Witnessing Christ In The TEC Movement
The image of Christ carrying His cross on the way to crucifixion is depicted in many artistic forms, particularly in the fourteen “Stations of the Cross” found in Catholic churches. In all four canonical Gospels the crucifixion is recounted at a site called Calvary or Golgotha. It is referred to in early writings as a hill outside the city of Jerusalem that resembles a skullcap; a place where people coming in and out of the city could witness the “mount of execution.” Christian pilgrimages are celebrated today on the Via Dolorosa, “Way of Sorrows,” which is a street in the Old City Jerusalem. We must never forget that Jesus suffered and died for us!
The events of this journey are remembered every year during the Lenten and Easter Seasons; but honestly, we travel the Road to Calvary every day with the challenges of Christianity. As we journey through life we encounter people helping others like Simon of Cyrene, or people like Veronica, who was kind enough to wipe the face of Jesus. In our world we witness crowds that protest, accusers, and murderers, but we also meet the mournful who yearn for the merciful love of God. Humanity has been divided by complications and indifference since the beginning of time.
The culture we live in is challenging and does not see glory in suffering. No one is exempt from troubled times. Pain leads to repentance, which gives us hope for the future. The word of God gives great comfort to those experiencing pain. We learn patience in times of disappointment when united with encouragement and love. Romans 8:18: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
The life of Jesus is our greatest model. We encounter the Paschal Mystery every time we celebrate Holy Mass in the dying, rising and going forth, as we share the good news! Believing in the death and resurrection of Jesus is the core message of Christian faith. This theme is celebrated several times a year during a “Teens Encounter Christ” weekend, which has been organized under the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry in the Diocese of Evansville since 1991.
The TEC Movement is available to young people ages 17-22. Adult observers over the age of 22 who wish to take an active role in this intergenerational movement are encouraged to participate and facilitate spiritual growth. The three-day journey of faith helps young people see the glory that can be obtained through the suffering of Christ, as it relates to the struggles in their own lives. It is a great opportunity to be enlightened through evangelization and catechesis. Young adults are the future leaders of our Church, and this weekend provides a message of hope and joy!
Applications for the weekend can be obtained online at www.switec.com The next TEC Weekend, No. 95, is July 23-25, with a future weekend on Nov. 12-14, both at St. Mary Parish in Ireland. Our strength comes from God to overcome all things. Support this wonderful group of faithful people with your prayers and participation. It is about witnessing hope for our Church! Christ is counting on you! Amen!
