The Story Behind the Retreat
Growing up, retreats with my youth and campus ministry were some of the most pivotal moments of my life. Those weekends fostered my relationship with God and my Catholic community in ways I’ll always cherish. After college, navigating the “wild, wild west” of adult life, I realized something was missing—a retreat for young adults.
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The young adult community is a unique and often overlooked demographic, yet we need retreats and authentic community just as much as anyone. I saw how easy it was for my peers and me to get caught up in worldly pursuits, losing sight of what truly matters: the pursuit of Heaven. This realization planted a desire in my heart to create what was lacking. Though it took a few years to discern the call—and maybe a few distractions along the way—the time finally came to make that dream a reality.
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As I began building this retreat, I often related to Noah—not knowing how it would all happen, but trusting the call to “start building.” Through the grace of God, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, The Vigilant Retreat was born. Our first retreat in May 2022 brought together over 90 young adults from across the diocese and beyond. It was a weekend full of blessings, and it became clear that this was something truly needed. Since then, we’ve hosted this retreat annually, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, priests, and speakers.
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While we can strive to live faithfully day-to-day, there’s something profoundly renewing about stepping away to be surrounded by a community of people pursuing the same ultimate goal. A weekend like this refocuses us on what truly matters: staying awake, keeping watch, and joyfully anticipating our Lord and Savior as we grow into the saints we’re called to be.
Thank you for your interest and support. I look forward to welcoming you to our next retreat!
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In Jesus, Mary, and Joseph,
Katie Cosby
Founder and Director of The Vigilant Retreat
FAQs
What is The Vigilant Retreat?
The Vigilant Retreat was founded in 2022 for Young Adult Catholics in the Charlotte area and is organized by St. Ann Catholic Church's young adult ministry. The primary goal of the retreat is to inspire one another to "stay awake". The devil works hard to distract us from what matters, and it is so easy to not even realize how sleepy and comfortable we have become.
Through prayer, inspiring & informative talks, small group discussions, the sacraments, and more, it is our hope that this retreat leaves you more vigilant than when you arrived.
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Who is it for?
The retreat is for Catholic young adults, ages 21–39, who reside in the Diocese of Charlotte, NC. It is open to both men and women, whether single or married. However, small groups will be single-gender, and there will be separate breakout tracks for men and women.​
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When is it?
Our 4th annual conference will be March 14-16, 2025. It is a weekend-long, overnight experience. We will begin in the evening with dinner and introductions, followed by a couple of activities. While we'd love to have you join from the start, if you are unable to get to the retreat until later, we can work to accommodate. We will wrap up early Sunday afternoon (Mass will be in the morning).
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What is happening at the retreat?
This retreat will have a variety of elements, including, but not limited to: daily Mass (Saturday & Sunday), adoration (including overnight adoration from Saturday-Sunday), talks from gifted speakers, small group discussions, confession, reflection time, and more!
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What is included in the retreat dues?
Two nights' lodging in a private room with double beds + private bathroom, six delicious meals, a t-shirt, a weekend-long transformative experience, multiple excellent talks, and more.
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How do I sign up?
Registration will open soon! Once you have submitted the form, you can submit your retreat dues online via the St. Ann's website-- there is a link to the payment page on the homepage of thevigilantretreat.com and also on the St. Ann's homepage. Be sure to include your name in the box and accurate payment amount.
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Note: This is not the same thing as the St. Ann online giving page, which does include a line item for donations towards the retreat.
Organizations who have supported our mission!
St. Ann Catholic Church
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