The Big Retreat is a high-energy weekend youth retreat designed to help students grow in faith, build meaningful friendships, and step away from the distractions of everyday life. Hosted at the beautiful Circle Square Ranch (Grand River), this retreat brings together powerful worship, relevant teaching, and unforgettable experiences in a safe and fun camp environment.

Throughout the weekend, students will take part in engaging sessions, small group conversations, and classic retreat activities: games, campfires, and outdoor adventures that create space for connection and spiritual growth. Whether a student is brand new to Wilmot Youth or has been involved for years, The Big Retreat is designed to meet them where they are and challenge them to take their next step in faith.

With comfortable accommodations, great food, and caring, trusted leaders, parents can feel confident their students are well looked after. Students will leave refreshed, encouraged, and excited about what God is doing in their lives.

• Comfortable lodging and a dedicated meeting space for our group
• 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, Saturday dinner and 2 evening snacks.
• Your choice of Saturday afternoon activity
• Engaging sessions filled with worship, teaching and time in small groups

Who will be supervising my student?

Students are supervised at all times by screened and trained leaders from Wilmot Centre Church, following our established safety and supervision policies. Leaders stay on-site for the entire weekend.

What about food, allergies, and medical needs?

All meals are provided by Circle Square Ranch. Dietary restrictions, allergies, and medical information are collected during registration and shared with leaders and camp staff to ensure student safety and care.

How will transportation work?

We will be taking a group bus to Circle Square Ranch on Friday night and a bus will be returning us to Wilmot Centre on Sunday afternoon.

What should my student bring?

A packing list will be sent out after registration it will include things like: clothing, bedding, toiletries, and any required medications.

Will students be allowed to bring phones or other devices?

The Big Retreat is a device-free weekend. Students are asked to leave phones, smartwatches, and other personal devices at home. This helps students be fully present, build deeper relationships, and engage more meaningfully in the retreat experience. Leaders will have phones on hand at all times, and parents will be provided with emergency contact information prior to departure. If a specific exception is needed, please contact us in advance.

Is The Big Retreat a substance-free weekend?

Yes. The Big Retreat is a substance-free weekend. For the safety and well-being of all students and leaders, vapes, e-cigarettes, alcohol, cannabis, and any non-prescribed substances are not permitted at any time during the retreat. This expectation applies to all students and leaders. It aligns with our commitment to creating a safe, healthy, and distraction-free environment. Any concerns or questions about this policy can be discussed with our leadership team in advance.

How much does it cost and what if finances are a concern?

The cost of the retreat is $200, with an early bird rate of $170 until March 17th. Financial assistance is available. We do not want any student to miss out due to cost. If you require financial assistance please reach out to Michael Tabet at m.tabet@wilmotcentre.church

How do I contact leaders during the retreat?

Emergency contact information and leader phone numbers will be provided prior to departure.

Contact Michael Tabet at mtabet@wilmotcentre.church