Year 5 Retreat Day Brings Faith, Formation and Fun to Local Pupils

On Wednesday 4th November, we were delighted to welcome 45 Year 5 pupils from Holy Cross & All Saints Primary School, Eccles, for a special retreat day at All Saints, celebrating the feast of All Saints and helping young people grow in faith, character and community.

The day began with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Blaise Nsangou, with two pupils confidently proclaiming the readings. For many children, participating in Mass and spending time in church outside of their usual school setting provided a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith and encounter the beauty of the Church’s traditions.

Throughout the morning, the pupils took part in a series of interactive sessions designed to nurture both their spiritual and personal development.

One group explored the lives of the saints through catechesis led by Daniella, with a particular focus on St Francis of Assisi as we celebrate the Jubilee Year of St Francis. Through the stories of the saints, the children were encouraged to reflect on holiness, courage, service and God’s call in their own lives.

The children also enjoyed a guided tour of All Saints Church led by Gary, learning about the history, symbolism and sacred spaces of the church and discovering how the building itself points us towards God.

Meanwhile, across the road at All Saints Boxing Gym, the second group took part in a session led by volunteer coaches Mike and Chris. Through non-contact boxing activities, the children learnt important Christian virtues and life skills including discipline, perseverance, self-control, respect and teamwork. The unique combination of faith and sport helps young people recognise their God-given dignity while developing confidence and resilience.

The groups then swapped activities, ensuring every child could experience each part of the retreat before returning to school.

Reflecting on the day, one teacher commented: “Thanks very much for the lovely Mass and the sessions which followed. I know that all the Year 5 children very much enjoyed their time at All Saints.”

The pupils themselves were equally enthusiastic, particularly enjoying learning about the saints and taking part in the boxing activities.

The retreat also resulted in tangible ongoing engagement. Two pupils who attended the day returned the following week to take part in our Monday evening under-12s boxing club. This highlights the value of creating meaningful points of contact with young people through schools outreach. By connecting children with positive activities, trusted adult role models and a welcoming faith community, we are able to provide opportunities that extend well beyond a single school visit and contribute to the long-term flourishing of young people and their families.

This retreat day reflects the heart of our mission: creating opportunities for young people to encounter Jesus Christ, discover the richness of the Catholic faith and grow into the people God created them to be. Through our schools ministry and the work of All Saints Boxing Gym, we are able to engage children in ways that are both meaningful and accessible, helping them develop spiritually, socially and emotionally.

We are grateful for the support of our volunteers, supporters and funders whose generosity makes days like this possible.