Connect Conference to Launch in 2017

The first newly designed Connect Family Conference will be held 3-6 August 2017 at the Lachen Gästerhäuser in Neustadt an der Weinstrasse, Germany.  The theme for the weekend conference is Ephesians 4:16: “From whom the whole body, joined and held together, so that it builds itself up in love.”

The conference will begin on Thursday at 17:00 and will continue through Sunday afternoon. The schedule will feature a worship service each day, some seminars for spiritual growth, and a children’s program. Teens will have some events as well.  There is something for everyone. Afternoons will be free for recreational activities or sightseeing.  Evenings will feature a relaxed program geared towards families.      The campus is a former French air base, located in a beautiful area of western Germany.  It’s a Christian retreat center now with wonderful accommodations. We have reserved rooms in two buildings on the grounds that include single, double, and multiple bed rooms, either with or without private showers and toilets. There is room on the grounds for campers and tents, or you may choose to stay at one of the nearby local hotels.

There is a beautiful, recently remodeled chapel that will more than meet our needs, as well as conference rooms, children’s ministry area, and an arts and craft area — complete with a kiln for pottery making.  The grounds include many amenities, including a free pool for all guests, volleyball, football, basketball, and bicycling. There’s a children’s area, spots for bonfires, and plenty of room for private or small group getaways.

Conference rates are still being determined but they will include packages with accommodation and meals.

Neustadt an der Weinstrasse is located near the French border, within easy driving distance from Frankfurt, Kaiserslautern, Heidelberg, and Stuttgart.  Local attractions include a nearby amusement park, historic cities of Worms and Heidelberg, the Rhine River valley, several historic castles, and the museum in Speyer.

Space will be limited the first year – so mark your calendars now and plan to attend. Go to www.lachen-diakonissen.de/index/lachener-gaestehaeuser/for information and photos of the grounds.