Slideshow image
Save to your Calendar

October 12-14, 2025

+ Add-On Retreat Time:
Friday-Sunday, October 11-13

Location: Stoney Creek Hotel in La Crosse, WI

Register

Keynote Speaker:

Rev. Leila Ortiz

Bishop Emeritus of the Metro D.C. Synod, ELCA

 

"Baptism in Muddy Waters"

Together, we will explore how the Spirit is boldly drawing us into a pneumatological estuary of death and resurrection — a font of muddy, transformative material where what no longer serves us is submerged and new life emerges.
Drawing from Scripture, Lutheran theology, and contemplative practice, we will discover a refreshing opportunity to reclaim our baptismal identity as a source of courage and renewal. We will engage in vital conversations that will invite us to deepen our spiritual leadership and inspire new vision for navigating today's complex ministry challenges. Come eager to be renewed, emboldened, and sent forth with greater clarity about how our baptismal calling empowers truly transformational ministries and speaks life directly into our fractured world.

 

Registration

  • Register online here.
  • Cost: $200 early registration—through Sep. 10. ($250 late registration Sep. 11-24.)
  • Active pastors and deacons are expected to attend. If you are an active rostered minister in this synod and cannot attend, please contact Bishop Hassanally between September 1 and 15 to discuss. Other synod ministry leaders* and retired rostered ministers are welcome to attend. (*Ministry leaders can include SAMs, TEEMs, and worship and faith formation professionals.)

Lodging

  • You are responsible for lodging, which is not included in event registration.
  • There are rooms reserved for this event at Stoney Creek Hotel at a special rate.
  • Booking is open now! Deadline for discount: Wednesday, September 10, 2025, by 7 AM.
  • Discounted rate: $102/night (including add-on retreat dates)
  • Use booking code: 2025SEMS. Use this if asked for a promo or group code.
  • Book online at this link. (If you need to edit the dates, click on "modify" after clicking "Book Now.") Or call 608-781-3060, extension 2, for guest services.
  • The hotel has a 24-hour cancellation policy.

Stoney Creek Hotel

  • Located in the La Crosse area of Wisconsin
  • Amenities include: a fitness center, indoor/outdoor pool, and outdoor walking trails
  • Visit their website to learn more: stoneycreekhotels.com/hotel/la-crosse

The 2025 Offering Recipient: South Sudan 

This year’s Fall Theological Retreat offering will be directed to acute needs among our global companions in South Sudan. Recent USAID budget cuts have created immediate and serious challenges for families and communities already facing hardship. Through this offering, we are able to stand alongside our siblings in Christ, sharing resources that will provide tangible support in the midst of these urgent needs. As the event gets closer, we will share additional details. For now, we invite you to prepare to give generously, trusting that your gifts will be used faithfully and directly to strengthen the church’s witness of hope and solidarity in South Sudan.

GIVE ONLINE HERE

Each year, a specific focus for the Fall Theological offering is determined through careful and intentional discernment.
As you prepare for this event, keep in mind this opportunity.

Schedule

  • Sunday (Oct. 12)
    Registration will open around 4 PM, with dinner and worship provided in the evening.
  • Monday (Oct. 13)
    The day will include speaker sessions, lunch, worship, and workshops.
  • Tuesday (Oct. 14)
    The final day will include speaker sessions and closing worship. We will be done by noon.

Add-On Retreat Time: Friday-Sunday, October 10-12

  • This is an optional unstructured time. For those who are looking for some extra time to retreat away from everyday life. This could be on your own, with colleagues/friends, family, or not,... this is a chance for you to do what you need.
  • This portion is NOT part of the expectations of rostered ministers. That's why we are calling it an "Add-On"!

What to Bring

While it is up to you to bring what you need, here are a few things that you may not have considered:

  • Reusable drinking vessel(s) for water, coffee, tea, etc.
  • An offering will be received, so plan to bring whatever you may want to participate.
  • Outdoor walking shoes.
  • Layers! The indoor temperatures can fluctuate, so plan accordingly.
  • Note-taking supplies.

 

Office of the Bishop Contact Person: