FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who usually comes to this conference? 
The Center for Pastor Theologians (CPT) conference is a unique gathering of people from various vocational contexts. It is a conference for anyone who loves theology and loves the church. Historically, over 50% of those in attendance are full-time pastors. We also welcome many students, para-church ministry leaders, academic theologians, lay leaders, and lay theologians.  

What is your refund policy? 
Refunds will be approved as follows: 
- Before July 1 | 100% Refund 
- Before August 1 | 50% Refund 
- Before September 1 | 25% Refund 
- After September 1 | No Refund 

Can I transfer my registration to someone else? 
Yes. If you would like to transfer your registration free of charge, please email us.  

Will food be provided at the conference venue? 
Light refreshments, water, and coffee will be available at Calvary Memorial Church during the conference. No meals will be served at the conference venue.

Are there restaurants nearby? 
Yes. Calvary Memorial Church is located in the middle of historic downtown Oak Park. There are dozens of restaurant options within walking distance. See here for a list of restaurant options.  

Is parking available? 
There is limited free parking available at the conference venue in the east and west parking lots. Parking overflow is available at a public garage across the street from the conference venue for approximately $1/hour. 

Can I get there by public transit? 
Yes. Calvary Memorial Church is conveniently located near the Oak Park Ave stop and Harlem Ave stop on the Green Line of Chicago’s CTA ‘L’ train.   

What are some options available for lodging?

  • The Carleton of Oak Park - Walking distance from conference venue. Conference rate can be selected by calling and requesting the “CPT Conference” rate.

  • Comfort Inn O’Hare - An approximate 30-minute drive from conference venue and next to O’Hare International Airport.

  • Holiday Inn Express Chicago West - At the midpoint between O’Hare International Airport and the conference venue, approximately 15 minutes to either location.

What are the options for transportation from the airport? 
Taxi, Uber, and Lyft are the best options for transit from either O’Hare or Midway airport. These services usually cost $30–$50. The CTA ‘L’ train is an economical alternative but requires a transfer in downtown Chicago. Trains are available from both O’Hare and from Midway.  See here for transit options to downtown Oak Park.

Will the conference sessions be recorded? 
As with past conferences, the CPT will make recordings available for as many of the conference sessions as we are able. These recordings, along with prior conference recordings, will be available on our conference media site in the months following the conference. We cannot guarantee the online availability of every session from the conference due to technical constraints and non-release agreements. 

Can the CPT provide assistance in obtaining a visa? 
No. We are not providing visa invitation letters for this conference. 

Can I volunteer? 
We welcome a limited number of volunteers for the event. Volunteers assist with set up, tear down, and other logistics. Volunteers receive one complimentary registration and are welcomed to attend the conference sessions. Complete a volunteer form to express interest in this opportunity.

Are exhibit spaces and advertising available? 
Yes. Visit our exhibitor information page for details. 
 
For further questions, please feel free to Contact Us.