Special to The Message
There are so many beautiful characteristics of the Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) retreat and community! One unique aspect is that TEC is intergenerational and provides an opportunity for youth and adults alike to find incredible support and role models from a wide variety of ages and backgrounds. Despite the word “Teens” in its name, TEC welcomes youth who are at least 17 years old and/or in their junior year of high school and adults; there is no upper age limit.
In the past two years, Southwestern Indiana TEC has had an opportunity to recognize an awesome married couple and a single person who are incredible examples of living the Catholic life in their particular vocations. These three people received the Spirit of TEC award which recognizes individuals or couples who live out the Paschal Mystery in their lives, contribute to TEC in a significant way, are committed to serving the Church and its youth and young adults, and generously share their love, faith and enthusiasm with others.
In 2024, the award was given to Mike “Pickle” Kocher. Pickle has been a vital and active member of the TEC community for a long time. He selflessly works behind the scenes and does not seek recognition or praise. He is the man to call on when you need a dependable person, whether it be to wash dishes, mop or serve on a TEC retreat team. In addition, he leads the rosary for his parish and is a true prayer warrior — always willing to pray for those who ask. He also humbly asks for prayers and knows he is a work in progress in his faith journey. He has been a rock for his family — in physical and spiritual needs and keeps a smile on his face and joy in his heart even when times are tough. He lives out the Gospel of trying to follow in the steps of Christ. He seeks out genuine conversations and throws in plenty of dad jokes and puns to keep you on your toes.
In 2023, the Spirit of TEC award went to Larry and Kelsey Durchholz. They have both served as team members, leaders, role models and in “behind the scene” roles for our local TEC community for many years. Their passion for the movement is evident in their humble dedication to creating positive experiences for weekends through building strong teams and reunions. As a couple, they take turns using their gifts to serve the Church: assisting Bishop Joseph M. Siegel at Masses, leading team selection, and sharing their love of faith and passion for service as parents. Larry and Kelsey’s love for God extends through their close family relationships as well, and people who know this couple as friends feel like family. It is easy to see their love of Christ through the way they love each other. They inspire others to live out their faith in how they encounter the highs and lows of the Paschal Mystery when they continue to turn toward Christ and the Catholic faith in both times of joy and struggle.
Our local TEC community is so blessed to have so many teens and adults like Mike “Pickle,” Larry and Kelsey who live their vocations so beautifully, and we are always excited to welcome others into our community. All are invited to make a weekend, be a silent prayer warrior or even get involved as an active team member or leader.
Past Spirit of TEC Recipients include: 2022: Megan and Alex Knies; 2021: Dan and Terri Barnes; 2019: Leigh Anne Costlow; 2018: Brian and Joyce Gehlhausen; 2017: Hannah Sitzman; 2016: Brad Tretter; 2015: Martha Schmitt; 2014: Jeff Verkamp; 2013: Father Jason Gries; 2012: Sister Teresa Gunter; 2011: Becky Siewers; 2010: Laura Litwiler; 2010: Heidi Litwiler; 2009: Tom and Sara Kessens; 2008: Mariah Litwiler; 2007: Chuck Coomes; 2006: Barb and Gary Gehlhausen; 2005: Linda Schmitt; 2005: Father Jack Durchholz; 2004: Ron and Mary Balbach; 2004: Ed Wagner; 2003: Dennis Hilderbrand; 2003: Bruce Deer; 2002: Ed Tretter; 2001: Mike Eppler, Philip Zenthoefer and Mary Ann Zenthoefer; 2000: Richard Burek and Diane Fehrenbacher; 1999: Janet Debes and Father Bernie Etienne; 1997: Wileen Halter, Jane Leingang and Al Debes; 1996: Diane Hildenbrand and Andie Herr; 1995: Rick Etienne.
For more information, visit www.switec.org or email [email protected].