Events

Make plans today to attend the annual Church Workers Golf Outing this summer on August 13! Once again it will be held at the Rock River Hills Golf Club, 3000 Main Street in Horicon.

Please join us at the South Wisconsin District’s third annual Milwaukee mission fund-raiser for an evening of fellowship and celebration of passionate believers in mission together Thursday, May 17, 2012, at Hilton Garden Inn, Milwaukee Park Place (11600 W. Park Place, Milwaukee, WI 53224).

Keynote speaker: Rev. Bart Day, executive director, LCMS national mission. Hors d’oeuvres at 5:30 p.m.; dinner at 6:30 p.m.

LSSES before school workshop
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Hales Corners Lutheran Church

Generation iY:  Understanding and connecting with generation Y and their parents

Presenter:  Dr. Tim Elmore, Founder and Presidetn of Growing Leaders

Join us for fun, fellowship and an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet!
Friday, June 15, 2012

New in 2012.....   Quadzilla - four lane water dragway - head-first, mat racing ride that accelerates riders through enclosed, braided and twisting tunnels.

Please save the date!  Rural and Small Town Mission exists to support and encourage congregations in rural and small town settings in their work to engage their communities with the love of Christ. In partnership with the South Wisconsin, North Wisconsin and Minnesota North Districts, RSTM invites your congregations to join us at Shepherd of the Hills, Onalaska, on Saturday, July 14 at 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. for the Engaging Rural Communities event. We are thankful to the members of Shepherd of the Hills who are ready to host this event at their facilities for professional and lay leaders.

The SWD parish nurse network meeting will be held Tuesday, April 17, at Trinity, 300 Broad St., Menasha. Jill Rasmussen, program center director at the Apple Creek YMCA, will present "Healthy living—it’s a journey.” Some of the topics for discussion and practical experience will include fitness suggestions, Tai Chi easy movements, posture improvement, relaxing breath practice and stress management techniques.

Best Western Riverfront Hotel, La Crosse
April 16-18 2012

The 2012 spring pastors' conference will be held Apr. 16-18 at the Best Western Riverfront Hotel in La Crosse. The theme for the conference is the "Rightly Ordered Call" with presenters Dr. Joel Lehenbauer and Rev. Dan McMiller. The conference begins with registration and worship at Faith (1407 Main St., La Crosse), then moves to the Best Western (1835 Rose St.).

Reserve the date on your spring calendar for this year’s gathering at Cedar Valley in West Bend! The District’s older adult task force welcomes all to come for a day of fellowship and learning under the topic, “Understanding the Future of the Church.”

Information & registration brochure 

LCMS Rural and Small Town Mission (RSTM) recognizes that while the work to which God has called congregations is the same, the context in which that work is carried out can be very different—even in rural America. To assist the many rural and small town congregations in the Midwest, our South Wisconsin District is sponsoring an Engaging Rural Communities event along with the North Wisconsin and Minnesota districts at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Onalaska, Wis on July 14, 2012. The tentative schedule begins with registration at 8 a.m. and concludes at 3 p.m.

NLSA captain and consultant training
Feb. 17, 2012 • District office, Milwaukee

Presenter: Terry Schmidt

This training can be helpful for schools seeking accreditation or schools that are already accredited. It pertains to all levels (preschool, elementary and high school). Anyone involved in leading a school accreditation process, or serving as a captain, consultant or team member would benefit through their participation.

Teaching the faith workshops
Spring 2012

Dates have been set for the Teaching the Faith workshops for early childhood teachers.

"Sharing Christ with All Cultures" is the theme for the multi-cultural LWML Heart to Heart Sisters event to be held at Oklahoma Ave. Lutheran Church in Milwaukee on Saturday, April 14 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Poster Registration form

We invite you to be with us on March 15 for another special SWD mission celebration and fund raising event, this time at The Cannery Grill, 315 E. Linnerud Dr., Sun Prairie, WI 53590. As you enjoy the evening of fellowship in this historic location, you will also be sampling some of the Cannery’s entrées and learning about pairing food with various wines and beers. But the best part is that you will be supporting our District missions!

Brochure 

The SWD Parish Nurse meeting will be held February 21, 2012 (snow date February 28) from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 1019 North 7th Street, Sheboygan, WI. The speaker will be Mai from Safe Harbor, a women's shelter in Sheboygan. She will give a presentation on domestic abuse and what we as parish nurses can do in those situations.

RSVP to Carolyn Eiden at deiden@excel.net or phone 920-457-8627 or 920-980-1382.

Feb. 25, 2012
Divine Redeemer, Hartland

The “Passionate Leaders" conference is for pastors, principals, teachers and leaders of our congregations and schools. The day will provide learning and interaction with Synod representatives, District staff, and other mission leaders. You will gain many resources throughout the conference to "Multiply, Magnify, and Maximize" your ministries! 

Cost is $25 per person or $75 per "church." Fee includes presenters, materials and lunch.

Brochure • Register online

Live Loud Leadership
Learn how to become a Leader in Christ and Live Loud in every area of your life!

March 16-18 2012
Camp Luther in Three Lakes, WI

NLSA captain and consultant training
Friday, February 17, 2012
District office

This training can be helpful for schools seeking accreditation or schools that are alaready accredited.  It pertains to all levels (preschool, elementary and high school). Anyone involved in leading a school accreditation process, or serving as a captain, consultant or team member would benefit through their participation.

The theme for Jan. 9-10, 2012, annual pre-Lenten retreat is "Not on Our Plans, His Plan." The retreat will take place at the Holiday Inn, Manitowoc. The presenter is Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Gibbs, professor of New Testament Studies at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Mo. He brings extensive pastoral experience as well as a wealth of scholarship to the series, which is based on Matthew’s Passion narrative, as author of the Concordia Commentary Series commentary on Matthew. The series will include sermon and worship resources for the six weeks of Lent, Passion Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday.  Deadline for registration is Dec. 16, 2011.  Register online •  Flyer/mail in registration 

Bible Bowl 2012
St. Mark Lutheran Church, Wausau

Join the fun at Bible Bowl 2012 on March 31. The competition will include questions based on Exodus using NIV translation.

NLSA captain and consultant training
February 17, 2012
District office, Milwaukee
8:30 am - 2:00 pm

This training can be helpful for schools seeking accreditation or schools that are already accredited. It pertains to all levels (preschool, elementary and high school). Anyone involved in leading a school accreditation process, or serving as a captain, consultant or team member would benefit through their participation. In future, anyone that wishes to serve as a member of a joint accreditation team (advanced & NLSA) must receive this training - it is a requirement.

LEA National Administrators Conference – “For Times Like These”
Friday-Sunday, January 13-15, 2012
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort on Disney Property, Orlando, Florida

Two nationally known keynote speakers; 15 sectionals; exhibit area; fellowship; worship; and a free night at the Magic Kingdom!

KINDLE servant leader workshop
Feb. 11, 2012
8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Brookfield

Participants will:

• understand better the concept of servant leadership
• continue growing to be a more effective servant leader
• assess strengths in one's leadership of groups
• challenge growth in a selected area of leadership, resulting in strengthened group leading skills

Certification in Lutheran early childhood teaching
February 4, 2012 and March 3, 2012
9 am - 3 pm

This certification will:

• provide early childhood professionals with a foundation of Lutheran thought and teaching
• introduce early childhood professionals to the mission and ministry of early childhood education in the church
• assist early childhood professionals in supporting the faith life of young children

Rev. Yia Vang plays his "xemxo" (pronounced "see-saw") instrument at the 2011 ethnic folk fair.

LCMS members representing many of the world's cultures gathered together on Saturday, Oct. 8, at Pilgrim, Wauwatosa for the fourth annual “Lutheran Ethnic Folk Fair.” The gym was alive with activity, ethnic foods, music and displays that told of the ministry at work in the South Wisconsin District. Young and old enjoyed learning more about our cultural differences and our oneness in Jesus Christ.

New date! Oct. 13, 2011
Highlands Sportmans’s Club • Cascade

Want to have a great time while supporting SWD missions? Choose one of two activities at 3 p.m., sporting clay, for novices and experts alike (bring your own shells or purchase them there), or New Orleans style cooking class and wine pairing with Chef Mike Rhodes. Both are followed by a 5:30 p.m. wine tasting with substantial appetizers.

Admissions Director Workshop
November 16, 2011
Hathorn Inn and Suites, Oshkosh
8:30 am - 5:30 pm

The North Wisconsin and South Wisconsin Districts are sponsoring an admissions director workshop in Oshkosh.  In addition to effectively welcoming families into your school, with this seminar, you will learn

Donations of quilts and kits will be loaded on to box cars to begin their trip to people who need them all over the world. This will take place on Saturday, October 8, from 8:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at 12th Street and Mt. Vernon, Milwaukee. Click here for more information about these items and where the quilts and kits went last year.

Because of the back's complexity and its weight-bearing responsibility, it's not surprising that back pain is one of the most common medical problems in the country. In fact, back pain--especially lower back pain in this case--can be caused by underlying physical problems, or it may also result from lifestyle habits.

The Parish Nurse Network meeting on Tuesday, October 18, will feature Patti Michels, APNP from Fond du Lac, who will present "Managing Low Back Pain."

Fall principals' conference
September 29-30, 2011
Hawthorn Inn, Oshkosh

The theme for this conference is "Guarding Against the Odds" - Matthew 10:16 “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”

“Guarding Against The Odds” will focus on our role as Christian leaders in a sinful world. Because of today’s temptations, our students, staff and families are the ones that are attacked on multiple levels. Ted Kober will be speaking on sexual temptations in a high-tech society. Casey Holtz will be addressing ways to help our families cope with today’s issues and child problems. These speakers will bring new insights on how school leaders can help ease these issues in our school families.

Plan for a day of great golf and fellowship with LCMS church workers from around the District on Aug. 8, 2011. It will be held at Rock River Hills Golf Club in Horicon. 

For the low cost of just $40 per golfer you will play 18 holes of golf, and that includes a cart and lunch! Thanks once again to LCEF and Church Mutual for providing lunch and prizes.Please register by no later than July 30! Information and registration form.

The next meeting of the Parish Nurse Network will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2011, and hosted by Jean Lange at Hope, 260 Vincent St., Fond du Lac, WI 54935. You may contact her at mjlange0301@att.net if you have any questions or would like to RSVP.

Saturday, Oct 8, 2011 is the date selected for the fourth annual Lutheran ethnic folk fair, highlighting ethnic ministries in the South Wisconsin District. It will be held in the gym of Pilgrim Lutheran School, 6717 W. Center St., Wauwatosa, from noon until 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to visit display tables of our various ethnic ministries, enjoy the musical performances, taste unique ethnic foods and gain a greater appreciation of our “oneness in Christ.”

Fall retreat for singles and married adults
CANCELLED
Oct. 7-8, 2011 • Divine Redeemer, Hartland

Theme:  Awaken

This event has been cancelled for October, 2011.

Early childhood literacy festival on the lake
August 5, 2011
Concordia University Wisconsin, Mequon

“Playing with Literacy: Imagine and Wonder”

The deadline has been extended to June 20 to sign up for a mission trip to Mission Central, Mapleton, Iowa, Sept. 19-22, 2011. The older adult committee of the South Wisconsin District is looking for commitment from enough people to make the cost of the bus transportation reasonable. Those who have been there say that it is a fascinating and inspiring experience. Please see the flyer (PDF) with more information and let us know if you would like to come along!

Professional Church Workers' Conference
November 3-4, 2011
Kalahari Resort and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells

Theme:  "Celebrating Christ in a Constantly Changing World"  I Peter 2:9

Reserve the date of May 18 on your calendar for this year’s Gathering at Cedar Valley near West Bend. The District’s older adult task force welcomes all to hear Dr. Richard Eyer, retired bioethics professor, and Dr. Jeffery Walz, associate professor of political science at CUW, who will present topics that have spiritual, physical and social insights into living life as Christians in today’s world. There will be dinner and a “fireside chat” at Cedar Valley (May 17) for those who like to stay over the night before the gathering.

Register by using the form inside the brochure (PDF), or online. Please call Peg Raabe at (414) 464-8101 if you have any questions.

April 11-15, 2011, is “Severe Weather/Tornado Awareness Week.” Tornados occur in every state in the U.S. This special week gives us the opportunity to review disaster plans for our schools and congregations, and to practice them. Families and congregations can take steps to protect themselves and their property. It can begin by learning about the risks of flooding. For more information about disaster preparedness for your congregation and members, please consider inviting  the District disaster response team to present our preparedness training at your church.

The Radisson Paper Valley Hotel will be the site for the SWD spring pastors' conference.  We will convene on Monday, May 9 through Wednesday, May 11, 2011.  The two speakers for this conference are LCMS Synod President Matthew Harrison and Dr. Arthur Scherer.

State Youth Gathering
Nov. 11-13, 2011
Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells

The purpose of this event is to give kids an experience they will never forget, to show them the FUN, PASSION and ENERGY in Christ.  Not only is our goal for them to walk away saying "WOW, THAT WAS AWESOME." But to also give them tools that they will TRULY take home with them.

Lutheran Schools Night at Miller Park
Saturday, May 14, 2011 • 3:10 p.m.
Milwaukee Brewers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

Join us for a fun-filled family event. After the Brewers game, we will host a professional church worker softball game at Helfaer Field.

Youth and Family Day at Noah's Ark
Friday, June 17, 2011
Wisconsin Dells

The SWD is sponsoring an all day event at Noah's Ark water park in Wisconsin Dells. Your price includes a one-day unlimited use pass for the water park and an all you can eat lunch buffet. Enjoy over 80 family activities and rides.

Teaching the faith workshops sponsored by the SWD early childhood committee and Concordia University Wisconsin

"Faith talks with young children: The fruits of the Spirit"
Discover new ways to dialogue with children about their faith in Jesus and what it means in their everyday lives. Using Bible stories that focus on the fruits of the Spirit, you will explore open-ended questions, role-play and visuals that will stimulate conversation, worship and prayer in your classroom or center. 

On March 18-19, Christians from Minnesota, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska will come together at Alexandria, Minnesota’s Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center for Lutheran Hour Ministries’ northern Midwest Regional Outreach Conference (ROC). The objective: two days of networking, fellowship, and intensive training in witness and outreach.

ROC--Alexandria is the second in a series of "Regional Outreach Conferences" LHM is presenting across the country in 2011 and early 2012. One will also be held in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 9-10, 2011. Watch this website for more information as it becomes available.

SWD Passionate Leaders Conference
Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011 • 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Lake Country Lutheran High School
There is still time to register!

NEW LOCATION, PLEASE NOTE! Divine Redeemer Lutheran Church N48W31385 State Road 83, Hartland 53027 (Approximately one mile west of Lake Country High)

The passionate leaders conference is for all pastors, teachers and leaders of South Wisconsin District congregations. The day will provide learning and interaction with Synod representatives, District staff and other mission leaders.  You will gain many resources throughout the conference to "Multiply, Magnify and Maximize" your ministries!

Before School Workshop
Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011
Hales Corners Lutheran, Hales Corners

Join the faculty and staff of LSSES for an insighful workshop featuring Israel (Izzy) Kalman, nationally renowned expert in teaching people how to deal with anger, bullying and relationship problems.  He will provide insight on victim-proofing your school through his "bullies2buddies" program.

LSA Conference
June 9-12, 2011
Camp Cilca, Cantrall, Ill. (near Springfield)

The theme for the conference is "Ships of Life."

Conference speaker:  Rev. Joseph Cunningham
Devotion/Bible study leader:  Rev. Michael Koschmann

Sorry! This January 14 workshop has been cancelled but will be rescheduled for a later date. Please watch these announcements for updated information!

Mark Kempff

Go to the ends of the earth," Jesus Christ tells us. But the ends of the earth have arrived at my school. What can I do?

What you may want to do is to attend a special workshop for educators, pastors and others who work with congregations in Hispanic communities. This special workshop to heighten awareness of cultural issues will be given by Mark Kempff, instructor at the Center for Hispanic Studies and former missionary to Latin America.

Passionate leaders conference
Feb. 26, 2011 • 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Lake Country Lutheran High School, Hartland

The conference is for pastors, teachers and congregational leaders. The day will provide learning and interaction with Synod representatives, District staff, and other mission leaders. You will gain many resources to "Multiply, Magnify and Maximize" your ministries. Agenda

Passionate leaders conference
Feb. 26, 2011 • 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Lake Country Lutheran High School, Hartland

The conference is for pastors, teachers and congregational leaders. The day will provide learning and interaction with Synod representatives, District staff, and other mission leaders. You will gain many resources to "Multiply, Magnify and Maximize" your ministries. Agenda

The next parish nurse network meeting will be held Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2011, at Christ Memorial, 2833 Raritan Rd., Fitchburg, WI 53711. The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. Host Sara Peters has a great speaker lined up for you! Dannie Jaeger is a member of Christ Memorial and owns Primo Solutions, LLC.

Coffee, tea and lunch will be provided. Please bring greeting cards for the inmates at Taycheeda or school supplies for Sherman Park Lutheran, Milwaukee, as part of ongoing service projects. 

RSVP to Sara Peters by e-mail or phone 608-225-2662. Directions

It’s finally time to get moving—literally! Thanks to the generous donations from many donors and the hard work of Brian and Jeanette Keller, a 40-foot container is waiting to be loaded with all the needed items bound for the Dominican Republic. Your help will be greatly appreciated to get things moving on Jan. 8, 2011, at 9 a.m. What greater way to start out the new year than to gather some friends together and help load all these necessities for a special kind of ministry to the Dominican Republic!

Friday, Feb. 4, 2011 • 6:30-10 p.m.
Elm Grove Lutheran  •  945 N. Terrace Dr., Elm Grove

All high school youth are invited to attend an evening of fun and fellowship.  Brad Alles from Milwaukee Lutheran High School will be the guest speaker for the evening with the popular topic, "Dating and Sexuality in the Christian World."

Register by Monday, January 31, 2011.

Jan. 10-11, 2011, is the date for the pastor's pre-Lenten retreat to be held at the Best Western Lakefront Hotel in Manitowoc. The theme this year will be "Amos: Restore the Roar," presented by Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing, associate professor of Exegesis, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. The series will include sermon and worship resources for the six weeks of Lent, Passion Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday.  Deadline for registration is Dec. 15, 2010.

Register online •  Flyer/mail in registration 

Funding Academy II
June 8-9, 2011
Kalahari Resort and Convention Center
Wisconsin Dells, WI


South Wisconsin, North Wisconsin and Minnesota South Districts are partnering with the School Ministry of the LCMS to provide Funding Academy II.

Funding Academy II is a follow-up program that takes place over two full days. This event offers additional insights into issues that are critical for our school leaders. All topics are designed to be the next level to Funding Academy I. However, they stand on their own for those not able to attend the first event.

To create an awareness of how we can best utilize resources and be prepared for disasaters in our District's homes and congregations, Sunday, Oct. 17, has been designated as Disaster Awareness Sunday. (Any other Sunday is also acceptable.) And to help congregations prepare for this observance, the CISM/disaster response team has prepared a Bible study, order of service, and suggested sermon. These can be downloaded and used in any way the congregation sees fit.

Bible study  •   Suggestions for liturgy  •  Sermon

If you prefer any of these files in Word format, please e-mail Peg Raabe to have them sent it to you.

The 2010 South Wisconsin District fall pastor's conference will be held at the Holiday Inn in Manitowoc on Monday, Oct. 25 through Wednesday, Oct 27. The theme of the conference is "The Pastor as Disciple."

Professional growth day for educators
Friday, Oct. 29, 2010
8 a.m.  - 2 p.m.
Lake Country Lutheran High School, Hartland

"A Gutenberg Church in a Google World"

The SWD's spring gathering at Cedar Valley was so well attended that the senior gathering committee decided to offer it again in a new venue with a “Fall Gathering in Reedsburg” at the Voyageur Inn Oct. 4, 2010. The theme is the same, "God’s Gifted Seniors—Yesterday and Today."

At the spring gathering a capacity crowd enjoyed hearing Rev. Mark Jeske of Time of Grace ministry share his insights about what’s happening with Lutherans today. He will do this again in Reedsburg after the morning devotional Bible study with Rev. Mark Meier of Emmaus, Poy Sippi. After lunch, Rev. Ron Riemer will coax you into filling in the blank space in his "God’s __?__ servants" presentation. Some good Lutheran-style singing (that would make Garrison Keillor smile) will be a prelude to Jeske’s afternoon chat about God’s gifted seniors.

Brochure  ♦ Flyer  ♦ Bulletin insert ♦ Online Registration

Since a recent mailing asking congregations to consider being a host site for a stewardship "fireside chat," many responses were received and five host sites are scheduled for the fall of 2010. If you would like to attend a fireside chat at one of the following locations, please RSVP to that host site's contact by the designated date. The time is 6-8 p.m.   Location and contact list 

The SWD’s partnership in seminary education is looking forward to another great year ahead for students who are preparing to enter into the specific ministry pastor (SMP) program. Our classes also serve as great opportunities for spiritual and ministry growth.

Everyone is welcome to attend the opening service for the SWD partnership in seminary education on Sept. 8, 2010. It will be held at St. John Lutheran Church, 809 S. 6th Ave., West Bend, with a lecture at 6:30 p.m. by Dr. Dave Zersen entitled, “Planting the Gospel in Native Soil.” The lecture will be followed by a short worship service at 7:30. At the conclusion of the celebration the partnership is hosting a wine and cheese reception including an art exhibit by renowned artist from India, Solomon Raj.

First year teachers (all new graduates)
First year administrators
New teachers/administrators to the District

Friday, Aug. 13, 2010
South Wisconsin District office
8:30 am - registration
9:00 am - 2:45 pm - orientation

The technology workshop has been postponed until futher notice.

Technology workshop
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010

This workshop, an extension of the winter administors' conference, is for SWD school administrators and the onsite technology person or selected staff person. 
 
Goal:  At the end of the day, the participants will take with them updates to their current technology.

June 26, 2010 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Our Redeemer, 10025 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa, 53226
If you are facing budget deficits or forced to live with a minimum budget, if you lack the funds needed for your ministries, if you want to learn about the goldmine of more than five years of “stewardship of giving” resources and programs, and if you do not have the new power-packed book, Turning Donors Into Disciples, then you will want to bring a group of leaders from your church to know how to be able to “do it by yourself” to plan successful giving programs through the next five years.

Do you like ethnic foods? Cultural variety? Fellowship, learning and fun? Plan on attending the third annual ethnic folk fair at Pilgrim, Wauwatosa, Sept. 25 from noon to 4 p.m.  New this year will be a presentation by Dr. Victor Raj, mission professor and assistant director of the Institute for Mission Studies at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. His presentation, “Christian Witnessing in the New America,” will precede the folk fair beginning at 10 a.m.

Fall administrators' conference
Sept. 30 - Oct. 1, 2010
Hawthorn Inn and Suites, Oshkosh

"More than Mortar" (Nehemiah 2:20)

Did Nehemiah suceed?  You betcha!  You can too.
Are you sure God inspired your plan?  Has He commissioned you to accomplish it?
Then let nothing stop you from going forward because in that case you can't lose.

Early childhood literacy festival on the lake
Friday, Aug. 6, 2010 • 7:45 am - 3:45 pm
Concordia University Wisconsin, Mequon

You are invited to spend an exciting day with Denise Fleming, an author and award-winning illustrator of picture books for young children. Fleming's books are known for their energetic language. The words, usually action verbs, are used to complete and extend the intriguing images that are actually handmade paper!

Rev. Ken Klaus

Lutheran Hour Speaker Rev. Ken Klaus will preach at Milwaukee's 30th annual German Fest on Sunday, July 25, 2010 in the Marcus Amphitheater at the Henry W. Maier Festival Park. The worship service begins at 10:30 a.m. Admission is free for all attendees to this service and to the German Fest grounds after the worship service. There will be a mass German choir made up of members from the choirs of the Wisconsin Sängerbezirk on stage accompanied by the Alte Kameraden Band from Freistadt. Singers from area churches who would like to join this mass choir are welcome to participate. For more information contact Ron Kabitzke at (262) 675-6336 or e-mail texkabitz@att.net.

The South Wisconsin District disaster response team is trained and willing to help your congregation develop a plan for being prepared if a disaster strikes your church and/or community. Your congregation is invited to particpate in this free training. The next training is scheduled for Saturday, July 24, 2010, from 9 a.m to noon at Bethlehem (470 N. Oak Crest Dr., Wales, WI 53183). The same training will be offered again on Saturday, August 7, at St. John Lutheran Church (207 E. High St., Edgerton, WI 53534) from 9:00 a.m. until noon. For more information, please call Peg Raabe at the District office, (414) 464-8100.

Register online for July 24                Register online for August 7

Two opportunities for training to become a certified member of our district’s Lutheran Early Response Teams (LERT) have been scheduled. The first will be at Bethlehem, Wales (470 N. Oak Crest Dr., 53183), on Saturday, July 31, 2010, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The same workshop will also be held on Saturday, September 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church (207 E. High St., Edgerton, WI 53534). There is no cost to attend. Please register online or call Peg Raabe at the District office, (414) 464-8100.  

Online registration for July 31        Online registration for September 11

The date of this year’s annual golf outing for SWD church workers has been set for Aug. 2, 2010. Once again it will be held at the Rock River Hills Golf Club in Horicon. The registration cost of $40 per person includes a cart and lunch. Plan now to enjoy a day of fun and fellowship with your coworkers in our District.  Online registration • Mail in registration form

SWD Lutheran singles fall workshop
Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010 • 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Country Springs Hotel • 2810 Golf Rd., Pewaukee

Theme: "Lutheran Singles Following Christ"
FOLLOW: Follow, Outreach, Learning, Leadership, Organization, Worship
Speaker: Gary Janetzke
Cost: $40 (includes lunch)

A schedule is included on the flyer and registration form.

Before school workshop
Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2010
Hales Corners Lutheran • 12300 Janesville Rd.

Featuring First Stage Children's Theater
Utilizing the arts to educate all students

Please reserve your spot by June 15.  Cost: $15 per person; flyer with break out topics and registration information.

Mission and fishin' trip
Sept. 26-Oct. 1, 2010
Wind River Reservation, Wyo.
This fall enjoy the “Forever West” state of Wyoming Sept. 26-Oct. 1, 2010. Fish the trout-filled streams and lakes of the Wind River Basin and serve Christ and the Indian tribes on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Join South Wisconsin District President John Wille and Tim Dittloff as they partner with our brothers in Christ in the Wyoming District for this servant event. Brochure

The third national church planter training event, Church Planting Essentials, will be conducted on June 21-23, 2010, at the Alley Lutheran Church in Cottage Grove (Minneapolis area), Minnesota.

Church Planting Essentials is an intensive, three-day "turbo training" featuring content learning in the twelve biblical principles of church planting and interspersed with coaching, small-group interaction, networking with other church planters and development of the Mission Initiation Plan (MIP). Because "turbo training" is so information-rich, some have compared this training to drinking water from a fire hose... the learning comes hard and fast but definitely quenches the thirst for insight on how to plant a new church in our postmodern culture.

Registration deadline is June 7, 2010.

SWD youth and family day at Noah's Ark in Wisconsin Dells
Friday, June 25, 2010

   NATIONAL LCMS YOUTH GATHERING
   New Orleans, Louisiana
   July 17-21, 2010


Join the District event July 17 for a night-time cruise on New Orleans' only authentic steamboat along the Mississippi River with a three-piece band and hors d'oeuvres (12 pieces per person) and one soda each.

Golf outing and ministry partner builder
May 17, 2010 • The Meadows of Six Mile Creek, Waunakee
All proceeds support Camp LuWiSoMo's limited operations in 2010 and anticipated reopening in 2011. Not only a golf outing, the event invites everyone (golfer, non-golfers, individuals, families and congregations) to participate by becoming LuWiSoMo ministry partners. How can you help? Become a ministry partner as a congregation, encourage others to become ministry partners and/or register a foursome for the golf outing. Fun, fellowship and support of the LuWiSoMo outdoor ministry and mission are what May 17 is all about! For details and to tee up for LuWiSoMo, contact Carl Brakebush at carlbrakebush@brakebush.com or (608) 296-3828; or Dan and Diane Freiburger at dfreiburger@charter.net or (608) 849-8687. Golf outing registration is due April 30.

Registration brochure
Meadows of Six Mile Creek

Friday, June 25, 2010
Kettle Hills Golf Course
3375 State Road 167 • Richfield, WI
(Registration deadline: June 11)
Registration brochure 

Enjoy a great round of golf with cart, beverages, prizes and lunch. At the same time you'll be helping with a very important fund raiser. The camp board of directors is working hard to have a fully operational camp by the summer of 2011. Cost per golfer of $100 includes a $50 tax deductible donation to Camp LuWiSoMo in Wild Rose. Event sponsors will help defray the costs of the event and will be recognized during lunch. Hole sponsorships are also available.

Monday, April 12, 2010 ♦ 7 p.m.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Atlanta Hawks

Fan Appreciation Night—all fans in attendance will receive the official full color collectible 2009-10 Bucks team photo. Surprises throughout the night!

Upper level $37 seats are only $10!

This year's theme is "Living the Adventure... with the Heroes of the Faith" in the context of teaching, learning social skills, and building caring relationships with each other. These workshops will assist you in enhancing the faith development and worship experiences of the children entrusted to you. Faith development teaching strategies with:

• Make and take activities
• New fingerplays, chants and songs
• Opening and closing worship ideaa

Sunday, April 18, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Pleasant Prairie
Monday, April 26, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, Waukesha
Monday, May 3, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, Sheboygan

The 2010 spring pastors' conference will be held at the Olympia Resort and Conference Center in Oconomowoc.  The theme for the conference is "Healthy Pastors Out of the Box."  The presenter, Jim Galvin, is an organizational consultant specializing in strategy, change and leadership development for faith-based nonprofits. To prepare for the conference, please read Leadership and Self-Deception, the 2010 edition, put out by the Arbinger Institute. You can find it on Amazon.com or order from any bookstore. Olan Mills will take photos for a new SWD pastor pictorial directory. 

Immediately following the conference, a pre-retirement seminar is being held at the Olympia resort.

April 23-25 and April 30-May 2, 2010, are the dates set for spring work weekends at Camp LuWiSoMo in Wild Rose. Without staff, many volunteers are needed to prepare the grounds—please share the word. Projects include cutting firewood for the campground; piers at the lakefront; general maintenance; running electrical and water lines at the campground. 

Volunteers are asked to donate $25 for food and lodging for the weekend as there is no staff and food will need to be purchased and prepared. For reservations, contact Craig Hillman by e-mail or at (608) 524-6448. Persons willing to help in the kitchen may contact Janey Heckendorf. 

If you are a modern-day “senior,” you won’t want to miss this year’s Gathering at Cedar Valley! The theme this year is “God’s Gifted Seniors—Yesterday and Today.” Cedar Valley Retreat and Conference Center is located about 10 miles west of West Bend. There is a $65 registration fee, with the option of coming the evening of May 18 (at additional cost) for a dinner and fireside chat with Rev. Mark Jeske. Register online or by mail. Please call the District office at (414) 464-8100 to see if room is still available before you register..

Download a registration brochure   

SWD congregational leadership conference
“Making use of our God-given gifts”
March 13, 2010 • 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Lake Country Lutheran High • Hartland

At the conference learn and interact with…

• Concordia Plan Services representatives
• Church Mutual representatives on ways to reduce risk and liability in your congregation
• “Mission leaders” within the SWD and the world; learn how you can help these efforts
• District staff and the resources they provide
• Forms of congregational governance
• How to engage more people in ministry

April 14, 2010 • Locations in Oconomowoc and Milwaukee
Concordia Plan Services and the SWD are conducting two pre-retirement workshops for professional church workers and their spouses to help them better understand the process of planning for retirement. These introductory workshops will include information on budgeting and finance, retirement income, envisioning retirement lifestyle, health concerns, where to live and what to do with your time in retirement.

National Lutheran School Funding Academy and Funding Academy Webinars
LCMS School Ministry has announced the availability of three Funding Academy options for 2010. the three programs being offered are: Funding Academy I, Funding Academy II and a series of Funding Academy webinars.

In the event of a disaster, by federal mandate any volunteers responding to the disaster must be trained and certified or they will be turned away. Our Synod’s program complies with all of the federal government’s criteria for this certification. If you are interested in this kind of in-depth training to become a certified disaster team member, you may be interested in "Lutheran Early Response Training" (LERT) offered in the South Wisconsin District this spring at Good Shepherd, 4311 104th St., Pleasant Prairie, on April 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Feb. 13: Calvary, Madison
• March 13: South Wisconsin District office, Milwaukee
• April 10: Trinity, Wisconsin Dells
• May 8: Hope, Fond du Lac
• June 5: St. Peter, Reedsburg

Sessions run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. each date.

Dead Sea Scrolls and the Bible: Ancient Artifacts, Timeless Treasures brings together archaeological objects and manuscripts to tell a story 2,000 years in the making. Witness actual Dead Sea Scrolls and other early biblical artifacts to learn how transmission of these early writings has shaped the beliefs of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Lost and Found will perform at Trinity Lutheran Church in Menasha on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010, at 7 p.m.

"Preparing administrators as leaders in technology"
Jan. 26, 2010

The topic for this year is "Preparing Administrators as Leaders in Technology," presented by Dr. Perry Bresemann, associate director of schools / national director of technology for schools for the Board of District and Congregational Services - School Ministry. Bresemann's sessions are intended to expand on the quality and meaningful advice participants received at the fall conference last October.

Jan. 11-12, 2010, is the date for the pastors' pre-Lenten retreat to be held at the Best Western Lakefront Hotel in Manitowoc.  The theme this year will be "Jonah: The Survivor Series,"  presented by Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing, professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. The series will include sermon and worship resources for the six weeks of Lent, Passion Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday.  Deadline for registrations is Dec. 4, 2009. 

Register online • Flyer/mail in registration 

Pastoral health goes beyond working out and eating well. As redeemed Christians, we deal with many things in pastoral ministry that affects our physical, mental and spiritual lives. At the fall pastoral conference Dr. Bruce Hartung and Dr. Daniel Preus will be sharing things that affect our health as individuals and within our congregations. Sign up now for the fall conference at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel in Appleton Nov. 2-4, 2009.

The North Wisconsin District has planned an Ablaze! Tailgate II event, scheduled for Sunday, October 11 at  St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1919 Wyatt Ave. in Stevens Point. All are invited to attend the activities from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature Ida Mall, former national LWML President and current Ablaze! Ambassador, workshops, a puppet show, burgers and brats. Childcare will be available and activities for elementary and older children as well. Tickets for Adults and Youth are $5, kids 5 and under are free. Families of 3 or more are $15.   Flyer    Registration form   
 

The 2009 fall pastors' conference will be held Nov. 2-4 at the Radisson Papter Valley Hotel in Appleton.  The theme for the conference is "Healthy Pastors."  The main presenters are Rev. Dr. Bruce Hartung, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis and Rev. Dr. Daniel Preus, Luther Academy director.

Sept. 9, 2009 • 6:30 p.m. (new time) • Elm Grove
On Wednesday evening, Sept. 9, Elm Grove Lutheran has the honor of hosting a “double hitter” beginning at 6:30 p.m. (new time). The evening begins with a presentation on “The Gift of Prayer” by the world-renowned teacher of Lutheran spirituality, Rev. Dr. John Kleinig. Following the lecture, the SWD “Partnership in Seminary Education” is celebrating its opening service at 7:45 p.m., first by having its students participate in the conversation with Kleinig, but also with an exhortation by President John Wille in a special Compline service. Local Hmong, African and Elm Grove choirs have been invited to sing during the service along with other musicians. The evening will conclude with a wine and cheese reception, with wines from around the world.
Flyer 

On Saturday, Sept. 26 (12:00 Noon – 6:00 p.m.) the 2nd Annual Lutheran Ethnic Folk Fair will be held at the gym of Pilgrim Lutheran Church, 6717 W. Center Street, Wauwatosa. Highlighted will be ministries in the District to the Hmong, Hispanics, English and French-speaking African Immigrants, and Chinese. Young and old will find something enjoyable to see, hear, taste, experience as the various ethnic groups will share their various cultures through music, singing, unique food, cultural dress.

On Sept. 18-19, 2009, Mt. Calvary (2862 N. 53rd St.), Milwaukee will offer a free pesentation by Rev. Kelly Bedard, currently serving Trinity, Algiers Point, a New Orleans suburb. Bedard will share how God has blessed his 20-plus years of outreach-centered ministry. Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information, please call Matthew Cantu at Mt. Calvary’s church office, (414) 873-3931.    Flyer 

Christians desire to share their faith with people they know – many struggle with how to do so. If that even comes close to describing you then you will want to be at the “Dinky Little Cogs – Sharing Christ Workshop.” This workshop will be held on Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Prince of Peace, W156N7149 Pilgrim Rd., Menomonee Falls, WI 53051.

Registration flyer 

2009 North/South Wisconsin District Teachers' Conference
"Rooted In Christ"
November 1-3, 2009
Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells

Northern Illinois District outreach network event Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009

St. Paul Lutheran Church
100 S. School St.
Mount Prospect, IL

Congregation leaders are encouraged to learn and share what’s working and what isn’t in evangelism at a Northern Illinois district-wide networking event.

Evangelism idea exchange • Register online

Rev. Dr. Patrick Ferry

The annual retreat for retired pastors, wives and widows will be held at the Ramada Inn in Stevens Point. Organized by the South Wisconsin District, it will be a joint event with the North Wisconsin District. The date is set for Oct. 13 and 14, 2009, beginning Tuesday at 9:45 a.m. and ending with lunch at noon on Wednesday. Rev. Dr. Patrick Ferry will be the featured presenter.

Registration flyer

Cedar Valley Gathering looks at aging—positively!

Dr. Richard Bimler shares his knowledge and experience in “Positively Aging.”

On May 20, 2009, a gathering of 94 people met for a day of listening and sharing at Cedar Valley Retreat and Conference Center near West Bend. Together they looked at Scripture, enjoyed insights into the art of aging positively, ate breakfast, lunch and dinner together, and raised a glass of wine and wished farewell to Jim Farrelly (District executive for human care and older adult ministry) and his wife, Marlys. Farrelly will retire June 30. But most of all, they laughed with each other and at themselves!

Plan for a day of great golf and fellowship with church workers from around the District.

Rock River Hills Golf Club, Horicon
July 13, 2009

18 holes of golf with cart and lunch included for just $35 per person!

Register now 

Aug. 14, 2009 • Waushara Country Club, Wautoma
Golfer registration fee of $75 includes lunch, golf, cart, beverage, hors d’oeuvres, prizes and a $50 donation to the camp. Hole and golfer sponsorships are also available. Register by July 31. Contact Camp LuWiSoMo with questions, (920) 622-3350 or camp@luwisomo.org.   Flyer

SWD Lutheran singles road trip to Creation Museum
Sept. 11-13, 2009 • Lexington, KY and Cincinnati, OH

Come for a weekend of fellowship and learning with other Lutheran single adults from around the country.

Church Professional's Retreat
Nov. 8-10, 2009
Best Western Hotel & Conference Center Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Providing LCMS church professionals in Illinois, south Wisconsin and eastern Iowa the opportunity to experience community through refreshment, renewal and growth in body, mind, soul and spirit.

Nov. 5-7, 2008
Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells
"Such confidence we have through Christ before God" (2 Cor. 3:4, TNIV)

 For details, schedule, lodging, registration and more, click here!

SOLD OUT - The 5th annual Lutheran schools day at Miller Park will be held Saturday, May 10, 2008. The Milwaukee Brewers will be facing the St. Louis Cardinals. The game time was changed from 6 pm to 2:45 pm because it will be televised on FOX.

"Teaching the faith" is a workshop to assist you in enhancing the faith development and worship experiences of children entrusted to you. This workshop is for all who work with children from 0-8 years of age.

The 2008 South Wisconsin District spring pastor's conference will be held at the Manitowoc Holiday Inn April 7-9, 2008. The theme for the conference is "One God, two kingdoms, many callings: The importance of Lutheran doctrine for an election year." The main presenters are Dr. Dale Meyer, president of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and Dr. Uwe Siemon-Netto, director of the Center for Lutheran Theology and Public Life. Other topics of interest will be the introduction of Doxology, the new Revitialization process for congregations; an exegetical study on marriage; as well as important reports from the District. Room reservations must be made directly with the Holiday Inn by calling (920) 682-6000 by March 17, 2008, to receive the conference rate. Don't miss this opportunity to glean valuable information and enjoy the fellowship of worshiping and socializing together.  

Schedule • Register online • Instructions

Event photo gallery

Initial training for the 2008 campus missionary institute (CMI), will be held on the Concordia University Wisconsin campus June 12-17. CMI is the Lutheran Campus Mission Association’s in-depth learning opportunity to help workers and the ministries they serve develop and implement a strategic plan for outreach on a nearby college or university campus. CMI is sponsored by the Lutheran Campus Mission Association, an organization with ties to LCMS World Mission.

Can you imagine what an encounter between Jesus and a Muslim person would be like today? Do you think Jesus would unleash a barrage of condemnation? Or do you think he’d ask for an invitation to dine in a Muslim’s home? 

These questions and others will be explored at the first-ever Friendship of Jesus and Muslims Conference, April 3-6 at the Crowne Plaza (airport) Hotel in Detroit. Open to all LCMS members, the conference is cosponsored by LCMS World Mission and People of the Book Lutheran Outreach (POBLO), a Dearborn Heights, Mich.-based mission society that reaches out to Muslims in the United States and South Asia.

South Wisconsin District's older adult ministry committee presents 
The 11th annual
Cedar Valley gathering 
May 13-14, 2008 • West Bend, Wisconsin

With all religions claiming to teach the truth, what makes Christianity any different? "A day with Dr. Maier" will answer that question at the LCMS South Wisconsin District 11th annual Cedar Valley gathering for older adults, May 13-14, 2008. Dr. Paul L. Maier will lead the retreat in "Looking at Christ’s clear credentials and the competition.  Brochure (PDF)   Register online

Date:           April 11-13, 2008
Place:          Trinity, Sheboygan
Speaker:     Rev. Alan G. Boeck, associate pastor, St. John, Portage

“Let us go to the small towns…” (Mark 1:38)

Rural churches—many are graying, dwindling, dying...    

NCD (Natural Church Development) is all about releasing the potential that God has already implanted in our lives. Based on research in more than 40,000 churches on six continents and in more than 70 countries, NCD describes universal principals that are applicable regardless of culture. NCD focuses on increasing quality rather than on numerical goals. This emphasis on Church health has proven to be the key to ongoing growth. Are you interested in learning more and coaching others?

Tom Acton and Gary Janetzke will present phase 1 of basic coach training Feb. 25-27 at Our Savior Deaf in Madison.

Oktoberfest celebration
Saturday, October 27, 2007 • 6-10 p.m.
Immanuel Lutheran Church
13445 W. Hampton Rd., Brookfield

Featuring wonderful German buffet dinner, silent and live auction, music and fellowship...

Fall Pastors’ Conference
October 29-31, 2007 ● Heidel House Resort, Green Lake
The conference theme is “Conversations about the faith” and will feature live broadcasts of the radio program Issues, Etc. We will be the live audience Monday and Tuesday as Rev. Todd Wilken interviews guests about a variety of theological issues. Rev. Larry Myers will share his extensive knowledge of the sites of the German Reformation and experience as a tour leader, taking us on a stroll in the footsteps of Martin Luther.

Fall fiscal conference
September 29, 2007
Milwaukee Lutheran High School
8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Pastors and congregation leaders are invited to come and learn how to use the gifts God has given to us wisely within our congregations and communities as we together seek to serve him in his kingdom.

Steven Cohen, founder of The Apple of His Eye mission society in St. Louis, will speak at Our Redeemer, 10025 W. North Ave. in Wauwatosa on Sunday, Sept. 9, at their 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. services.

"Idea Exchange" leads to fresh ideas for outreach... Free event Sept. 23 in Sturtevant.

PLEASE NOTE: This event has been cancelled due to low turnout. Please watch for another event coming in February.

Couples Planning Retreat
Sept. 7-8, 2007
InterContinental Hotel, Milwaukee
A retreat for all husbands and wives who serve their church and want to grow in their marriage.

“Our Iceberg Is Melting” is the theme for the fall 2007 principals' conference. The conference is built around change. Administrators must recognize the importance of change in our parishes, schools, and district.

Marriage in God's Way: A one-day workshop on August 25 to develop insight and skills with an awareness of God’s way for married, engaged or seriously dating couples.

"GIFTS:  God Is Flowing Thru Singles" - a weekend for fellowship, learning and revitalizing ministry to single adults in southern Wisconsin, Oct. 12-14, 2007, Copa Cabana Resort, Wisconsin Dells.

 Is it time for your congregation to think about having children?  Attend a 2-day seminar designed for congregation teams. 

 Daughter Church Planting Seminar
Oct. 5-6, 2007
Hope Lutheran Church  ♦  Fond du Lac, WI
Registration deadline is Sept. 7

Rev. David Andrus, executive director for Lutheran Blind Ministry, will present an informational workshop for those interested in outreach to the blind community on Sunday, Aug. 19, 2007, at Elm Grove Lutheran Church. It will be a one-hour presentation beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the church sanctuary.

Come as a family or come as a group! Enjoy over 80 family fun activities and an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. Cost is $26 for adults and $22 for children 12 and under. Click Buy Now to purchase or download the order form.  Tickets may be ordered through June 20.