Sponsored by the District's older adult ministry committee, the Cedar Valley gathering welcomes active retirees and other adults seeking to increase their understanding of Christianity amidst the challenges of the world today. 

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

• Date: Tuesday and Wednesday, May 13-14, 2008
• Cost: $60, which includes Wednesday breakfast, lunch and dinner.
  Tuesday night reservations and evening dinner are on your own. Call directly to book a room, $50 single and $80 double occupancy.
• Location: Cedar Valley Retreat Center, approximately 10 miles west of West Bend.
• Speaker: Rev. Dr. Paul Maier
• Theme: Christ's clear credentials and the competition
• Registration deadline: April 28, 2008

At a time when media present caricatures of Christ, Rev. Dr. Paul Maier presents Christ's genuine portrait in light of evidence from history and archaeology.

The annual gathering features great speakers, delicious dining, pleasant facilities, scenic trails, and warm fellowship. Attend only the Wednesday sessions or stay overnight on Tuesday for a fireside chat with Maier.

A leading authority on biblical history, Maier is Russell H. Seibert professor of ancient history at Western Michigan University and second vice president of the LCMS. 

Cedar Valley Retreat Center is a scenic retreat in the Kettle Moraine. For late afternoon or sunrise, the 100-acre setting is the perfect place to relax, unwind and reflect. The beautifully manicured trails with thought-provoking sculptures make a pleasant setting.

Maier is a son of Walter A. Maier I, founder and longtime speaker of the Lutheran Hour. Like his father, Paul strongly identifies as a Christian, and his role as an apologist has become apparent in his cowriting of The Da Vinci Code: Fact or Fiction? with Christian apologist Hank Hanegraaff. A leading authority on the biblical world, his seminars add a fresh dimension to the Scriptures, illuminating them with evidence from archaeology and secular history. 

You may register online, or download the registration brochure for all the details about the retreat. Due to room and space limitations, registration is limited to 100 participants. 

If your organization is interested in sponsoring a display for $10 per table, please call the District office for further information, (414) 464-8100.