Register Here
 
 
Update for Attendees: Please let Lauren know if you have any dietary commitments by emailing lauren.wolcott@swpasynod.org.
 

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.

$60 registration fee

If cost would prevent you from attending, please reach out. We’re exploring ways to offset expenses, and some support may be available. Email lauren.wolcott@swpasynod.org to talk through what might be possible.

Questions?

Reach out the planning team:
Tim Anderson: tanderson@css-elca.org
Neal Fischer: neal@scsynod.com
Lauren Wolcott: lauren.wolcott@swpasynod.org

Staying a While? 
Lauren loves giving local recommendations, or explore this map.

 

Schedule

(Optional) Monday, July 27


Tuesday, July 28


Wednesday, July 29

 
 
 
 

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.

NOTE: There is a major construction project on the eastern edge of the city and it is not recommended to stay east of the Squirrel Hill Tunnel. Read more here >>

 

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.

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.

Parking

Check with your hotel about parking; as previously noted above, Oakland is easy to get around on foot. The Lutheran University Center has very few parking spots that will be reserved for presenters.

  • Street parking is often available but not guaranteed, and can be paid for at a kiosk or by using the Go Mobile PGH app.

  • Additional parking can be found at the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, located directly across the street from the Lutheran University Center at 4600 Forbes Ave. Parking rates can be found here.