Youth Expectations

We're so excited that you're part of Teens Encounter Christ! TEC weekends are all about growing in your faith, creating leaders, building friendships, and having an amazing experience together. To help make sure everyone has a fun, safe, and meaningful weekend, there are some important expectations we ask everyone to follow.

This is a community where we support each other, show kindness, and create a safe place for people to open up and be themselves. Please read through these guidelines carefully — they're here to help keep everyone safe, respected, and cared for.

Why This Matters

At TEC, we believe God works through relationships. Many of the people who come to TEC — both teens and adults — have experienced hard things in life. That's why it's so important to treat each other with kindness and respect. Our words and actions should never make someone feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or hurt in any way.

Expectations for Teens at TEC

To help make this weekend safe, supportive, and fun for everyone, here's what we ask of you:

1. Look Out for Each Other

We want TEC to be a place where everyone feels safe and cared for. Here's how you can help:

Stay in public areas of the church. Don't go into locked rooms, dark spaces, or off-limits areas.
If you see someone struggling, looking upset, or acting differently, check in with them — or let a trusted adult know.
Avoid risky behavior like roughhousing, climbing on things, or playing physical games that could get someone hurt.
No vaping, smoking, drinking, or using any kind of drugs at TEC. If you're feeling tempted or know someone else is, talk to an adult leader you trust right away.

2. Respect Personal Space and Boundaries

We want everyone to feel safe and respected — emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Physical Boundaries

Hugs can be awesome, but no one should ever feel pressured to give or receive one. A handshake, high-five, or even just a smile is perfectly fine too.

Privacy Matters

Don't share other people's personal stories or private information inside or outside of TEC unless they say it's okay.

Appropriate Behavior

Avoid flirting, teasing, or making jokes about people's appearance, gender, or sexuality. Everyone deserves to feel respected and accepted.

Dress Code

Choose clothing that's modest and respectful of others. If you are unsure about a piece of clothing, it's best to avoid it and choose something you are confident is appropriate for a church event like TEC.

3. Communicate Safely and Responsibly

Even after TEC weekends, many people stay connected through texting and social media — and that's awesome! But it's important to communicate in a way that's safe and kind.

Be positive, kind, and appropriate in all your messages.
Never send or share anything you wouldn't want your pastor, parents, or principal to see.
If someone sends you something that makes you uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult.

4. Speak Up If You're Worried

If you hear or see something that makes you worried for someone's safety — whether it's about self-harm, bullying, abuse, or anything else serious — don't keep it to yourself. Tell an adult leader right away. This includes:

If someone talks about hurting themselves
If someone says they're using drugs or alcohol
If someone shares about being hurt by someone else
If someone threatens to harm another person

Even if you're not sure it's a big deal, it's always better to say something.

5. Integrity Matters

At TEC, honesty and integrity are essential for building trust and keeping everyone safe. Always be truthful in your words and actions with others. Here's how you can live out integrity at TEC:

Keep your word — if you commit to something, follow through.
Be truthful in your conversations. Don't spread rumors, exaggerate stories, or say things that could cause confusion or hurt.
Be completely honest on your health form when listing medications, allergies, or any health issues. Providing accurate information ensures leaders can care for you properly and respond quickly in case of an emergency.
If you make a mistake, own up to it instead of hiding it — that's how we learn and grow together.

Remember, integrity protects not only you but also the entire TEC community.

6. Be a Supportive Friend

Jesus said, "Love one another as I have loved you."

At TEC, we want to be people who lift each other up, encourage each other, and help each other grow in faith. If you need help, have questions, or just need someone to pray with you, reach out to a leader or a friend. And do the same for others when you can.

Thank You

We're so grateful you're here and part of TEC. Together, let's make this weekend a safe, positive, and unforgettable experience for everyone.