What is SEARCH?

SEARCH is a peer-to-peer ministry, allowing youth (ages 16 and 17) along with young adults (ages 18 and older) to minister to youth and young adults. SEARCH is a way to help you on your journey to discover God, yourself, and a Christian community. This is a time to experience a loving, supportive community of young people who want to learn and experience a closer relationship with God and with others.

SEARCH is a time away from the busyness of day-to-day life for experiencing…

• The vibrant spirit of the young Catholic Christian community.
• The Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist.
• Input and reflection for discerning your future vocation.
• Acceptance and support from caring peers.
• Personal and communal prayer services.
• Witness of faith by young adults.
• A weekend of FUN.
• Christ, alive and well!

A SEARCH Weekend

SEARCH weekend retreats are held four times throughout the year at Maryvale Convent, home of the Sisters of Mary of the Presentation. Maryvale is located in the hills, a few minutes north of Valley City, providing a great opportunity in stepping away from your normal routine.

The weekend begins at 5:30 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. See the Registration page for a list of upcoming weekends.

Who can attend?

SEARCH weekends are for any high school or college-age person, at least 16 years of age, and are open to all denominations and creeds. SEARCH is not designed as a means to convert 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 young people, including, a specially chosen Student Director. Every weekend is unique based on the participants. If you are a past SEARCHer and want to get involved, visit the Apply for Team page.