In the city of bridges, ideas meet and multiply. Communicators from across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are invited to gather for a time of learning, collaboration, and connection. Designed by communicators for communicators, this time together is an investment in both professional growth and the relationships that strengthen our work. Through presentations, open conversation, and practical skill-sharing, participants will have the opportunity to sharpen their craft, share resources, and return home with new insights shaped by colleagues who understand the unique work of shaping and amplifying our synods’ voices.
Alongside the educational sessions, participants will have opportunities to experience a bit of Pittsburgh together—enjoying the city’s skyline, art, food, and conversation along the way. This gathering offers a welcoming space to step away from daily work, deepen professional skills, and reconnect with colleagues who share the calling of telling the church’s story.
$75 registration fee provides for meals and presenter honoraria.
Schedule
(Optional) Monday, July 27
Welcome Dinner: 5:30 PM
Ride the Duquesne Incline for the best view of Pittsburgh’s skyline, with dinner at nearby restaurant at the top.
Tuesday, July 28
Educational Sessions: 9 AM - 3:30 PM
Lutheran University Center (4515 Forbes Ave.)
Lunch Included
(Optional) Evening Excursion: 5 PM
Free Tour of the Maxo Vanka Murals
Dinner Included at a Local Brewery
Sponsored by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod. Bishop Melissa Stoller will join for the evening.
Wednesday, July 29
Educational Sessions: 9 AM - 12 PM
Lutheran University Center (4515 Forbes Ave.)
Recommended Hotels
Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh University Center
Website
Distance:
10 minute walk (0.4 mi) to Lutheran University Center
13 minute walk (0.6 mi) from 28X bus dropoff location
5 minute walk (0.2 mi) to 28X bus pickup location
Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh University Place
Website
Distance:
15 minute walk (0.7 mi) to Lutheran University Center
2 minute walk (0.1 mi) from 28X bus dropoff location
10 minute walk (0.4 mi) to 28X bus pickup location
AirBNBs in the Oakland area are also plentiful. For a landmark to judge distance to our venue, The Lutheran University Center is directly across the street from the Carnegie Art & History Museum.
Recommended Transportation
To/From Airport
Pittsburgh International Airport is about 35 minutes from the Oakland neighborhood, which is home base for our gathering. Ubers/Lyfts are available, but we recommend the bus. The 28X Airport Flyer bus takes you directly from the airport to Oakland for only $2.75, and runs frequently from early in the morning until late at night.
There is also a ticket vending machine located near Baggage Claim inside Door #2.
Around Oakland
Oakland is home to the University of Pittsburgh and, like most college campuses, is very walkable. Most will need no other transportation, just comfortable shoes.
If a 10-15 minute walk is outside your comfort zone or you just prefer not to walk that distance, especially with luggage, Ubers/Lyfts are readily available.