The Search Residential programme is a peer to peer ministry aimed at young people aged fifteen and over. SEARCH is an opportunity to think, talk, question, and wonder about the joys and struggles of faith in everyday life. This weekend retreat gives young people, an opportunity to mature and grow in their faith . The programme consists of witness talks by young people, group discussion, drama, music, prayer – as well as a Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Eucharist. (N.B. No parts of this programme are compulsory) Leaving plenty of time for entertainment, fun & socialising. During the Search weekend, young people are given an experience of Catholic Christian community in action; something they may, or may not, experience in their homes, school, or parish.
The emphasis of the weekend is not to have adults teach or lecture in a classroom-type setting, but to take the things we already know and believe as Catholics and put them into a life-living, youth-friendly context.
The weekend begins at 7 p.m. on Friday and ends at around 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. You will NEED to be present for the whole weekend. It is difficult to put into words what a weekend is, but we can guarantee that you will be glad you came. After the weekend the Search community holds ‘Extension’ meetings. These take place weekly, providing on-going support and encouragement to young people and anyone who has participated in the Search programme.
Who can attend?
SEARCH weekends are for any young person, aged 15 and over, it is open to all denominations and creeds. SEARCH is not designed as a means to conversion to Catholicism, but is an open invitation to join a Christ-centered community of youth and young adults.
Team Members
This weekend retreat is made up of many facets. Team members will be sharing bits and pieces of themselves, including their joys and struggles in everyday life, how Christ fits into their busy schedules, and why it is important to have Christ as your center. These personal experiences will touch your heart and kindle your faith.
A team member is a young person, who is returning after one or more SEARCH retreats and who has demonstrated a gift of faith. The team members serve as leaders, coordinators, speakers, table leaders, etc. The weekend truly is a peer to peer ministry and is run by the young people, including, specially chosen Directors. Every weekend is unique based on the participants. If you are a past SEARCHer and want to get involved, send us an email.