What is Teens Encounter Christ?

A three-day retreat for high-school youth. TEC is a Lutheran based spiritual experience that exists in many states and now has been brought to central Maryland. The retreat is planned and led by youth, as well as pastors and other adult youth leaders, who have all participated in a TEC weekend.

What is TEC’s goal?

To help Christian youth strengthen their faith by experiencing an individual encounter with Christ through support of a Christian community of their peers. This is accomplished through times for personal reflection, small group discussions, worship, prayer, Holy Communion, confession, and spiritually motivating talks and testimonies given by youth, adults, and pastors. Following the weekend, guests are encouraged to take their experience back to their home churches and communities for opportunities of ministry.

In other words…

The objective of TEC is to enable high-school youth, at a critical age of life-changing decisions, to encounter the presence of Christ in their lives and learn what it means to commit themselves to the Lord.

Theological Focus:

The weekend focuses on the Easter Vigil as a summary of the Christian faith. Each day has a different theme and focus:

Die Day: On this day guests come to understand more fully Christ’s sacrifice of His life for us, how we must die to ourselves to gain new life in Him.

Rise Day: As Christ rose from death, so we are given new life in Christ through Baptism. The focus of this day is on how Christ offers us new life, and what it means to be called by God and live in a community with other Christians.

Go Day: As the disciples were sent out by Christ, so we are sent out with the Holy Spirit to share Christ’s love. This day prepares the youth for the Fourth Day…living in the community with a life dedicated to God.

Who attends a TEC weekend?

Anyone age 15 and older, or has completed the first term of high school. Those attending for the first time are “guests.” Adults, age 21 and over, who are or are scheduled to become actively involved in their church youth ministry are welcomed to attend. It is recommended that at least one adult or pastor from a first time attending congregation that sends youth attend as well. TEC is not recommended for those who have not already been acquainted with Christ as part of their life. TEC’s focus is to strengthen the relationship with Christ the guest already has.

Y2K TEC is always on Labor Day (September) and President’s Day (February) Weekend

Cost is $120. Ascension youth are covered for half the cost ($60), and are only respinsible for a $60 deposit upon registration. Speak to Adam Kampia if the $60 deposit is difficult because we do not want money to be a deterrent by any means.

Follow the link below for the guest registration form.

If you have other questions, or desire additional information, please contact us:

Erin Heemann: 443-286-6718

Adam Kampia: 301-577-0500

Gary Pomrenke: 301-213-4043

Related Files:

• Y2K Teens Encounter Christ guest registration form
TECGuestApplication.doc