Gathering details and Registration

  • The Godly Play North American Gathering will take place on the campus of Vancouver School of Theology. Early Bird registration opens November 3, 2024.

    Registration Fees
    Early Bird Registration: $425 (USD)
    Regular Registration (after February 1): $475 (USD)
    Late Registration (after May 1): $525 (USD)

    Registration includes light breakfast each day, lunch on Thursday and Friday, and dinner on Friday.

    Workshops and Sessions
    Are you interested in leading a workshop?

    Whether your workshop is designed for newcomers, those already familiar with Godly Play, or seasoned practitioners, we’d love to hear from you. We’re especially interested in workshops that align with and deepen the ‘Beloved Me, Beloved We’ initiative. However, we also welcome other relevant topics you may wish to share.

    Please submit a proposal detailing your area of interest and how you would approach it in the Godly Play style.

    Workshop spaces are limited, so be sure to submit your proposal soon.

    Volunteer Opportunities
    Interested in volunteering as a doorperson or storyteller at the Gathering? Please indicate this on your registration form!

  • Join us for our Scholar's Dinner at this year's conference, where you will have an opportunity to gather with scholars and practitioners to learn about recent research on Godly Play and the study of children’s spirituality. The evening will kick off at 5:00 PM with a poster session showcasing recent research. Following the session, enjoy dinner while engaging in thought-provoking conversation and networking with fellow thought leaders and peers. 

    As a highlight of the evening, we are thrilled to announce that the Rev. Dr. Cheryl Minor, the Director of the Center for the Theology of Childhood for the Godly Play Foundation, will give a keynote address over dessert. Those who register for this event will receive follow-up information about how to contribute to the evening’s discussions and activities.

    This intimate gathering provides the perfect opportunity to forge new collaborations or unwind with others who are passionate about finding and developing evidence-based practices for nourishing the spiritual lives of children. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night of scholarship and camaraderie—reserve your spot today!

    Registration Fee: $50

  • Godly Play Canada is excited to invite you to a Hybrid Godly Play Core Training in 2025! This engaging program will unfold over four Saturdays via Zoom, culminating in a full day of prayerful and action/reflection learning together in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia.

    We’d love for you to be a part of this transformative experience. And why not stay for the North American Godly Play Gathering afterward? It’s a wonderful opportunity to deepen your connections and share in the joy of Godly Play. We can't wait to see you there!

    Details and Registration Information here.

sponsorship opportunities

  • Feast Sponsor

    $2000
    On the evening of Friday, August 15th, participants will gather for a feast. This particular feast will honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Jerome Berryman.

  • Scholar's Dinner Sponsor

    $1000
    Our gathering will begin with an optional Scholar’s Dinner on Wednesday, August 13th. There will be poster sessions, research discussion groups, and keynote presentations from Rev. Sam Wells, PhD and Rev. Cheryl Minor, PhD.

  • Morning Coffee Sponsor

    $300
    Sponsoring morning coffee is an excellent way to get noticed by gathering participants. 2 opportunities to sponsor coffee breaks are available.

  • Partner

    $750

  • Contributor

    $450

  • Friend

    $150

Download our Sponsorship Packet to learn more about the event and sponsor benefits.

These sponsorships levels offer examples of options, but we will work with each sponsor to develop a package that works best for you. Contact Heather Ingersoll to come up with the perfect package for your organization heather@godlyplayfoundation.org.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

  • The Gathering begins at 9am Thursday, August 14, and we strongly encourage you to consider arrival on Wednesday.

    Air Travel
    Vancouver International Airport (YVR) - 30 mins drive, 50 mins on public transport from VST
    Bellingham Airport (BLI) - 1.75 hrs by train to Pacific Central Station
    Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) - 3.5 hrs by car to VST

    Rail Travel
    Pacific Central Station (Vancouver BC)

    Navigating Locally
    Guidance from UBC Vancouver Campus

  • Vancouver is a very popular summer destination, so booking early is advised.

    Carey Hall
    5 minute walk to VST
    222-260 CAD/night

    Hotel Accomodations at UBC
    West Coast Suites or
    Gage Signature Studios
    6 minute walk to VST
    220-380 CAD/night

    Triumf House
    15-20 minute walk to VST
    130-170 CAD/night

Policies

  • Godly Play encourages guests to consider public health guidance or advice from their medical providers on becoming fully vaccinated, receiving the booster vaccinations (if eligible) or being tested before attending the Conference. While masking will be optional, we will provide masks upon request at registration and throughout the Conference programming.

    Please do not attend the Conference if:

    1. You are currently experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

    2. You were exposed to COVID-19 in the 10 days prior to the Conference.

    3. You tested positive for COVID-19 in the 10 days prior to the Conference.

  • Cancellation Policies for Online and Onsite Foundation Events