This summer’s 65th Regular Convention of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod offers an opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their programs, products and services to some 3,500 attendees representing the 2.3 million members of the Synod who are expected to attend.
The convention will be held July 20-25 at the America’s Center Convention Complex in St. Louis.
Exhibitors may include LCMS agencies; auxiliaries; Recognized Service Organizations; LCMS Group Purchasing Agreement National Contract Program vendors; LCMS educational institutions; organizations that work cooperatively with or serve as a resource to the Synod, its districts or congregations; and others whose practices or wares align with the interests of LCMS church and lay leaders, pastors, staff and members.
The Synod’s triennial convention serves as the principal legislative assembly for the church body. It offers the opportunity for worship, nurture, inspiration, fellowship and the communication of information for delegates and visitors. Attendees include a mix of pastors, teachers, other professional church workers and lay members, all of whom are instrumental in leading their congregations, schools, districts and ministries in thousands of locations around the world.
More than 100 exhibitors participated in the last convention, held in 2010 at the GRB Convention Center in Houston. Convention organizers encourage both returning and new exhibitors to apply for booth space at this year’s convention.
“Exhibitors are an important part of the convention experience for the delegates, church workers, lay leaders, staff and guests who attend,” said Barbara A. Below, assistant to the LCMS president and convention coordinator. “Through the exhibits, convention attendees learn about programs and ministries going on in the church and our communities, discover products and services, gather new information and ideas, network with experts on all manner of subjects, and explore opportunities for partnership and collaboration. Exhibitors provide resources and inspiration that attendees can take home and build on. While the convention business will take place on those five days in St. Louis, what attendees gain from the exhibitors can last well beyond.”
“Baptized for This Moment,” based on Acts 2:38-39, is the theme of this year’s convention. Exhibitors are encouraged to incorporate the theme of the convention into their booths and giveaway items.
Exhibit fees range from $500 to $750 per 10-by-10-foot booth and include one 8-foot table, a chair, an identification sign, carpeting, skirting and draping. The fees also include registration for two booth workers. There is a $5 fee per person for additional booth workers. Products may be both given away and sold at exhibit booths.
In addition, a limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available. For information, contact Lynne Marvin at lynne.marvin@lcms.org or 314-996-1355.
Exhibitor application is open through March 28. To download an application form, visit www.lcms.org/convention/exhibitor or contact Peggy Croghan at peggy.croghan@lcms.org or 314-996-1148.
Posted March 7, 2013
