Single Moms Retreat
Single Moms Retreat
Gather with single moms from across Minnesota for a weekend of biblical teaching and a time to relax, refresh, and have some fun.
Our mission is to show attendees extravagant love and encourage each woman to dream BIG dreams with God.
Join Us:
- May 29-30, 2026
- Lake Geneva Christian Center (Alexandria, MN)
- Main Sessions, Multiple Workshops, and Lots of Activities & Giveaways, including Car Care, a Salon & Spa, SMR Boutique, Kids Books, After-Party, and much more!
- Attend, Volunteer, Invite, or Donate
- Register (Please note: tickets are non-refundable but are transferrable.)
Donate
There are a lot of ways to support the Single Moms Retreat! See the list below for ways you might donate toward the event.
BOOKS
- Donate new or like-new Bibles and children’s Bibles.
- Donate Kids Books (Guidelines: For ages 0-6; like-new, with no tattered/colored-on/scuffed pages or edges; and no controversial topics, wizards, nor magic.)
- Email info@mnbtg.org with interest.
- Print receipt for donated merchandise.
CAR CARE
- Learn More
- Donate (Enter your donation amount. On the next screen, click on “Donation Message,” and enter “SMR26” to designate your tax deductible donation for the retreat.)
FUNDS
- Donate finances toward event costs and scholarships.
- This event would not be possible without the generosity of individual and corporate sponsors and donors. Email info@mnbtg.org for details on sponsorship opportunities and benefits!
GIFTS
- Donate a gift or gift basket for one recipient, or donate a session gift for all attendees. See our wishlist, and RSVP with what you would like to give. Donations are being accepted through May 10.
- Print receipt for donated merchandise.
KOHL’S CASH & GIFT CARD BALANCES
- Donate unused Kohl’s Cash or gift card balances (e.g. Walmart, Target, etc.) to be used to purchase items toward the Single Moms Retreat.
- Drop codes HERE.
SMR BOUTIQUE
- Donate new/like-new (ONLY!) clothing, shoes/boots, jewelry, accessories, and SUB Project items (SUB Project items MUST be new and with tags on). See donation guidelines and drop off locations.
- Print receipt for donated merchandise.
SUB PROJECT
- Our hope is to offer every attendee a new SUB set (socks, undies, & bra) as part of the SMR Boutique.
- Invite your friends and church groups to host a collection! Learn more and see promo tools & video.
- Print receipt for donated merchandise.
Promo Tools
Volunteer
VOLUNTEER WITH US
- See volunteer guidelines and area descriptions.
- Register by May 20, and a team member will follow up with you.
CAR CARE VOLUNTEERS
HAIR STYLIST VOLUNTEERS
- Licensed hair stylists are invited to volunteer with the SMR Salon & Spa on Friday, anytime between 1-6:30. Email kostrem@mnaog.org with interest, availability, and for coupon code.
MASSAGE THERAPIST VOLUNTEERS
- Licensed Massage Therapists are invited to volunteer with the SMR Spa on Friday, or join the event as an exhibitor. Email info@mnbtg.org with interest and for coupon code.
2026 Featured Guests
Brooke Maxwell - Speaker
Brooke Maxwell is an ordained pastor, teacher, writer, and mother of three. Through her personal story of pain and loss, she considers it a privilege to share with others the powerful love of God, which can overcome any struggle. She regularly preaches and leads groups for women and teenagers. She and her husband served as youth pastors (and Brooke as women’s ministry pastor) at Homestead Community Church in Farmington from 2015-2025 and recently stepped into new roles at River of Life Church in Cold Spring.
Follow @brookedmaxwell on social media.
Kevin Ramsby - Speaker
With more than 30 years of leadership experience in diverse and multicultural settings, Kevin is a leading voice in the field of forgiveness, overcoming trauma, and reconciliation. His message is truly inspiring, born from his experience of surviving a home invasion while pastoring in Detroit’s inner city, where he was stabbed 37 times.
Kevin authored the book, A Fight To Forgive: How To Turn Man’s Wrongs & Your Hurts Into His Greater Purposes, and in 2023 launched a non-profit organization called Fight To Forgive. Through the recent launch of The Forgiveness Experience Masterclass & Seminars, Kevin is currently impacting up to 20,000 people every month through various ministry expressions and resources. From inmates on Death Row to leaders to CEO’s, Kevin’s message is reaching and healing people from all walks of life.
Learn more at FightToForgive.com.
2025 Workshops
2026 Workshops to be Listed in Spring of 2026
Unlocking Forgiveness - A BTG Podcast - LIVE Recording with Mykelti Blum and Micah MacDonald
Forgiveness can be one of the hardest things to do. We might struggle to forgive others, ourselves, or to ask someone else for forgiveness when we’ve wronged. Join this LIVE Podcast conversation with Mykelti and Micah as they discuss how the power of forgiveness can change your life through discussing Biblical truths and personal stories.
Mykelti Blum is a mom of two boys, wife, writer, speaker, podcast host of the Bridging the Gap Podcast, and the author of Braving Every Season and her upcoming new release, The Hidden Warriors of the Bible. Mykelti loves connecting with others and knows the power of vulnerability. She is an open book willing to discuss anything, so she’ll be the one to go first in sharing so that others feel less alone in their journey. Her passion is encouraging women to pursue their goals and dreams, and to live in their purpose.
Learn more at heartofthebrave.com, or follow @mykelti_blum.
Micah and his wife, Steph, travel all over the world preaching the Gospel and equipping the church. They reside in MN with their two children. They love to see God encounter people everywhere they go.
Follow @pastormicahmac on social media.
Panel: Single Mom Support Squad
Panelists with different professional and personal backgrounds will share “Single Mom Snippets” of lessons learned and field questions. Bring your tough questions and join us for a fun and interactive session.
In addition to Child of God, Kristine Stensland (panel moderator) has many titles including wife, ex-wife, mom, stepmom, daughter, ministry leader, community leader, CEO, and friend. She is excited to have some of her friends join her to authentic conversations about navigating life as a single mom.
Angie Ellsworth, MS, LSW, LSC, is the owner of Timeout Behavior Coaching, LLC, where she and her team train and coach parents and teachers in research-based positive behavior strategies to create a more calm and respectful environment and build healthier relationships. As a wife, parent of three, and more than 20 prior years experience as a school social worker, counselor, and behavior coach, it is a pleasure and an honor for her to now be providing in-home parent coaching to support families in more meaningful and transformational ways. Having witnessed amazing growth in others, Angie is looking forward to sharing her expertise with you.
Lisa Smith is the proud mother to 2 bio daughters, ages 22 and 25 and a bonus mom to a stepdaughter and stepson, ages 14 and 17. After ending an emotionally and verbally abusive marriage of almost 15 years, Lisa was a single mom for 3 years before remarrying in 2013. She and her husband Troy have been leading the stepfamily/blended family ministry at Calvary Bible Church in Neenah, WI since 2015 and serve as marriage mentors to other blended family couples (dating, engaged and married). Lisa’s day job for the last 25+ years has been working full time as an organizational consultant and leadership coach.
Dr. Lori Romberg McGregor is an OB/GYN physician in Dallas, Texas. She’s been in practice for 20 years and is president of Women’s Health Alliance. She was a single mom to her twins for seven years until she married Kirk in 2012. They have now been married for 13 years and have a blended family. Lori‘s kids are now 25 and Kirk‘s kids are 17 and 18. They have led the Blended Family ministry at Watermark Community Church in Dallas since 2018 and are expanding to also reach the single parent family ministry. Kirk and Lori have served as affiliate staff with FamilyLife Blended since 2022. They work closely with therapist and author Ron Deal, nationwide expert on blended families.
Let's Craft, Connect, and Study God's Word - Jennifer Thelen
We will be breaking into small groups and learning how to study Gods word. As single moms one of our many talents is multi-tasking. So we will also take some time to connect with those at our table all while tapping into our creative side with a little adult coloring.
Jennifer Thelen is a single mother of two beautiful adult daughters, ages 22 and 25. She has been blessed many times over as an attendee at the single mom retreat and considers it a privilege to be back again this year as a speaker and the host of crafting on Friday.
Starting Fresh: The Journey of Dating - Faith Fitzgerald-Michaelson
Join us for an empowering and insightful workshop designed specifically for single mommas navigating the journey of dating. This event will offer practical advice, spiritual guidance, and uplifting encouragement as we explore how to approach dating with faith, wisdom, and healthy boundaries. Our speaker, Faith Fitzgerald-Michaelson, will share personal experiences, biblical truths, and key strategies to help you build a fulfilling relationship that honors God. Whether you’re healing from a recent life transition or ready to step into a new chapter of your life, this workshop is for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow in faith, connect with others, and gain the tools you need for dating with purpose and confidence!
Faith Fitzgerald-Michaelson is passionate about encouraging women to find careers that utilize their God-given gifts, talents, and interests and also helping them navigate the dating journey after going through a life transition or difficult break up.
For a few years Faith was a single Mom and remarried 13 years ago; her blended family includes three adult children ranging from age 27-32 and two granddaughters ages 4 and 2, with baby #3 on the way. She has been an active volunteer and advisor for nine years for BTG and Single Moms Retreat.
She has over 20 years of experience in Executive Recruiting, Talent Acquisition Management, and Career Development, working in large corporations and recruiting firms, providing search services within a broad range of specialized industries. Faith is currently an Executive Recruiter at U.S. Bank Corporation, and she has her BSBA in Management.
Children and Mental Health: Recognizing Symptoms of a Problem, and How to Help - Amber Cleveland
Mental illness in children can be hard for parents to notice. As a result, many children who could be helped by treatment don’t get the help they need. Learn the warning signs of mental illness in children and how you can help your child.
Amber is a graduate of Central Bible College with a degree in Counseling. She is ordained with the Assemblies of God and a mom of three girls who have Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. She has been a Mental Health Children’s Case Manager for over five years and currently serves as Kids Pastor at Eden Prairie Assembly of God, as well as the Pastor’s wife. She has been in NextGen ministry over 16 years.
Women's Personal Defense - Scott Lobash
Have the skills to avoid conflicts whenever possible, and some tools ro defend yourself if you have to. Gain the confidence you need to protect yourself and the people you care about.
Scott is a married dad of three kids born and raised in MN. He spent 26 years as a martial arts instructor and is passionate about helping people protect themselves.
Meal Prep Like a Pro: Save Time, Save Money, Stay Sane! - Amanda Jaeger
This session will walk you through the basics of meal planning, prep, and freezer meals. I will show you easy practices you can implement today to get meals on the table in minutes, save a ton on groceries, eat healthier, and save you some tears!
Amanda Jaeger is the Founder of Single Parents Resources & Support. She has led a single moms ministry for over a decade. Having been a single mom herself, she has become passionate about teaching biblical truths and practical how-tos.
Heart Care Check-In: Spiritually-Emotionally-Physically - Teresa Edwards
Heart Care Check in is a breakout session designed to help individuals reflect on the condition of their hearts through a biblical lens. Using the metaphor of vehicle maintenance, it guides participants in assessing areas like mindset, direction, spiritual walk, and emotional balance. Vroom vroom—start your heart engine, check your warning lights, and get aligned with God for a spiritually healthy, purpose-driven life!
Teresa is a joyful, faith-filled woman after God’s heart, known for being bold with love and boundless creativity. She’s married to the love of her life, a proud mom to three amazing adult children, and a grateful mother-in-law to one incredible son-in-law. Recently promoted to “Grammy,” she’s over the moon about her two precious granddaughters who’ve filled her world with pink and sparkle. Family is the heartbeat of her life, and she thrives on creating meaningful traditions and lasting memories through travel, celebrations, and cozy everyday moments. With a passion for uplifting women, planning events, and embracing life with gratitude, Teresa lives joyfully—rooted in faith and surrounded by love.
Pray Like Jesus Prayed - Kristin Peterson
Many are familiar with what is commonly called The Lord’s Prayer. In this session we will look at how Jesus prayed in Luke 11:1-4. We will learn how to pattern our prayers in similar fashion and how to pray God’s promises over our children.
Kristin Peterson has been involved in ministry and church leadership for over 25 years. She’s a featured writer and speaker for the Women’s and Care/Freedom Ministries for River Valley Church. Her teaching style is best described as genuine, passionate and faith-filled, and she loves to pour what God has given her into others.
Car Care + Q&A - Corey Book
Join us Saturday morning for a practical training and Q&A opportunity as we look at tires and under the hood of a vehicle.
Corey Book is a volunteer with the SMR Car Care team and is looking forward to returning as the Car Care Workshop facilitator again this year.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Submit a question HERE!
Friday Schedule
- 1:00 pm – Registration + Car Care Check-in (Gym)
- 1:00-5:30 pm – Free Time:
- SMR Boutique, Spa (Dining Hall, Lower Level)
- Exhibitors, Kids Books, Resource Table (Dining Hall)
- Professional Haircuts, Craft, Geneva Java Open (Lakeview Center, Lower Level)
- Indoor Pool & Outdoor Hot Tub (Legacy Lodge)
- Camp Store (Main Office)
- 3:00-4:30 pm – Pickleball (equipment provided; or bring your own)
- 5:30 pm – Dinner, Exhibitors, Kids Books, Resource Table (Dining Hall)
- 5:30 pm – Registration Moves to Worship Center
- 6:30 pm – Worship Center Doors + Exhibitors Open
- 7:00 pm – Main Session ONE (Worship Center)
- 9:00 pm – Baptisms
- 9:30 pm-12:00 am – After Party:
- Bingo & Pizza (9:30-10:15 pm; Dining Hall)
- Bonfires (By Lake and Kingsriter Center)
- Exhibitor Shopping (Dining Hall)
- Geneva Java Open (9:30-11:30 pm; Lakeview Center, Lower Level)
- Indoor Pool / Outdoor Hot Tub (Legacy Lodge)
- Outdoor Entertainment (9:30-11:00 pm; Worship Center Lawn; bring your own blanket or lawn chair)
- Puzzles and Bring-Your-Own Craft (Legacy Lodge Lobby)
- SMR Boutique (Dining Hall, Lower Level)
- Spa (Dining Hall, Lower Level)
- Craft (Fireside Room)
Saturday Schedule
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- 7:00 am
- 1 Mile Walk or 5K Fun Run + Devotional (By Lakeview Center; First 100 to Arrive Receive a Runner’s Bib Number)
- Breakfast (until 8:30 am; Dining Hall)
- Geneva Java Open (Lakeview Center, Lower Level)
- Lakeside Bonfire Devotional (By Lake)
- SMR Boutique (Dining Hall, Lower Level)
- Exhibitors, Kids Books, and Resource Table (Dining Hall)
- 8:00-11:00 am – Saturday Registration (Worship Center)
- 8:15 am – Car Care Workshop (Dining Hall Parking Lot)
- 8:30 am – Worship Center Doors + Exhibitors Open
- 9:00 am – Main Session TWO (Worship Center)
- 10:30 am – Break, Checkout of Rooms, and Geneva Java Open (Lakeview Center, Lower Level)
- 11:00 am – Workshops ONE
- 12:00 pm
- Lunch (Dining Hall)
- Exhibitors, Kids Books, Resource Table (Dining Hall)
- 12:30-1:30 pm – SMR Boutique Open (Dining Hall, Lower Level)
- 1:30 pm – Workshops TWO
- 2:30 pm – Main Session THREE
- 4:30 pm – Car Pickup
- 7:00 am
Activities
After-Party
Don’t miss the After-Party with Bingo, bonfires, pizza, Diva Boutique shopping, the Spa, and more!
Car Care
The Car Care team will be offering free safety inspections, along with fluid and bulb checks. The team is planning to service the first 120 vehicles that check in by 6:00 pm on the Friday of the Retreat.
- Each driver must provide proof of insurance in her own name upon checking in her car.
- Please take all necessities out of your vehicle when dropping it off.
- You will be sent a text message or receive a phone call when your vehicle checkup is completed.
- PLEASE NOTE: We cannot guarantee that we will get to everyone in the time that is allotted.
GET INVOLVED:
Geneva Java
Specialty coffees, smoothies, & more will be available for sale at the Geneva Java!
Indoor Pool / Outdoor Hot Tub
Bring your swimsuit & a pool towel to enjoy the NEW indoor pool and outdoor hot tub at Lake Geneva Christian Center!
Salon & Spa - Open Friday Only
The SMR Salon is a first-come, first serve area with complimentary haircuts by licensed hair stylists. Located in the Lakeview Center, lower level. Sinks are not accessible to stylists, so guests must come with washed hair, please.
The SMR Spa–offered by The Waters Church and volunteers–includes free nail painting, foot soaks, hand massages, chair massages by licensed massage therapists, parrafin wax hand dip, and more! We know you’re going to love this area!
SMR Boutique
The SMR Boutique is an area of the retreat with thousands of articles of new and like-new clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories. Each attendee will have the opportunity to shop for free and take home a select number of items, as well as to stop by the SUB (socks, undies, and bras) Shop for a free set of undergarments.
1 Mile Walk or 5K Run
Join us bright and early on Saturday to hear a morning devotional and exercise with new friends! The first 100 to arrive receive a runner’s bib number.
Connect
- Follow @MNBTG on FB and IG
- Join the Single Moms Facebook Group
Archives & Resources
Thank You, 2025 Sponsors
Email us to learn about sponsorship opportunities.
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