The Advent of Advent

Hello Dianne,

As I prepare this note for you, we are between the first and second Sundays of Advent. Yes, Advent is here, and Christmas is a mere 18 days away. The Hebrew prophet, Isaiah opens Advent with a plea for God to tear open the heavens, get down here, and make things right! In Mark’s gospel, Jesus states, “But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven.” Welcome to Advent and the tension between these apocalyptic images and the trust that we also put in Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. I am profoundly grateful that by Christmas, Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love win out.

In many ways, the challenges that UCCI has faced in recent years resonate with this same tension between ‘the end is near,’ and the trust in God’s presence among us as we strive to further the ministry of unconditional love and extravagant hospitality in God’s creation.

I express my deepest gratitude to those who have responded with gifts to UCCI through our 🔥 Ignite Generosity year-end appeal. We have truly been blessed with some large gifts that encourage each of us to contribute in a meaningful way. If you have not already given, will you help us reach our year-end goal of $175,000 and set the stage for a foundation of donor support going into 2024?

I am also excited to share that registration for 2024 events will be opening soon. We are opening registration in segments to allow our staff to be better able to support your needs. More detailed information about the 2024 schedule of events and registration is below. We eagerly look forward to sharing time in our sacred spaces next year!

As we navigate this challenging yet magical season, may you be wrapped in God's blessings. Wishing you all the warmth and joy that this season brings, 

Jim

executivedirector@ucci.org

We are pleased to share the 2024 schedule of camps, retreats, and events with you. Head over to the website to browse the list of events for Cedar Valley, Moon Beach, and Camp AweSum. Daycholah Center's schedule is still in development, and we look forward to sharing it with you very soon.

Similarly to last year, registration will open as a rolling start. Mark your calendars with these reminders:

Important Dates and Info

Similarly to last year, registration will open in segments. Mark your calendars with reminders for the dates shown below. In preparation, use this link to create or log into your registration account. We recommend updating all contact information and participant details ahead of time. We are also happy to announce that we will be able to register you by phone. Additional information and support for registration will be shared again by email and social media.

Cedar Valley

All 2024 art workshops will open for registration on

Monday, December 11, 2023 at noon.

Moon Beach

Events scheduled from now through March 31, 2024, will open for registration on Monday, December 11, 2023, at noon.

Camps and events scheduled from April 1 - Dec. 31, 2024, will open for registration on Monday, January 8, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.

Yes, this is when summer family camps will open!

Camp AweSum

Camp AweSum Family Camps will open for registration on

Monday, January 15, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.

Daycholah Center

Daycholah Center camps and events will open for registration on Monday, January 15, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.

NEW! Winter Family Fun

January 12-14, 2024

Join us for a laid-back weekend of Northwood's winter family fun and relaxation at Moon Beach! We can 99.9% guarantee snow and 100% guarantee fun! More info.

NEW! Adult Winter Getaway January 19-21, 2024

Recover from the hustle and bustle of the holidays with a serene winter weekend at Moon Beach. Whether you're an individual seeking solace, a couple desiring a quiet retreat, or a group of friends in search of both outdoor adventures and fireside relaxation, Moon Beach beckons.

More info.

Women's Winter Wild Weekend

February 23-25, 2024

Calling all "Wild Women" for a wonderful weekend retreat! WWWW offers moments of personal reflection, singing, crafts, group activities, and enjoying fellowship time.

More info.

Frosty Birches with Alcohol Ink with Beth Kluth

January 13, 2024

9am-12pm

We'll use masking techniques to create the contrast between the textured trees and the night sky. No experience needed and all supplies included. More info.

New! Basket Weaving: Cracker Basket with Terri Feutz

January 20, 2024

9am-12pm

Learn the basics of basket weaving while creating a cracker basket. No experience needed and all supplies included. More info.

Watercolor Excitement with Joyce Eesley

February 2-4, 2024

Join us for this popular watercolor weekend offering guided demonstrations and ample painting time. More info.

High schoolers and college-age young adults, join us for an experience that transcends the ordinary—because your weekend deserves to be extraordinary. Press pause on the stress of school life and get ready for a weekend of relaxation, camaraderie with friends, and an infusion of winter camp excitement that will recharge your spirits and take your faith journey to new heights!

This event is brought to you by the Wisconsin Conference UCC and UCCI. It's a low-key weekend where you can unwind, connect, and make some good memories. See you there! More info.