Holy Name of Jesus, Wayzata

Cost: $35

Who: Open to all confirmation students

Why: We will dive deeper into the sacrament of confirmation and the gifts of the Holy Spirit

Lunch will be provided!

Questions? Contact Eve Edwards

Steubenville Youth Conference

The Steubenville Youth Conference is a weekend-long Catholic youth conference. Music, speakers, entertainment, small groups, Eucharistic Adoration and more. (Actually, it’s kinda like a weekend-long concert with friends.)

Where: The conference is held in St. Paul, MN at the University of St. Thomas. We will be staying in the dorms on campus.

Who: All current 8th-12th grade students can attend. The weekend is chaperoned by staff and volunteers from HNOJ. All have been background checked and have received Virtus training.

When: July 24-26, 2026. We leave Friday afternoon and return Sunday afternoon. Students will need to be dropped off and picked up at the University of St. Thomas. Drop off will be 2:30 pm on Friday and pick up at 12:15 pm on Sunday.

Cost: $325 (if paid on or before April 3), or $350 April 4 or after. This covers the cost of the weekend, t-shirt, and meals during the conference. Scholarships are available. Note: No refunds can be given after May 10.

Registration: There will be a two part registration. One through HNOJ and one through Partnership for Youth. Eve will send the second part of registration from Partnership for Youth once it is released and once you have registered.

Questions? Contact Eve Edwards

Winter Faith Camp

Winter Faith Camp is Feb. 13-16, 2026
Where: Trinity Woods Catholic Retreat Center-Hoinville Rd, Trego, WI 54888
Who: For all high schoolers in 9th-12th grade at HNOJ
Transportation: Bus
Drop Off: Friday, Feb. 13, at 5 pm at Our Lady of Grace in Edina
Pick Up: Monday, Feb. 16, at 3:30 pm at Our Lady of Grace in Edina
Cost: Early bird: $300 until Dec. 14; includes three-night stay, all meals, t-shirt, and cost of materials for the retreat. Price will increase to $350 on Dec. 15.

Registration is now closed.

Questions? Contact Eve Edwards

Spring Retreat, March 13-15, 2026

The CREW’s Spring Retreat is for teenagers who are looking for a weekend to get away, have fun and make friends and memories that will last a lifetime. After a weekend of deep conversations, serious fun, and prayer that goes deeper, God is closer, and faith makes sense.

Why go on retreat? We go on retreat to step back and retreat from the stresses of everyday life. A weekend retreat at Koronis Ministries in Paynesville, MN, is exactly that, an opportunity to take a break, relax, think, talk, and pray about who we are, why we are here, and what our faith has to do with it all. Rarely do we take the time we need to get away from it all. THE CREW’s Fall Retreat is your chance. It is worth every minute. This retreat is open to all high school teens.

The weekend is run by HNOJ staff and volunteers. We do all the planning, give all the talks and lead the small groups. This retreat fosters excitement amongst our teens, creating a desire to return to HNOJ and be involved in the growth of our parish.

Details

What: A weekend retreat; during the weekend, we will hear talks, have discussions, pray, relax, play sports, spend time outdoors, dance, play, talk, and grow closer to others and God.

Where: Koronis Ministries in Paynesville, MN. This is an ideal location to get away and experience God in the outdoors. Resort-like facilities make for a comfortable weekend. It’s like going to a cabin with all your friends.

Who: 9th -12th grade teens.

When: March 13-15, 2026. We get away for a whole weekend, from 5:30 pm on Friday to approximately 3 pm on Sunday.

Contact: Eve Edwards, Coordinator of Senior High Youth Ministry

Cost: Early Bird- $175 until Feb. 3; Regular price: $200.

Registration due by Feb. 20.

What You Need to Know about the Spring Retreat

Friday Evening: Dinner will not be provided on Friday evening, so teens should pack a dinner to eat on the bus! We will provide them with breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturday and breakfast and lunch on Sunday.

Mass: We will have Mass for our teens over the weekend. This way, they will be able to return home, work on homework and prepare for their week. However, they are more than welcome to attend 5:30 pm on Sunday at HNOJ too.

Packing List:

We have limited room for bags, so please pack just enough clothes for the weekend and leave all extra “stuff” at home. If your bag is too big, you will have to sit with it on your lap for the 1.5 hour bus ride.
Two days of comfortable clothes – We will spend time both outside and inside, unless the conditions are extreme, so come prepared for both.
Warm Outdoor Clothes – You never know what the weather has in store.
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo)
Bedding and pillow if desired. (The retreat site has pillows, sheets, and blankets. The blankets are a bit thin.)
Snack to share with the group (i.e., a large bag of chips, brownies, homemade cookies, etc.)
Bible, journal, and writing utensil

Things You Won’t Need (a.k.a. Don’t Bring): MP3 player (iPod, etc.), watches, cell phones, pagers, radios, CD players, gaming console, TV’s, spaghetti string tops, clothes that show midriffs, low-cut pants, high-cut shorts, offensive shirts. If you have a question about something, feel free to ask. However, chances are you would be better off not bringing it. We ask that you don’t bring a watch because we want you to participate, not anticipate!

Emergency Contact Information:

Eve Washburn: the best way to communicate is via email. You can call our office lines and your voicemails will get sent to our emails.

Koronis Ministries: 320-243-4544

Nearest Hospital:
200 West First Street, Paynesville, MN 56362
320-243-3767

Questions? Contact Eve Edwards