frequently asked questions
What do you do at a TEC weekend?
A lot. But many things that happen are surprises that shouldn't be revealed until you go through a TEC weekend.
Weekenders are put with 6-7 other high school students and 1 adult. Throughout the weekend, they listen to various testimonials given primarily by other high school students. Those talks are then discussed in small groups, and through that small group process, along with many surprises, some great friendships and bonds are made.
The overall theme for the weekend progresses through the last days of Christ's life. Friday focuses on Ash Wednesday in the Easter story, Saturday is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and Sunday is centered around Pentecost and the sending of the Holy Spirit out into the world. Weekenders are encouraged to take what they've learned at a TEC weekend and share it with the world.
What's a Weekender?
A Weekender is a high school student who is attending a TEC weekend for the first time. They are there to experience the whole weekend firsthand in order to get to know more about what God has done for everyone through God's son Jesus Christ.
What's a team member?
A team member is a high school student who has attended a TEC weekend before, and has come back to help put on the weekend by working on a team. There are also a small number of adults who work on these teams, but the weekend is run primarily by high school students.
When does the TEC weekend actually start?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions, mainly because it starts at different times for Weekenders or team members. Team members are expected to arrive at the host church at 4:00 p.m. on the Thursday of the TEC weekend. Weekenders need not arrive until Friday morning at 9:30 a.m.
Who can attend a TEC weekend
Any high school student in grades 9-12 is eligible to attend.
What should I bring to a TEC weekend?
- Clothes For Three Days
- Pillow
- Sleeping Bag
- Twin Size Air Mattress (optional)
- Conservative Pajamas
- Towel & Washcloth
- Conservative Swimsuit (trunks / one-piece)
- Small Flashlight
- Personal Belongings
- Toiletries
- Medications
- Musical Instrument (optional)
What should I leave home From a TEC weekend?
- Music Player
- Watch
- Camera
- Money
- Cell Phone
- Car
- Food
- Tobacco or Vaping Products
- Any valuables
Can Weekenders drive themselves to a TEC weekend?
We do not encourage Weekenders to drive themselves to a TEC weekend. It is preferable for them to be dropped off at the church by a parent/guardian or a friend. There is often limited parking space available at the host churches, and vehicles are not needed at any time during the weekend.
Why are there so many secrets?
This is an easy question. The answer is that THERE AREN'T ANY SECRETS. There are, however, many surprises that happen throughout the TEC weekend that make it that much more special for Weekenders going through a retreat. If Weekenders knew about these surprises ahead of time, some of the impact would be lost.
Any parents/guardians who have specific questions about a TEC weekend can contact a member of the TEC council and we will be happy to answer any/all questions that you may have.
Do Weekenders need sponsors to go to TEC?
No they do not. This is one of the differences between TEC and Cursillo.
What time does Saturday's Dinner start?
Saturday's dinner starts at 6:00 p.m. at the host church. Community typically start gathering sometime after 5:00 p.m. (Depending on the church's schedule, these times may be altered)
What time does the Closing Service start?
Sunday's closing service starts at 3:15 p.m. for parent/guardian check-in. The service itself starts at 4:00 p.m. and normally finishes around 5:00 p.m.
Do you require background checks for your adult leaders?
We require background checks for all participants 18 years and older before serving on a TEC weekend, and again every 3 years after. |
