FAQs
General conference information
How can I purchase digital access to Evolving Faith 2023?
You can purchase a digital access ticket to the 2023 space—which includes the live October conference—by heading to the digital access and tickets page. For more information about the digital access ticket, please refer to the “Digital access ticket” section below.
Why do you charge what you charge for the conference?
In short: It costs a lot of money to put the thing on. We wish to pay our speakers and artists fairly. We also want to pay our staff well; candidly, in years past, we have overworked and underpaid our team, something that was unjust, unsustainable, and not in keeping with our values.
Are there scholarships available for Evolving Faith 2023?
Yes! As part of Evolving Faith’s effort to be as inclusive as possible, we’re offering both partial and full scholarships this year. Scholarship applications are open for digital access tickets. We’ll invite you to tell us a little bit about yourself, and you can let us know what, if anything, you can afford to pay. We’ll grant scholarships on a rolling basis.
How long will the conference recordings be available?
The conference recordings will be available to view on demand until January 1, 2024.
Are refunds available?
All refund requests must be submitted within 72 hours from the time of purchase. Otherwise, all sales are final. However, tickets are transferable by contacting help@evolvingfaith.com before October 7, 2023.
What’s the schedule of the conference going to be like?
We’ll be kicking off Friday evening at 6:30 p.m. and going all day on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can view our tentative schedule here.
Digital access ticket
What is included in the 2023 digital access ticket?
The digital access ticket is your ticket to the virtual conference and unlocks everything happening in the online community throughout the year: live events, book clubs, author Q&As, and the private 2023 space. It also includes everything related to the conference gathering in October, like the live streams, conference guide, on-demand videos (available to view until January 1, 2024), post-conference programming, and conference guidebook.
What isn’t included in the 2023 digital access ticket?
Digital access is the heart of Evolving Faith 2023, and the conference production in Minneapolis is all about those folks joining online from every corner of the globe. We provide digital access to all in-person guests because it’s the hub for everything 2023. However, the digital access ticket does not include the ticket to the in-person event in Minneapolis, which would need to be purchased as an upgrade.
Do I have to sign up for the community?
The digital access ticket requires an account in the Evolving Faith community. Creating an account is free.
What is the difference between the free Evolving Faith community and the 2023 digital access ticket?
The 2023 digital access ticket is nested within the Evolving Faith community on Mighty Networks. The community is a platform for discussion, small groups, events, and connection, and the digital access ticket allows access to the private conference space and 2023 programming.
Can I share my 2023 digital access with others?
We think what’s happening is worth sharing, too, and it takes a lot of resources, time, and human care to make Evolving Faith so special. Sharing passwords or accounts is expressly prohibited, and it affects the entire community: our small groups, public spaces, and live events require trust, honesty, and respect. Encourage your friends to sign up for digital access by sharing a link to our 2023 Digital Access page to help them create an account and join the event.
But what if I’m a pastor or part of a church?
We know you’re up to some good work, which is why there are scholarships available for faith leaders, those with marginalized identities, and individuals with high financial need. If you’d like to attend the conference with a group from your church, check out our group page for more information.
How do I navigate the online space?
We’ve put together a helpful walkthrough video that explores the Evolving Faith community.
What if I lose my password or have other technical issues?
Look through our Community FAQs, which provide additional contact and support information.
Are there content or behavior guidelines?
Yes, these expectations are laid out in our Community Guidelines.
Streaming
How do I watch the 2023 annual conference?
The annual conference will be streamed within the Evolving Faith community. Access your conference guide, event details, and streaming pages from the Evolving Faith 2023 space. The conference recordings will be available to view on demand until January 1, 2024.
What if I have slow or unreliable Wi-Fi?
The best viewing experience will require at least 5 Mbps download speeds on your Wi-Fi. You can test your internet speed through Google. If you have difficulties during the conference, remember that you will have access through January 1, 2024.
Can I view the conference stream on a TV or projector?
Yes, you can watch the conference by casting to an Android TV, using AirPlay on Apple devices, or by casting with an Amazon Fire Stick. Alternatively, you can connect your computer to your TV using the appropriate cable. If you encounter difficulties, consult your device or software documentation, as Evolving Faith cannot provide support for third-party devices or platforms.
Who can I contact with technological questions during the event?
If you encounter a technological issue, please try addressing it on your own at first through adjusting relevant device settings, consulting the Mighty Networks Help pages, updating or switching your browser, or resetting your router. If you continue to encounter streaming or community issues, your conference guide will include contact info for the support team.
Digital access upgrades
Are digital access scholarships eligible for upgrade?
No. If you received a scholarship and would like to attend in-person, you can request it to be canceled in order to purchase an in-person ticket.
Are group tickets eligible for upgrade?
Yes, as long as you have met the minimum number of digital access registrants. Please contact help@evolvingfaith.com to have your eligibility confirmed and to begin the process.
Can I upgrade digital access to include an in-person ticket?
Yes. Head over to the upgrade page to get started.
How does the upgrade process work for individuals?
Visit the upgrade page and enter the email address linked to your community account when prompted. We’ll check your eligibility and email you a unique, single-use link that unlocks the upgrade button on the page.
I would like to upgrade my ticket and someone else’s. How do I do that?
You must complete each upgrade separately.
Can individual members of a group upgrade?
Yes, individual group members can upgrade for $109.00 by heading over to the upgrade page.
In-person tickets
Can I buy more than one ticket?
Yes, you can purchase up to 30 tickets at once. Each ticket must be registered to an individual, and you will need to submit basic information when purchasing.
What forms of payment do you accept for in-person ticket purchases?
Our payment processing is provided by Eventbrite, and we accept several international payment types and currencies in addition to credit and debit cards. Please consult the supported payment types if you have further questions.
Are installment plans available?
PayPal in 4 is accepted from guests in the U.S., U.K., and Australia, and PayPal in 3 is accepted from Canadian guests. Evolving Faith does not administer any installment plan.
What do I need to buy a ticket?
You will need a valid form of payment and some basic information on each ticket registrant. This includes full name, email address, disability accommodations, and some demographic information.
How do I acquire my 2023 digital access?
Once you have purchased your ticket, we’ll process your information and send a welcome email to each ticket registrant within 48 hours.
Does Evolving Faith provide roommate-matching services or assist with accommodations?
All guests are responsible for travel and lodging. Evolving Faith does not facilitate roommate-matching, but we encourage you to connect with others in the Evolving Faith community if you’re interested in sharing costs.
What if my flight gets canceled or delayed?
We’ve all been there! Unfortunately, we cannot provide refunds or reimbursements due to delayed or canceled travel plans.
Can I reserve seating?
All tickets are general admission, and there is no assigned or reserved seating.
Are group discounts available?
Yes! Visit our group page for more information.
Can I bring my kids?
Minors between the ages of 13-18 are permitted to attend Evolving Faith but must be accompanied by a legal parent or guardian at all times and require tickets. Infants up to 6 months are welcome (no ticket required). However, childcare is not provided. Please note that sessions often include themes and language that may not be suitable for all ages.
Groups
Are group tickets available?
Yes! You can find group tickets here for purchase. Group rates are available for groups with 5-10 members and groups with 11+ members.
Can I host a viewing party?
We encourage you to watch the 2023 conference with other ticket holders. Because the conference requires individual participation, each person will need their own conference ticket to attend. Group tickets are available (refer to the previous question).
Participation
Where can I participate in conversation and discussion during the conference?
The Evolving Faith Community includes affinity groups, a personalized activity feed, topics, direct messaging, and more. Be sure to follow and tag the 2023 Conference topic.
Am I allowed to take photos or video inside the venue during the in-person event?
Photos are welcome! We ask that you do not use flash photography during the in-person event to not be disruptive to those around you and on stage. Be sure to include the hashtag #EvolvingFaith2023 if you’re posting on social media!
Please refrain from taking any videos during the event.
Will there be a separate 2023 Evolving Faith Facebook group?
Facebook groups have been discontinued in order to provide a streamlined experience in the Community.
Will there be a separate 2023 Evolving Faith group?
The Community will include a digital space reserved for 2023 ticket holders.
Whom can I ask for support during the conference?
The gathering might stir up complicated feelings. The Spiritual Care Team, led by Kenji Kuramitsu, will provide a range of offerings, including short, one-on-one conversation sessions. Note: This is not therapy, this is not spiritual direction, and this is not counseling; rather, it is an opportunity to sit for a few minutes and talk via Zoom with a chaplain who is trained to listen well. Details will be included in your conference guide.
Travel
What airport should I fly into?
If you are traveling to the conference by plane, we recommend flying into Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), which is about 15 minutes away from the Minneapolis Convention Center.
Are there any discount codes I can use for air travel?
Yes! If you choose to fly with Delta Air Lines, you may be eligible for up to a 10% discount (depending on your choice of flight and fare) by entering code NY2B4 or clicking here to book your flight. This offer is valid for travel anytime between October 6, 2023 through October 19, 2023 within the United States and Canada.
You may also call Delta Meeting Network® at 1-800-328-1111 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Eastern, and refer to Meeting Event Code NY2B4.
Where should I stay?
If you plan to stay at a hotel or vacation rental (such as Airbnb), we highly recommend you make reservations as soon as possible, as October is a busy time in downtown Minneapolis for business/organization events.
The following hotels have kindly offered the Evolving Faith Community courtesy room rates (tax not included) with a mix of a single king, and/or two-bed (queen or double) standard rooms. Each hotel has offered a limited number of rooms, its own specific guidelines around reservations, cancellations, and hotel fees, and you are responsible for noting them. All hotels are located less than one mile (within a 10- to 15-minute walking distance) of the venue. Please keep in mind if you have a car, hotels may charge around $25+ per night for parking.
Some hotels may offer buffer days in case you’d like to extend your stay in Minneapolis. You are still able to choose which dates to book.
Disclaimer: Evolving Faith is not responsible in any way for your stay/experience at any hotel.
Hyatt Regency: 1300 Nicollet Mall
Hilton Minneapolis: 1001 S. Marquette Ave.
Hilton Garden Inn: 1101 4th Ave. South
The Marquette Hotel: 710 S. Marquette Ave.
DoubleTree Suites: 1101 Lasalle Ave
How can I get around once I’m in Minneapolis?
We recommend checking out the following resources on transportation, parking, and getting around in general to help you plan your trip:
MSP - Light Rail Transit: How to get to or from Minneapolis International Airport and downtown Minneapolis (and other destinations)
Minneapolis.org - Plan Your Trip: Maps, transportation, hotels, accessibility guide, and recommendations for your time in Minneapolis
Minneapolis.org - Maps & Transportation: Great overview of transportation options, which include light rail, buses, ride shares, car shares, and bike rentals
Minneapolis.org - Light Rail & Bus Information: What you need to know about taking public transportation in Minneapolis (Note: For downtown buses, look for buses marked “Free Ride” and pay no fare when boarding along Nicollet Mall. You’ll have an easy ride between the Convention Center and the METRO Blue and Green lines on 5th Street.)
Minneapolis Skyway System: Interlinked collection of enclosed pedestrian footbridges that connect buildings in 80 full city blocks over 9.5 miles of downtown. Many hotels are connected to the Skyway with direct access to the venue.
Minneapolis Convention Center - Public Event Parking Options: Information on partner parking ramps located within two blocks of the venue
If you choose to rent a car, parking at the venue varies from $10 to $15 per day. Also, please keep in mind that many hotels may charge around $25+ per night for parking.
Note: The hotels at which we will be offering courtesy blocks are all within walking distance of the venue.
What are my options for meals, snacks, etc.?
Inside the venue, there will be the following concession stands and coffee vendors open:
Friday, October 13
Dunn Brothers Coffee Shop: 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Craft Bar and Lounge: 12:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 14
Dunn Brothers: 7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Craft Bar and Lounge: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Market in Lobby B: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
There are also a number of great options within reasonable distance of the venue. We recommend visiting minneapolis.org/food-drink to check out suggested restaurants, coffee shops, food trucks, and more.
No outside food or drink is permitted at the venue, unless you have specific dietary needs. Please bring a reusable water bottle as there are water filling stations throughout the venue. We will not be providing lunch on Saturday.
Accessibility
What will accessibility look like at the conference venue?
Accessible design was a key factor in our venue selection for this year’s conference. The following information comes from the Minneapolis Convention Center’s website:
Parking: Accessible parking is available at both the 3rd Ave. Parking Ramp and the Plaza Parking Ramp. Curbside drop-off locations are also available along the front of the building on 2nd Ave.
Bathrooms: All bathrooms include accessible stalls. There are gender-neutral bathrooms located on Level Two, Level One, and the Lower Level.
Auditorium Seating: The Auditorium and Auditorium Rooms offer seating areas for people using wheelchairs. There are also options for size-inclusive seating. Please email us at help@evolvingfaith.com to arrange.
Will there be mobility assistance devices for rent?
While you are more than welcome to bring your own mobility assistance devices, there will be a limited number of wheelchairs and scooters available for rent through the venue on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wheelchairs are $20/day and mobility scooters are $50/day; rentals are available on Level One, near the front entrance, at the MCC Visitors Information Center.
Will there be closed captioning for the virtual conference?
Yes. Closed captioning will be provided for the virtual conference. Additionally, transcripts will be made available four to six weeks after the conference.
How do I enable captions?
Captioning can be enabled from the video player during the live stream.
Are there breaks during the conference?
We know that the amount of content can be overwhelming, so we’ve scheduled breaks throughout the conference. Also remember that, though the gathering is a live event, you are welcome to pause the stream during any session and return when you’re ready.
How long will the conference be available for viewing after the event?
The conference area, transcripts, and recorded sessions will be available until January 1, 2024.
Will there be a caregivers’ space at the venue?
Yes, there are two designated lactation lounges available at the venue on Level 2, (near room 202B and the hall of the skywalk toward Seasons Hotel), that may be used for feeding and pumping. However, please keep in mind that there will be other events in the building, so we will be sharing these rooms. Therefore, we will not be able to provide a streaming monitor of the conference.
There are changing tables available in all women’s, men’s, and family restrooms.
Will there be American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation?
Yes. ASL interpretation will be available for both the in-person event and virtual event.
What if there is a barrier to participation during the event?
Your conference guide will include contact information for our disability care team, who will be able to respond to your concerns in real time.
Evolving Faith and COVID-19
The world has changed quite a bit since we last gathered in person, and we are working to curate a space where all who want to attend the 2023 Evolving Faith conference can do so. That means we are employing some COVID-19 precautions and are inviting you to do the same as an act of community and care for one another.
What precautions will Evolving Faith be putting in place in regard to COVID-19?
There are two ways to attend Evolving Faith: in person in Minneapolis and virtually within Evolving Faith’s online community. We know that everyone has different needs, commitments, and capacities, so please choose the option that is best for you.
At the in-person conference in Minneapolis, we will be following the CDC guidelines for COVID-19 at the time of the event. As an act of community care, we encourage in-person attendees to wear masks indoors in order to help minimize our collective exposure.
We will also provide complimentary N95/KN95/KF94-grade masks at registration and hand sanitizer is also available throughout the venue. While masking during our time together is encouraged, we are also providing a mask-required room at the venue (see below for details). We wanted to make sure that those who are immunocompromised or who prefer a mask-required experience have a space at our 2023 conference.
Our commitment to COVID safety means that we intentionally partnered with an incredible venue that has its own safety systems in place. The Minneapolis Convention Center states on its website that it is “an accredited GBAC STAR facility and has implemented the most stringent protocols for cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention.” Additionally, “the majority of all meeting rooms are equipped with Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization which works by safely introducing ions into the airflow, combining with particles in the air such as viruses, bacteria, odors, and other airborne particles, and then eliminating or neutralizing them.”
We are doing what we can to provide a COVID-conscious conference, but please note there may be other events at the venue not affiliated with Evolving Faith that may have different health and safety protocols in place.
What precautions can I take?
If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, have tested positive (even if you are asymptomatic), or have been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 within five days of the conference, we kindly ask that you stay home and join us virtually. If you need help accessing the conference virtually, please contact help@evolvingfaith.com for assistance.
Will there be a space for those who are immunocompromised (or who want to be around others who are masked) to be able to safely participate?
Yes! We will have a dedicated mask-required room for those who are immunocompromised or wish to be in a mask-required area. This spacious room features stadium seating with a large monitor for watching and participating in the conference together. No eating or drinking will be allowed in this room to support the needs of those who choose to be in this space.
What if I get sick with COVID or I have a known positive exposure?
If you get sick or are exposed to COVID during the conference, take care of yourself and others by isolating, resting, and joining us online. Remember that your in-person ticket gives you access to the live stream as well as the recordings so you won’t miss anything. If you need help accessing the conference virtually, you can contact help@evolvingfaith.com.
Ticket and registration issues
Do I need to join the Community before registering?
Yes, you must join the Community prior to purchasing access.
How do I purchase a ticket if I am already a Community member?
We’ll walk you through everything on the Get Digital Access page.
Why aren’t tickets available in the mobile app?
Because app stores often garnish in-app purchases (many times as high as 30%), tickets must be purchased through our Join the Conference page.
Do I need to purchase on my computer like last year?
No, you can purchase on your mobile devices! We’ve made significant improvements to the sign up process.
I’m already a Community member. Why can’t I find tickets to purchase?
Tickets aren’t available for purchase if you are using the mobile app. Head over to the Get Digital Access page and we’ll get you squared away.
I’m already a Community member. Why did I get an error message when I used a registration link? What if I’m stuck in a “loop?”
If you receive an error message and are redirected back to your feed, you likely followed a ticket link for registering as a new Community member. While on a computer, head over to the Gatherings page to register as an existing Community member. If you received a discounted ticket, scholarship, or VIP pass and are encountering this issue, email help@evolvingfaith.com.
Troubleshooting
What if I lose my Community login information?
Once you enter your email address, you can use the “Forgot my password” link on the sign-in page.
How can I manage my payment information?
The “Your purchases” menu allows you to manage your payment information and purchases. Read about managing payments information from our partner, Mighty Networks.
What if I have trouble accessing the Community website?
Make sure that you’re trying to access the website with one of the supported web browsers and also double-check that your browser is up to date.
What if I have other technical issues with the Community?
Mighty Networks handles tech support. Their help guides cover many issues, and you can submit a help request online.