I am Called – I am Sent: The Diocesan Confirmation Retreat
By Kristine Rilling11/11/2025
The day began with a quiet buzz of anticipation as teens from across the Diocese of Erie arrived at Gannon University for this year’s diocesan Confirmation Retreat. Hosted by the Faith Formation Office with the support of Bishop Lawrence Persico, the retreat welcomed over 400 students and parish leaders who came ready to prepare their hearts for the sacrament of Confirmation. Each young person stepped into the retreat’s theme—I AM CALLED – I AM SENT—entering a day set apart for encounter, reflection and the stirring of the Holy Spirit.
Damascus Ministries, a missionary movement dedicated to awakening and empowering young Catholics, partnered with the diocese to lead the retreat. Thanks to the Catholic Services Appeal and a generous grant from the Catholic Foundation, the entire experience was offered free of charge, ensuring every student could participate fully in this day of faith and formation.
Retreat leaders greeted the students with warm smiles, registration badges and the promise that this would be no ordinary Saturday. There was a sense in the air that God had something planned—something meant specifically for each young heart who had said “yes” to being here.
By the time everyone entered the Yehl Alumni Ballroom Room for the morning session, the atmosphere had shifted. Music filled the space and conversations blended into laughter. Gannon University President Walter Iwanenko warmly welcomed the teens, proudly noting that Gannon is one of seven diocesan universities in the nation—then, with a grin, invited everyone to stand and join him in doing “the wave,” filling the room with laughter and energy.
It wasn’t long before the retreat was in full motion, woven with moments of games, prayer and discovery as the teens began a day that would shape their journey toward Confirmation.
The first talk invited the teens to reflect on God’s personal call in their lives. A small worship band began to play, and soon the room filled with the sound of teens singing along—some shyly, some boldly, but all carried by the joy of praising God together.
Lively retreat games were sprinkled throughout the morning, keeping the teens engaged and moving. But they weren’t just for fun; every round was crafted to help the teens grow in trust, teamwork and the realization that joy has a place in a faith journey. Each talk delved deeper, encouraging the candidates to listen for the whisper of the Holy Spirit amid the noise of daily life.
As noon approached, the group split for lunch and reflection sessions, rotating so each teen had the chance to receive the sacrament of reconciliation or sit quietly in a meaningful, reflective way.
After lunch, the teens returned for Adoration. The response that followed was powerful. Kneeling in the Yehl Room, transformed for reverence, the teens were invited to bring their worries, hopes and futures before Christ truly present.
Bishop Persico concluded the retreat with Mass. In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the meaning of Confirmation, gently reminding the teens that this sacrament is rooted in their baptismal calling—a calling that marks them as beloved and sends them forth as witnesses. He spoke about the feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, inviting them to see the church not just as a building but as the living body of Christ—and themselves as essential members of that body.
With warmth and pastoral tenderness, he encouraged the candidates to stay close to Christ, to remain part of the church, and to let their upcoming Confirmation be not an end—but a beginning.
“Let us ask Jesus,” he said, “to purify us and make us one with Him. May our union with Him drive out all division and enmity from our hearts so we can become fully integrated into His body and provide a channel through which all people can receive God’s life-giving grace.”
The retreat closed with the final blessing. Teens stepped out into the evening air tired but bright-eyed, clutching their schedules, retreat shirts and newfound convictions. They came as candidates—but they left as young disciples, strengthened, encouraged and ready for the journey ahead.
View photos from the retreat here.
-