The team is made up entirely of volunteers (adults and youth) who have previously made a TEC retreat. They are people who have had an awesome experience at TEC and want to share it. The retreat directors have extensive TEC experience and are carefully selected, but are still volunteers of various backgrounds.
Retreat Information
Packing List
What should I NOT bring?
There is no need for i-pods, mp3 players, or cell phones during the weekend. If you bring these items, you will be asked to turn them off and store them in your car or luggage.
If while making the TEC weekend you need to be contacted, your parents/family can reach you by phone at 507-479-0067. The message will be passed on to the directors who will notify you and arange for a return call. We ask that you be contacted in case of emergency only.
What should I bring?
Prior to the retreat, you will receive a welcome letter with more information, but here is some information that may be useful.
Please bring casual clothes for the weekend, a jacket for outdoor recreation, and some nice clothing for Mass.
Bring an air mattress or cot and a sleeping bag–we will be sleeping on a floor in the gym or in classrooms. Please also bring your own pillow, towel, soap, and personal toiletries. If you are a light sleeper, you may wish to bring ear plugs.
You may wish to bring along a few of dollars for the purchase of snacks that are available during the weekend.
Since the TEC weekend involves much activity, we do suggest that you get plenty of rest before you come so that you can enjoy your weekend to the fullest.
Couples should pack separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the retreat begin and end?
Participants are asked to arrive between 9:00-9:30 AM on Saturday. The retreat ends around 4:30 PM on Monday.
Hungry For More?
Following TEC some go out for food and time together.
What if I need to arrive late or leave early?
To fully experience the retreat, participants are asked to arrive on time and to remain onsite for the duration of the weekend. Please call the Riverbend TEC Coordinator, Rachael Uher, at 507-479-0067 to discuss any questions regarding schedule variations.
What do I need to bring?
Mostly you need to bring yourself open and ready for a new experience. As far as “stuff”– a suggested list is provided here.
What does it cost?
The retreat fee is $90, due when you submit your registration. However, we want everyone to be able to attend—financial aid is available if needed. Contact riverbendtec@gmail.com for more information.
Why won’t people tell me about the weekend?
A TEC retreat is an experience. And like other experiences, seeing the Grand Canyon for example, it means different things to different people and it is often very hard to explain. Your friends and family may just want you to experience the retreat in your own way.
I’m not Catholic, is it for me?
While TEC is rooted in the Catholic faith, non-Catholics are welcome and do participate. In fact over the years about 10% of the participants have been non-Catholics.
I’ve heard about a ‘reunion.’ What is that?
A reunion is a gathering of people that have made TECs in the past. They get together occasionally to fellowship and share experiences.