In August of 2025, spiritual retreats for children and youth were held at the friary in Niepokalanów Lasek, Poland, a presence of the Province of the Immaculate Mother of God in Poland (Warsaw). The theme of each retreat was “Created for Relationship.”
August in Niepokalanów Lasek is traditionally marked by a strong presence of children and youth. Between July 28 and August 23, four weeks of spiritual retreats were conducted in the spirit of the Militia of the Immaculata. Three of the retreats were for children and one was for youth. In total, around 350 participants from all over Poland attended.
Each day of the retreats was dedicated to a different type of relationship, with oneself, with others, with the Lord, with Mary, and with the saints.
The retreats were led by Friar Grzegorz Maria ŚWIERKOSZ, supported by youth leaders. During the fourth retreat, Friar Grzegorz Maria SZYMANIK gave the homilies. The retreat participants engaged in group sessions, themed activities, fraternal evenings, and Eucharistic adoration.
The program also included outings to Julinek Park (a nature-themed amusement park) and, during the final retreat, a paintball match in Teresin, Poland. The third retreat featured a special guest, the newly ordained Father Kacper PAWELEC from the Diocese of Częstochowa, Poland, who imparted the blessing from his first Mass.
The children and youth also visited Niepokalanów, learning more about its history and heritage. A particularly interesting moment of the program was the “Courtroom Trial” game, during which the participants discussed the value of online and offline relationships.
The highlight of each retreat was the admission of new members into the ranks of the Militia of the Immaculata.
Sister Teresa Maria GRABOŃ, SFMI
