Winter Convocation 2024

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Just as a single drop of water causes ripples across the water, so are we called to spread the news of God's love and be examples of Jesus in our communities. The College of Congregational Development (CCD) is built to help equip clergy and lay leaders with the knowledge, skills, and practices needed to develop their congregations to be more faithful, healthy, effective, and sustainable communities who share the love of Jesus. Join us at Winter Convocation, February 2-3, at Kalahari Convention Center in Sandusky to get a one day preview of CCD that you can immediately apply in your congregational setting. We strongly encourage you to bring groups from your parish to participate. If you bring six or more adults from your congregation, the Diocese will reimburse half of the adult registration fees.

The cost to register is $50.00 for adults, $15.00 for a child under the age of 13 years old and $120.00 for a family residing in the same household.

This is an opportunity for people across the diocese to gather and become engaged and inspired with ideas and information to help us move forward into the future together.

Half Price Parish Team Discount:

Bring six or more adults from your congregation and we will reimburse your parish half your adult registration fees! Have each person register on their own (and pay in full). After Convocation we will send your parish a reimbursement check. We will rely on you and your parish to take it from there.

Lodging Options:

• Kalahari Resort and Convention center is home to the largest indoor water park in the US, as well as spas, shopping, restaurants, WI-FI and much more for all ages. For $169 discounted rate you can stay at Kalahari Resort on Friday night, and you'll get up to four tickets to the water park, good from noon Friday to at least 3pm Saturday. There are a limited number of rooms available. For amenities visit the Kalahari website. To make reservations at Kalahari visit: https://book.passkey.com/e/50656258.
• The Comfort Inn, 5909 Milan Rd., Sandusky OH 44870 is conveniently located less than a mile from Kalahari. Each suite has a mini-fridge and microwave. Breakfast is included with your overnight stay and offers hot options. An on-site restaurant and live entertainment are available. Wi-Fi access, copy and fax services. Guest laundry facilities, a newsstand and game room are located on the premises. All of these amenities are available at a discounted rate of $89.00 per night. On or after Jan 25th the rate will increase to $109.00. To make reservations at Comfort Inn please call 419.621.0200 and be sure to mention “Diocese of Ohio" or "Winter Convocation” event to receive the special group rate.

Children’s Program (infant-12 years old), and Youth Lock-In (12-17 years old)

• A children’s program will be provided at Kalahari in a secured room equipped with trained child care providers, enrichment activities, and snacks. Child Care is available Friday: 6:30 p.m. – 9:15 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - Noon (lunch with parents) and 1:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. A safety process for dropping off and picking up children will be utilized without exception and at least one parent must have a cell phone set to vibrate so they can be contacted during the conference quickly without disturbing others.
• Youth ages 12-17 years old are members and leaders of the church and are therefore invited to participate in the convocation offerings. As a cohort, we will join convocation activities. On Friday night, we will travel to Grace Church, Sandusky for games, food, and sleep. We’ll return to Kalahari in the morning.
• Water park tickets are available for children and youth, but will not be part of structured programs. Families can decide for themselves when and how they’d like to utilize the water park! (For example, one parent/friend taking children to the park in the morning, and another parent/friend taking them in the afternoon.)

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions:

What is my transport/parking options getting to the event?
Onsite parking is free at the Kalahari resort and convention center. Follow the signs to Entrance A. Shuttle transportation will not be available from the Comfort Inn to Kalahari.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please contact Antoinette Taylor, Missioner for Administration.

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?
Yes, please update your registration information accordingly.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No, we will generate a report as proof of registration.

Can I get a reduced rate if I only come on Saturday or choose not to eat the conference lunch, etc.?
Sorry, there are no reductions in the registration fees because this event is already significantly subsidized to bring the rates this low. All members of the Diocese of Ohio are invited and encouraged to attend, and scholarship help is available as needed. Please contact your parish priest or senior warden and have them contact Antoinette Taylor, Missioner for Administration.

What's included in my registration?
General Sessions, Friday reception with hearty hors d'oeuvre, coffee, tea, and water stations, buffet lunch, resources, and the opportunity to build relationships with your siblings in Christ.