Ascend Youth Leadership Retreat

Ascend
To the Heights 
A Leadership Retreat for High School Students
July 27-29, 2026

Register Now

Ascend is a three day Catholic leadership retreat for high school students who want to go deeper in their faith, discover how God has gifted them, and return home ready to lead.

You don’t have to wait until you’re older to lead. God is already calling you right now, where you are. The world needs leaders formed by Christ, not just talented, but transformed.

Come as you are. Leave ready for more.

WHAT HAPPENS AT ASCEND
You’ll encounter God, not just talk about Him.
Each day is anchored in prayer, Mass and Adoration, not as a program element, but as the heartbeat of every day.

You’ll find out how God wired you.
Understand how God uniquely wired you and how your personality is a gift to the people around you.

You’ll receive formation in leadership.
You’ll learn and practice the skills that matter: sharing your faith, leading a small group, and navigating hard conversations with courage and charity.

You’ll go home with a plan and a community.
Every student leaves Ascend commissioned with a concrete action plan and a small group that continues meeting, and a fire for what God is calling them to do in their community right now.

WHO THIS IS FOR
Any high school student who wants to grow in faith and leadership. You don’t need to have it all figured out,  just bring an open heart and a willingness to show up.
Open to all approaching 9th grade to 12th grade students.
*A reference letter from a youth minister, teacher, or coach is required.

FOR YOUTH MINISTERS/LEADERS
You know which students in your group are ready to step up. Ascend gives them the space and formation to do exactly that.
You’ll co-lead your students’ small group on-site, spend time with other youth ministers from across the Archdiocese, and leave with a formation guide to sustain the momentum in your own parish.
Nominate a student. Register together. Climb alongside them.

Register Now

COST
$200 per youth
$150 per adult
Scholarships are available upon request for those with a financial need.
To request a scholarship or for additional questions, contact Garth Pereira, Director of Youth Ministry Services at garth.pereira@seattlearch.org

Sponsored by the Archdiocese of Seattle’s Youth Ministry.