Winter Convocation 2025

Back To Events

Registration for this event has ended

At our 208th Convention, Bishop Jolly cast the vision for our diocese: “Connected in Beloved Community, we seek to be faithful, healthy, effective, and sustainable sharers of the transformative love of Jesus.”

Lay and clergy people of all ages from across the diocese are invited to Winter Convocation, January 31-February 1, at Sawmill Creek in Huron to learn tangible skills for how to live out our vision in our faith communities and across the Diocese. We’ll be joined by two visiting trainers from The College for Congregational Development (CCD) who will lead us to deepen our faith and build our practical skills for being the church in the world today. See their bios here.

We strongly encourage you to bring groups from your parish to participate. If you bring six or more participants from your congregation, the Diocese will reimburse half of the registration fees.

Childcare and interactive activities for youth will be available.

The cost to register is $50.00 for adults and $15.00 for children/youth. Registration includes the Convocation 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.

Deadlines:

• Online registration will close end of the day on January 17, 2025.

• Same-day registration (cash/check only) will be available at Sawmill Creek on both Friday, January 31 and Saturday, February 1.

Lodging Options:

• We have a block of rooms reserved at Sawmill Creek for a rate of $146.74 per night (taxes are included in the price). Please use this link to reserve your space. Use Group Code: 2502EPISCO and make sure to select “Sawmill Creek by Cedar Point Resorts” as the property.

• The Comfort Inn, 5909 Milan Rd., Sandusky OH 44870 is conveniently located less than 5 miles from Sawmill. 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. All of these amenities are available at a discounted rate of $89.00 per night. On or after January 24th the rate will increase to $129.00. 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 (2-11 years old) 

A children’s program will be provided at Sawmill Creek in a secured room equipped with trained childcare providers, enrichment activities, and snacks. This will be available Friday: 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - Noon (lunch with parents) and 1:15 p.m. - 3:45 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. Contact Eric Travis with any questions.

Youth Get-Together (12-17 years old)

Youth ages 12–17 are vital members and leaders of the church and are encouraged to participate in the convocation offerings alongside their faith communities while also connecting with peers. Youth will have the chance to work with their congregations while also participating in dynamic “Youth Connection” events on Friday night and Saturday afternoon, including a Youth Luncheon. All youth events will take place at Sawmill Creek. Contact Russ Tripi with any questions.

Clergy Spouse and Partner Ministry

Our clergy spouse and partner ministry will gather for lunch on Saturday during Convocation at Sawmill Creek.  All clergy spouses and partners are invited to attend for fellowship and resource sharing. To RSVP for this luncheon please include your name and email address. Contact Clergy Spouse Convener and Chaplain Kim Lager with any questions. 

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions:

What are my transport/parking options for the event?
Onsite parking is free at Sawmill Creek. Please be advised that there is some distance between the on-site lodging and the conference center, where we will gather. You may wish to drive from your room to the conference center entrance.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please contact the Rev. Canon Jessie Dodson, Canon to the Ordinary, with any questions.

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 the Rev. Canon Jessie Dodson, Canon to the Ordinary.

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.

What's the schedule for the event?
Friday:

• Registration and event check-in will be open beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, January 31.

• The event will officially kick-off at 6:30 p.m. that evening with worship and an interactive presentation.

• A hearty reception will be served from 8:00-9:00 p.m. with a bar available (alcohol will be available for purchase with a credit card.)

Saturday:

• Continental breakfast will be available for all participants from 7:30-8:30 a.m.

• Saturday registration and event check-in will be open at 7:45 a.m.

• The day will officially begin with Eucharist at 8:30 a.m. and activities will continue from there until the event's conclusion around 3:45 p.m.