Fifty young adults from 29 parishes within the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco and beyond gathered October 16 – 19, 2025 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, California for the annual Metropolis Young Adult Fall Retreat. The weekend sought both adventure and spiritual renewal under the theme “Glory to Thee for Every Step of My Life’s Journey.”
The retreat began on Thursday evening with a special “Adventure Package” group who arrived early. On Friday, participants enjoyed an all-day hiking excursion into Kings Canyon National Park led by retreat clergy Fr. James Kumarelas, Proistamenos from Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in San Jose, CA, and Rev. Archdeacon Justin Bosl from Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church in Castro Valley, CA. The group set out from Roaring River Falls and concluded at Muir Rock, where Archdeacon Justin offered a reflection on forgiveness and redemption. That evening the full retreat commenced with dinner, group introductions, and a Paraklesis service led by Father James and Archdeacon Justin.
On Saturday morning the group began with a short hike along the Ranch’s Prayer Trail and offered the Akathist of Thanksgiving, “Glory to God for All Things,” before breakfast. Afterwards, Archdeacon Justin led a two-hour discussion centered on the retreat theme, drawing from the Apostle Paul’s charge to “walk in the Spirit,” and guiding participants through the Orthodox spiritual life’s three stages: Purification, Illumination, and Deification. After lunch, the retreat participants toured the adjacent Monastery of the Theotokos the Life-Giving Spring and assisted the sisters with apple-picking in the orchard. Great Vespers followed at the Monastery and the evening ended with a campfire by the lake, filled with songs, laughter, and fellowship. On Sunday morning, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated at the Monastery, followed by brunch and a bookstore visit, bringing the retreat to a spiritually uplifting close.
The Young Adult Fall Retreat continues the commitment of the Metropolis to engaging, equipping, and uniting young adults in faith, community, and service. For more information please visit the Metropolis Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries website.