Archbishop Roger L. Schwietz,
OMI, Episcopal Moderator for the TEC Movement
Archbishop Schwietz presenting the manual to the late Pope John Paul
II at the
Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) is a national/international retreat
movement which offers youth an opportunity to experience the central message of
the Roman Catholic expression of faith, the Paschal Mystery of Christ, at a
time of passage from youth to young adulthood. Since its beginnings in 1965,
TEC has touched the lives of thousands of youth and young adults each year. We
recognize the gift that TEC is to the Church.
An
integral part of the church’s ministry to youth, TEC seeks to empower youth to
live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today. "All ministry with
adolescents must be directed toward presenting young people with the Good News
of Jesus Christ, and inviting and challenging them to become his
disciples" (Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry,
USCCB).
The
ministry of TEC recognizes the power of the intergenerational faith community
in sharing faith with adolescents. Young people are supported by faith-filled,
caring adults who act as mentors and witnesses throughout the TEC experience.
Through TEC, youth experience a greater desire to belong and participate in the
Church.
We
believe that TEC can assist in promoting growth in Catholic identity and
Christian discipleship in the world. We hope that you will find the TEC Movement
a valuable contribution to youth ministry as so many others throughout the
world have already discovered.
In
Christ’s peace, Archbishop Roger L. Schwietz, OMI