Retreat facility for young people nearing reality

Everyone invited to groundbreaking Feb. 19

The Catholic Week

All are invited to a groundbreaking ceremony for Holy Spirit Hall on the original Camp Cullen property in Baldwin County at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19.

The property sits adjacent to Sacred Heart Chapel (18673 Scenic Highway 98, Battles Wharf) and Holy Spirit Hall marks a return to the original use of Camp Cullen, when it was first purchased and used as a retreat space for young people.

It will be named Holy Spirit Hall because it will sit alongside Mobile Bay, which was originally named Bay of the Holy Spirit.

“For 146 years this site on beautiful Mobile Bay has been a place for ministry to youth,” Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi said. “It is a place dear to many of our people where they enjoyed themselves and also learned about God’s love for them. This new building will continue the long legacy of helping young people discover the beauty and power of the Catholic faith.”

The facility will feature a large gathering space that will double as a dining hall. Groups will be able to eat meals together as well as hear talks and gather in small groups. Attached to the dining hall will be two sleeping areas, which will include bunkbeds, bathroom and shower facilities.

“For many of our parishes, and even for us in the diocesan offices, we have to use retreat facilities that are not religious-based or run by another Christian denomination,” said Archdiocese of Mobile Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry Director Adam Ganucheau. “Holy Spirit Hall, with the Sacred Heart Chapel next door, will give our young people a Catholic home for retreats organized by our parishes and Catholic schools. I am so excited to see this project come to fruition.”