Happening is a weekend event for youth in grades 9-12 which is focused onencountering Christ within community and learning how to strengthen our relationship with Christ and each other.  The weekend is structured on a National program with local flavor and traditions.  Since each weekend is basically the same program, with variations due to the individuals who make up the team, one only “makes” one Happening weekend, but can participate as a team member at subsequent weekends. 

The Happening Committee consists of youth and adults who have attended a Happening weekend.  This committee meets before each weekend to select leadership for the next event and to evaluate the previous event.  They also make policy decisions and set dates for subsequent meetings, weekends, reunions and staff training days. 

A Happening experience is a powerful instrument of renewal for young people.  During the three day weekend, those attending a Happening for the first time listen to talks by their peers and spiritual directors; they share their responses to these talks in small groups; share experiences in various liturgical settings; and just have fun together.  A peer who serves as the leader of the weekend and is called the “rector” leads a staff of youth and adults who guide the weekend experience. 

The staff gathers on a weekend prior to the Happening for learning, prayer, and to prepare for the event.  Various talks are given on the weekend which focus on the world, prayer, Jesus Christ, the Church,the Sacraments, and on being messengers for Christ.  Weekend participants sing, pray, and create posters and skits in response to the talks they hear.  Many who attend a Happening weekend remember it as a mountain top experience which serves to give each person a foundational grounding on their spiritual journey

The next Happening (#81) in the Diocese of Milwaukee is

November 9-11, 2007 at St. Michael's in Racine

Download Happening #81 Brochure

Download Happening #81 Application

Happening #82 is scheduled for March 28-30, 2008 in the Madison area.

For more information regarding Happening, contact Larry Boothby at larryb12345@sbcglobal.net, Jen Rivera at jenrivera@hotmail.com, or Wayne Pike at goalstopper@gmail.com