This has since blossomed into a thriving ministry that meets weekly for Eucharistic Adoration, spiritual formation through the writings of St. Peter Julian Eymard, and fellowship. The annual retreat has become a cornerstone of the ministry – a much-anticipated summertime tradition that helps ground and strengthen both the individuals in their faith and the wider community.

“The retreat works as almost a reset button in my life and faith journey,” shared Amanda Merimee, one of the group’s founding members who helped establish and grow the ministry a decade ago. 

“As someone who stays super busy, it allows me to reflect and get back on track.”

Fellow retreatant Jim Marsh added "I often forget the graces which I have been given over the years but retreats like this bring back the memories.”

The weekend featured keynote talks, small group discussions, community-building games, spiritual exercises including Lectio Divina, opportunities for rest and reflection, and encounters with Christ through both Eucharistic Adoration and the sacraments. Many of the young adults who attended were deeply moved by these powerful encounters with Christ.  

“Adoration was the moment that truly stood out to me– especially the Eucharistic procession,” shared Megan Hyatt. 

“When the Blessed Sacrament was brought to me, time stopped.”

For Andrea Suarez, it was the Sacrament of Reconciliation that was an impactful experience: “It was my highlight – I experienced the Lord’s mercy through my confessor, who was extremely gentle and taught me a beautiful prayer for forgiveness. I left sobbing!”  

The Apostles of the Eucharist ministry has provided a space for young adults to enrich their faith within the context of community. "It helps to be part of a young adult group with members of different backgrounds, vocations, and beliefs,” said Mark Thivierge. “It means that I can learn a lot from them, and vice versa!”  

Christian Peterson, a member since 2017, reflected “Being able to talk to so many amazing people made me feel more connected to my faith.”

Yet for many young adults, finding that connection is a challenge. “The rise in isolation with young adults has caused people to fall away from the faith,” said Rachel Kimball.  

Christopher Poole, another retreat attendant, echoed this concern, adding, “It is very difficult for people our age to find community among other Catholics in a similar stage of life post-college. But community is important - iron sharpens iron.”  

Some, like Jacob Guardado, find community in their parish, and are deeply impacted by the ministries they commit to serving. As the Middle School Youth Minister at St. Paul Catholic Church, Jacob shared “It’s moved me so much that I now want to serve and work in the same parish where I’ve grown as a young adult."

Guardado also emphasized the importance of the communal aspect of the ministry, “In this group you’ll find friends who stay, a safe place to land, and a home where you can be fully yourself. Whether you're studying, working, single, married, or still figuring things out—this is a space that meets you where you are and walks with you toward where God is calling you.”  

Noah McLellan summarized it simply “The group has helped me to feel more united with other people who I may not have been able to connect with otherwise.”  

The testimonies of these retreat participants underscore the vital role young adult ministry plays - not only in their personal lives, but in the life of the Church. Through these important ministries, young Catholics can build friendships grounded in Christ and grow in deeper relationship with Him.  

To learn more about youth and young adult ministry in the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, follow DOSP Young Church on Instagram and Facebook. To connect with the Apostles of the Eucharist, follow @apostlesoftheeucharist on Instagram.