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Conference Info
The CREDO Experience || Conference Curriculum || Frequently Asked Questions
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CREDO is a benefit of the Church Pension Fund for clergy (currently serving or retired) who are active participants in the Fund or who are receiving a pension.
CREDO conference facts:
- CREDO has grown from one conference in 1997 to 26 in 2007.
- Over 3,000 clergy have attended a CREDO conference, as well as 86 bishops.
- The CREDO faculty is made up of 116 clergy and laity from across the country, with each team conducting two conferences a year.
- CREDO II was introduced in 2006, with a goal of eligible clergy attending a conference every five to seven years, after the completion of a CREDO I conference.
- CREDO for clergy for whom Spanish is their first language was introduced in 2006.
- CREDO conferences are tailored to specific age categories (i.e., 39 and under, 40 to 54, 55 and over)
- CREDO conferences are offered for active clergy and for retired clergy (those receiving a pension) in the Church Pension Fund
What is the invitation process? Participation in a CREDO conference is by invitation only. Using age as a criterion, invitations are sent to randomly selected members from the Church Pension Fund’s clergy database. Invitees can be deferred to the following year, but participation is always on a first-come, first-served basis.
Who may attend a CREDO conference?
Clergy invited to CREDO are chosen randomly within specific age categories from the Pension Fund’s database. You are invited to attend a conference that is tailored to your specific needs at this stage in your life.
How do I apply?
When you receive your invitation, fill out the enclosed response form and send it in by the date listed on the response form.
Is enrollment limited?
Yes, space is limited to 32 participants per conference. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis.
How much does it cost to attend?
There is a $500 fee to attend. If this creates a hardship, scholarship information can be obtained by contacting the CREDO office. This fee covers ALL travel expenses, including airfare, lodging, meals, and other direct conference costs.
When is my participant fee due?
When you receive your confirmation (the date will be listed on the response form), invoice information will be included. Your fee is due upon receipt of this invoice.
What is your refund policy?
Because of financial and time commitments, it is difficult to fill vacated slots without substantial lead-time. Your fee will be refunded in full if you cancel at least 60 days prior to the beginning of the conference. If you cancel after the 60-day deadline, there is no refund.
What other expenses might I expect?
There is one night out during the conference. You may want to bring a small amount of spending money for gifts or souvenirs. Massage therapists are also available on-site for therapeutic massages; costs range between $55 and $70 (cash or check only). You may also wish to leave a small gratuity for the conference center staff (if accepted).
Can my spouse or partner attend with me?
No, CREDO conferences are a benefit for active members of the Church Pension Fund only. We provide conference materials to facilitate involvement with your spouse or partner before, during, and after the conference. If your spouse or partner is an active member of the Church Pension Fund and also receives an invitation, we ask that you attend separate conferences in order to get the maximum benefit from your CREDO experience.
Do I have to stay all eight days of the conference?
Yes, in order to create community and to have the best experience possible, we ask that you stay for the entire eight days and participate fully in all sessions. If you wish to sightsee or visit family or friends, we ask that you do so before or after the conference.
Can I go to a conference near my home?
No, we have found that it is beneficial for participants to attend a conference away from their home and/or work location. This allows you to fully engage in the process with a minimum of outside distractions.
Is there any pre-conference work that I will have to do?
Yes, approximately 90 days prior to your conference, you will receive materials that will be due six weeks prior to the conference, as well as materials that you will complete and bring with you. Some of the work will be done via the Internet and some is paper-based. Individuals vary, but this work should take between 10 to 20 working hours to complete. All work must be completed in order to attend a conference. Detailed travel information will also be sent to you.
Does CREDO sell or share any information I give them?
No, all information given to CREDO is kept strictly confidential and is not given to any outside parties.
Do I need Internet or e-mail access to participate in a CREDO conference?
Though the majority of CREDO’s pre-conference work and communications are done using e-mail, provisions are made for those who do not have access to this technology. Information may be obtained by contacting the CREDO office.
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