EXCEL is a self-administered spiritual retreat ministry started in the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches. EXCEL was started in 1975 and there are approximately 20 teams in the United States, Canada, Mexico and South Africa. EXCEL is patterned after the Cursillo movement which began in 1949 in Spain. Hundreds of people attend EXCEL weekends each year.
EXCEL is an "Exercise in Christian Community Living". The EXCEL principles are shared during a retreat by a team of committed Christians who are employing these principles in their own lives. These principles have been known for thousands of years as the Christian Way, yet today's busy world sometimes makes Christian living seem very difficult or complex. Excel gets you back to the basics!
Who is EXCEL of the Armadillo?
The Armadillo team was founded in 1983. The exercise taking place in November 2007 will be the 39th weekend hosted by the EXCEL of the Armadillo Team. Months of preparation time are required for each weekend. This includes monthly team meetings where prayer, study and action are utilized and discussed in depth. Group sharing and caring are developed as the team grows to know and trust each other.
What happens at an EXCEL weekend?
The weekend begins Friday evening and runs through late Sunday afternoon. Since all parts of the weekend build n each other, you need to be present for each. Pray that you will be able to enter the weekend as free as possible from all outside distractions and in a spirit to learn from God. There will be a series of talks, small group discussions, activities and worship experiences. Each part of the weekend is designed to allow you to individualize your spiritual growth.
Can I help others with a scholarship?
The EXCEL of the Armadillo team holds fundraisers throughout the year. In August we will hold a garage sale for the same purpose. If you would like to participate in all or any of our scholarship fundraisers. Please contact us today.
If you would like to offer a tax deductible donation towards the scholarship. Please make your check payable to "EXCEL of the Armadillo" and mail to... Excel of the Armadillo, 8246 Bonner Drive, Houston, TX 77017. Please include a return address so we may thank you and forward a tax remittance form.
When is the next EXCEL of the Armadillo weekend?
Weekend # 41, October 10-12, 2008
Participants need to arrive no earlier than 5:00PM and no later than 7:00PM. The weekend should conclude no later than 4:00PM Sunday afternoon.
The weekend is help at Camp Cho-Yeh in Livingston, Texas.
Directions: Camp Cho - Yeh: 2200 South Washington ~ Livingston, TX 77351, (A full detailed map and directions will be mailed or emailed to you upon registration)
Livingston, Texas is located just off Highway 59, approximately 90 minutes North East of Houston.
Click here for directions from Yahoo Maps
What do I need to bring to the weekend ?
Stuffed Animals: Please bring your favorite stuffed animal(s) with you. There is a special place for them during the weekend.
Comfortable Clothing: All parts of the weekend are informal and comfortable. Sweaters or light jackets are recommended for possibly cool days and evenings. If the weather forecast indicates rain, please plan to bring the appropriate clothing and footwear.
Coffee Cup: Bring your favorite coffee cup/mug and /or glass. Coffee and other assorted drinks are available during the weekend.
Bible: Bring your own bible. If you do not have one, one will be shared with you.
Flashlight: For the walkways and exploring.
Personal Needs: Such as aspirin, gum, prescriptions, etc.
Toiletry Articles: Please bring toothbrush, shampoo, comb/brush and other personal items you prefer to use. (Bedding, towels, bathmats, washcloths and soap are provided.
Snacks: Please bring a small bag of fruit, chips, crackers, candy, i.e. munchies, etc for the community snack table.
DO NOT BRING ANY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR DRUGS (Except prescriptions)
Cost: $145.00 per person
Deposit: $60.00 before or on July 15, 2008
$70.00 After July 15 and or before September 1
$140.00 on or after September 1
Payments and/or tax deductible donations can be paid instantly and safely through PayPal with your credit card or bank account. Click here to pay with PayPal
You may also present Cash, Money Order or Check to any team member in person or mailed to the following address:
Please make checks payable to "Excel of the Armadillo"
8246 Bonner Drive
Houston, TX 77017
All deposits are non refundable. If regrettably you must cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. We request you consider applying your payment's towards the scholarship fund in order for another to participate. This would then become a donation and is tax deductible.
Transportation assistance can be arranged, as we care about everyone and want to be sure all are able to attend - no matter what their transportation situation is. If you need transportation, please indicate this on your application form. We will match you up with someone within your area.
All parts of the weekend are informal and comfortable. Sweaters or light jackets are recommended for possibly cool days and evenings. If the weather forecast indicates rain, please plan to bring the appropriate clothing and footwear.
Yes. However, please remember this is each persons individual walk with Christ
Can I bring my cell phone and beeper?
By coming to the weekend, you are making a commitment to forget the use of cell phones, beepers, telephones and all other distractions. The weekend is about "Living in Union with God" God does not need a cell phone.
I am not a member of or have a home church. Can I still attend?
YES!! This is not a church membership drive weekend. Members of EXCEL and participants alike come from many different religious and non religious backgrounds; all are welcome and encouraged to attend. Church membership or affiliation is not a prerequisite. In fact, there are no prerequisites for attending the weekend. However, curiosity and an open mind are recommended.
What is All Inclusive Language?
More detailed information is forthcoming - come back soon for updates!
I don't live in the area. Are there other EXCEL Weekends?
There are many EXCEL weekends throughout the United States and around the world. Please check the Excel International de Colores link for an EXCEL weekend closer to you.
As of last, Waldo was still out looking, as he did not fill out an application in time. Fortunately, you will be at the EXCEL of the Armadillo Weekend where you will find some answers you are looking for and perhaps more questions too. Please don't be a Waldo and miss out.