Riverbend TEC is a three-day retreat experience focused on the Paschal Mystery of Jesus Christ: the passion, death, and resurrection. For more information scroll down or click: What is TEC?|Who May Attend?|Cost?|When and Where is TEC?|More Information!|Contact Riverbend TEC!
What is TEC?
Back to Top
Each of the days of a Riverbend TEC retreat has a central theme, and the FOCUS of each of the three days builds upon the previous day:
DAY 1: Die Day A day centered on the death of Jesus Christ. On “Die Day”, participants reflect on many different aspects of their lives, focusing on better relationships with God, self, and others. “Die Day” is a day in which participants begin by looking at their goals and ideals, the example of the life of Jesus and His call for us to look at what we need to change in our lives to be a better person and have a better relationship with God.
DAY 2: Rise Day A day focusing on God’s unconditional love for us, our response to God’s love, the signs of God’s presence in our lives, a day of rejoicing in the resurrection of Jesus. On “Rise Day”, participants celebrate the presence of God’s love in their lives.
DAY 3: Go Day A day which explores the continuous call to spread the Good News. On “Go Day”, participants recognize and prepare to carry forth the message of Jesus Christ. “Go Day” is a day in which we are invited to share what we have experienced with those we meet in our daily life.
Participants experience the Paschal Mystery of Jesus Christ through participation in music, discussions, talks, prayer, Scripture, liturgy, and celebration. A Riverbend TEC weekend seeks to facilitate spiritual growth through participation in group activities and prayer experiences. The faith of every individual is respected and invited to open their hearts more fully to Jesus Christ.
Each Riverbend TEC weekend begins with registration at 9:30 am on the first day and ends at 4:30 pm on the third day. Everyone who sends in a registration form will receive an acceptance letter giving more specific information about what you will need to bring for the weekend, when to arrive and the address.
The team leading the weekend includes of a priest, adults, and teenagers who have participated on a previous TEC weekend. The team is formed several weeks before the TEC weekend. They meet together to get to know each other, to prepare and pray for the success of the weekend. The team makes a real effort to making everyone feel welcomed when they come and feel accepted where they are at. All are encouraged to be themselves.
The format of the weekend includes a good mixture of time for getting to know other people, music, learning more about Jesus, socializing and recreation, prayer experiences and Mass. Through the weekend there are some talks shared by the adults and young people followed by time for discussion.
Who May Attend?
Back to Top
Retreats are open to youth and adults. Youth must be 16 or older. Most weekends have some adult participants.
Weekends are staffed and attended by people primarily from the Catholic Diocese of New Ulm, although people from other areas of Minnesota, other states, and even foreign nations have attended.
Though a Catholic retreat, non-Catholics are welcome and do participate.
Cost?
Back to Top
The three day retreat costs $65, which provides all you need for the weekend. A non-refundable $20 deposit is requested with the application. The balance is due upon arrival at the TEC Center. If it would be more convenient, payment in full may be sent in with the application. Scholarships may be available to help cover the cost.
When and Where is TEC?
Back to Top
Riverbend TEC weekends start Saturday morning and end Monday afternoon.
Riverbend TEC weekends are held at three parishes: Church of St. Mary in Bird Island, Minnesota, Holy Trinity Cathedral in New Ulm, Minnesota, and Holy Trinity Church in Winsted, Minnesota. Click on the name of the church where the TEC is being held to get directions.
MAPS
More Information!
TEC originated as “Teens Encountering Christ” in 1965 as a retreat experience for high school students. There are active TEC centers throughout the United States and foreign countries.
Riverbend TEC began in 1977 and is one of several TEC centers in Minnesota. It has the support of Bishop John LeVoir, bishop of New Ulm. Riverbend TEC changed its name to “Together Encountering Christ” to better reflect the presence of both teen and adult participants on the weekends.
Riverbend TEC is affiliated with the National TEC Conference, the Diocese of New Ulm with full support of the bishop, and is guided by an advisory council composed of youth, adults, and priests who work with the Coordinator and Spiritual Director appointed by the bishop.
The following video is from the National TEC Conference. Note: while the video references “Teens” Encounter Christ, the Riverbend TEC center is named “Together” Encountering Christ to reflect the inclusion of youth and adults of all ages.
Contact Riverbend TEC!
Back to Top
For more information contact Riverbend TEC click Here.