Take a break from the business of everyday life and join us for a relaxing, faith-filled weekend at beautiful Camp Okoboji! Whether you’re hoping to make new friendships, grow in your faith, enjoy the outdoors, or simply recharge, this retreat offers the perfect opportunity.
We’ll gather on Friday evening, August 21, with a casual welcome as everyone arrives. Enjoy games, a campfire, s’mores, snacks, and drinks while getting to know one another in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t worry if you’re arriving later—someone will be there to greet you. We’ll be staying in the comfortable, air-conditioned Bethel Retreat Center, making for a cozy weekend away.
On Saturday, we’ll enjoy delicious meals together in the camp dining hall and spend time connecting through fellowship and faith.
Highlights include:
A welcoming session to meet new friends and reconnect with familiar faces
An encouraging Bible study (don’t forget your Bible!)
Breakout sessions designed specifically for men and women
Free time to explore the beautiful campgrounds, walk along the lake, relax with a cup of coffee, connect with new friends, or simply enjoy some quiet reflection
An opportunity for swimming in the lake (weather permitting)
An evening movie night
Plenty of opportunities for meaningful conversation, laughter, and fellowship throughout the weekend
Please bring your own bedding (a sleeping bag and pillow work great).
On Sunday morning, we’ll enjoy breakfast together before gathering for worship in the camp chapel, where we’ll celebrate the Lord’s Supper. After worship, we’ll pack up, tidy our space, and head home refreshed and encouraged.
If there’s something you’d love to see included in the weekend schedule, we’d love to hear your ideas!
Please help us spread the word by sharing this retreat with singles in your congregation, circuit, district, and beyond. Meaningful Christian friendships and encouragement are so important, and we’d love for others to experience this special weekend with us.
We can’t wait to welcome you in August!
Dr. Keith Schweitzer
641-745-5143
Unlock the Power of Connection: Small Talk for Real Relationships
Do you ever feel awkward in social settings or struggle to turn a simple “hello” into a meaningful conversation? Do you ever walk away thinking, ‘I could have done better?’ You aren’t alone. Whether you’re an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between, small talk is a learned skill that can transform how you connect with the world around you.
Join us for an engaging presentation where we move beyond “shallow” talk to explore how these daily interactions are actually the gateway to authentic, intimate connection. We’ll discuss how to make others feel seen, valued, and noticed—turning every conversation into a service to others.
In this session, you will learn:
- The Confidence to Engage: Practical tips on body language, approachable posture, and how to make a great first impression.
- Active Listening Secrets: How to truly be present, avoid common barriers, and master the “dance” of conversation.
- Finding Your Voice: Exercises to help you speak with confidence, emotion, and clarity.
- Conversation Starters & Exit Strategies: How to initiate a chat with ease and gracefully exit when it’s time to move on.
- Building Genuine Bonds: Strategies for moving from simple pleasantries to deeper, more authentic relational talks.
Remember, you are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’—and you have the tools to share that unique self with others.
Come ready to practice, connect, and transform your social life.