As Lutheran Christians, we hold onto the doctrine of Jesus as True God and True Man as it is clearly outlined in Scripture. This spiritual concept lies at the center of our discussion for The Katie 2023. When we recognize Jesus as the very definition of truth, we are better able to grasp our own true identity as people created, saved, and sanctified by the Living God. That understanding colors first our relationship with God and then with each other. And may even have an impact on our relationship with ourselves. True God/True Man/True You will lean primarily upon the Gospel of John for instruction, insight, and challenge as together we dive even deeper into our relationship with the Lord.
When & Where
Bay City
April 21, 2023 - April 23, 2023
DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City – RiverfrontOne Wenonah Park Place
Bay City, MI, 48708
Presenters
Speaker
Carolyn Bira
Carolyn wears many hats, just like every woman in America. She is first and foremost a Christ-follower who happens to write a little and loves to spend time in the Word with God’s people. Because God is a giver of blessings, she has been married to Cliff for 44 years and has two beautiful daughters, two amazing sons-in-law, and five outstanding grandchildren. She writes for Visual Faith Ministry and this year’s Bible studies will come from her next book about the Gospel of John. Having heard her speak at The Katie numerous times, many of you will already be prepared for some solid Bible study, a few laughs, and maybe some personal introspection based on God’s Word. If this is your first time, well, you’ll just have to come and see what happens!
Counselor
Cheryl Spaulding
Cheryl Spaulding, LMSW (Licensed Masters Social Worker) has an MA in Counseling and certification in Spiritual Direction under Newway Ministries. She provides individual and marriage counseling through her ministry, Morning Star Ministries. She also leads day retreats for women, an annual weekend women’s retreat, and facilitates support and discipleship groups. She has been in private practice for over 25 years. Prior to her private practice, Cheryl worked in the area of crisis intervention and was on staff as Director of Counseling Ministries at Faith, Troy. She has over 40 years of experience in the field of counseling and spiritual direction. Cheryl and her husband Robin are passionate about small group and marriage ministry and have been leading in-house groups for over 30 years.
Entertainment
Free Shrugs Improv
FREE SHRUGS IMPROV is a team of performers dedicated to providing clean comedy and family-friendly entertainment. Their presentation includes an interactive series of skits and games based on your suggestions. The result is an experience of hilarious fun and laughter you won’t soon forget. Founder Brian Dumont, along with Chris Dennis, Larry Moshkosky, Rachel Whittaker and Cassie Davis, met at Mount Hope Church in Lansing and began performing improvisational comedy together in 2002. They have performed at events, festivals and fundraisers for corporations, non-profit organizations and churches across the state.
Registration
Registration is now closed.
Deadline to register is March 27, 2023.
Conference Costs
2 Night Conference Rate (Two nights lodging, four meals)
- Single Occupancy $330
- Double Occupancy $217
- Triple Occupancy $180
- Quad Occupancy $161
1 Night Conference Rate - available for either Friday or Saturday (One night lodging, three meals)
- Single Occupancy $198
- Double Occupancy $142
- Triple Occupancy $123
- Quad Occupancy $113
Commuter Rate
- $98 All Meals
- $60 Saturday Lunch and Dinner
- $25 Saturday Lunch only
Free Time Activity -
We are offering two free time activities
- Card Project (see Additional Information below). This is limited to 25 people so please indicate if you would like to participate on your registration.
- Mat Making - Please indicate participation on registration.
Compassion Ministry
In support of the Michigan District Critical Targets, specifically Great Compassion Ministry, The Katie 2023 has partnered with the Redeemer, Interlochen Baby Pantry and The Luke Clinic
Redeemer Interlochen Baby Pantry | The Luke Clinic
Amazon Wish Lists: Redeemer, Interlochen | The Luke Clinic
There will be a donation box outside of the Grand Ballroom Salon AB to place items or you can ship items directly to them via their Amazon Wish Lists.
Additional Information
Free Time Activities
Craft Project: Iris Folding – Affirmation Cards
Our craft project this year will be greeting cards to send to the women in our lives. Just as each woman is unique, a variety of colors and textures will be available to create a “dress” specifically designed for the recipient. An assortment of affirming scriptures and messages will also be available to choose from, or you can write your own personal note. If you have never tried iris folding, don’t worry. While it looks complicated, it is really easy (but you don’t have to let your friend know that)!
Space is limited to the first 25 registrations. Please indicate if you’d like to participate on your online registration submission.
Mats for the Homeless – Please indicate if you’d like to participate on your online registration submission.
Scholarships Available
We are pleased to offer scholarships again this year! If you are in need of scholarship assistance, please contact Debbie Hughes at the District Office.
ALL first-time attendees will receive a $50 scholarship thanks to a generous grant from the Church Extension Fund of the Michigan District, LCMS.
Widows will receive $50 off if registered by March 27, 2023.
Counseling:
Counseling appointments (45 minutes each) will be available during the conference by licensed counselor Cheryl Spaulding. Sign up for a session today! Counseling Sign Up Form
Dining Options:
- Doubletree – Riverfront Grille and Lounge
- Lunch/Dinner Menu
- Located on the first floor across from hotel lobby
- Downtown Bay City Dining Options
Covid Protocols
A note regarding the COVID-19 pandemic: If you are feeling unwell or have any symptoms of COVID prior to arrival, please stay home. The Michigan District will follow any mask mandates by the MDHHS, local health departments, or venues that are in place at the time of an event or conference.
The Katie Goals and Objectives
- Provide a safe, comfortable time of refreshment and encouragement that encompasses laughter and enjoyment with one another.
- Foster spiritual growth through intentional Bible study and relevant speakers.
- Provide a rich atmosphere for relationship development and support using relational strategies, games, and opportunities for interaction.
- Identify the tensions and challenges that are unique to the role of a pastor’s wife by providing opportunities for conversation and individual support.