'It has absolutely changed my life'

Editor's note: The SEARCH Retreat ministry has been a long standing tradition of the Archdiocese of Mobile for more than 40 years. SEARCH Retreats are directed by the high school SEARCH Team and is specifically “for teens, by teens” to draw young people closer to Christ and the Catholic faith. 
Below is a reflection from SEARCH co-director Grace Morin. SEARCH 28 takes place Jan. 27-29 at Children's Harbor on Lake Martin. For more, visit mobarch.org/search-28

“Hi, my name is Grace Morin, and I’m a senior at the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science. I attend St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in Foley and was selected as the co-director for Search 27 and 28. 
SEARCH has been a central part of my life for four years now.  Search is a retreat led by teens for teens to grow closer to God and to strengthen their faith lives. Before SEARCH, I had never truly experienced what it felt like to hear teens open up about their experiences with the Lord. SEARCH allowed me the opportunity to feel united and to guide others to a better connection with Christ himself. 
The creation of a community of like-minded faith-seeking individuals is like no other. Leading others to join together in the kingdom of heaven brings the SEARCH team and I incomprehensible joy. 
Being a part of the SEARCH ministry is truly unlike anything else, and I can say, without a doubt, that it has absolutely changed my life. Pairing with devoted teens from all over the archdiocese has been such an enlightening experience, especially being able to see the Lord shine through not only those on the SEARCH Team, but the Searchers that come to the retreat as well. 
Preparing for the retreat, the SEARCH Team and I gathered countless prayers and intentions wishing all of us well in our journeys growing closer to the Lord. Opening your heart to the Lord and seeking to hold God’s hand throughout all the ups and downs of your life has the capability to be life changing. 
For any out there contemplating the idea of attending of SEARCH, I implore you to say YES.”