The Weekend

Friendships:

From the moment the weekenders arrive, they are greeted by a combined team of youth and adults. Music, games, food, and lots of laughter put everyone at ease before they go into the conference room for talks and small group sessions. Special surprises are planned by the teams throughout the weekend to bring excitement, joy, and the message of Christ to the candidates in fun and inventive ways. They demonstrate God's grace in a way each student will always remember.

Inspiration

Throughout the weekend, students give "tesimonial talks" designed to walk candidates through the Gospel and the person of Christ in personal and real ways. The talks are a witness of struggles the teenagers have faced and how God has worked in and through their lives. The Spiritual Directors (Pastor's present on the weekend) give two talks on the specific theology of Jesus' death and resurrection and what that means for us today. The talks are then followed by small group discussions, conversations, and presentations. The sharing is marked with tears, laughter, hugs, and encouraging words, giving the candidates a chance to see Christ's love and support through their peers first hand.

The Journey

The weekend is a progression of faith, moving students through the reality of sin (lent), to the impact of Christ's crucifixion (Good Friday), to the tripumph of the ressurrection (Easter), to the infilling of the Spirit in our lives.

Follow- up

Reunion weekends and various forms of follow-up provide opportunities for the youth to continue to grow in their personal faith together. Students are also always encouraged to come and serve at the next TEC, implementing one of TEC greatest advantages- leadership development through peer to peer ministry.