Frequently Asked Questions

The conference is open to all year-round Operation Christmas Child Connect Volunteers. Guests of Connect Volunteers (adults, 15 years or older) may also attend by registering for the Full Conference, or Evenings Only package. If you have a question about your volunteer status, please contact your Regional Office.

What is included with registration?

Your conference registration includes meals beginning with Thursday dinner through Sunday breakfast, access to the General Sessions, Breakout Session selections, ministry displays as well as conference materials.

Registering for the Pre-Conference Package includes three additional breakout sessions, lunch and break service on Thursday.

Overnight accommodations are not included in the conference fee. Visit the Event Details page for more information about registration packages and rates.

I am not able to attend all of the Pre-Conference sessions. Can I still register for some of them? 

Sessions in the Pre-Conference Package have a flat registration rate. For $75, Connect Volunteers and guests can participate in as many of the Pre-Conference sessions as they would like. Registration includes three Breakout Sessions, lunch, and a break service. If you are unable to attend all of the sessions, feel free to come for some of them.

I'm planning my travel details. When does the event start and end?

Optional Pre-Conference activities begin Thursday morning, April 29. The conference will officially start by gathering with others from your region late Thursday afternoon, followed by dinner and a General Session conference kick-off. 

Visit the Event Details page for a conference schedule overview. Times are subject to change and will be updated as needed.

Will I be able to select my Breakout Sessions?

Yes, Breakout Session selection will be available closer to the event. An email will be sent to all registered attendees inviting you to select your Breakout Sessions.

What can I expect in the Breakout Sessions?

Breakout Sessions will cover a variety of topics around biblical teaching, spiritual encouragement, and leadership equipping.

Will there be a virtual event?

Are discounted hotel rates available?

Yes! Visit the Travel & Housing page to view rates, ways to book, and deadlines for making your reservations. Please use the provided room reservation links or contact the hotel directly to book your room. We encourage all Global Connect Conference attendees to book at one of our featured hotels to ensure a seamless event experience.

Is parking available at the conference?

Complimentary self-parking is available for registered Global Connect Conference attendees staying overnight at hotels with Samaritan’s Purse room blocks.

Will I have access to Global Connect Conference sessions after the event ends?

Can I bring guests?

Yes, we are allowing guests. For $850, which is the cost of the conference to Samaritan’s Purse, guests can attend the entire conference. Guests may also choose to register for Pre-Conference sessions and/or the evening-only package, which includes dinner and General Sessions each day of the conference. Guest registration is open to anyone over the age of 15 and is on a first-come, first-served basis, while space remains. You will be responsible for hosting and communicating all event details with your guest.

Visit the Event Details page for more information about guest registration packages and rates.

May my children attend?

All scheduled conference programs are open to registered Connect Volunteers and guests age 15 and over. We are not able to accommodate children under the age of 15, with the exception of nursing infants. Childcare facilities are not available.

What accessibility resources are available for the conference?

Please reach out to the Operation Christmas Child Events Team at occevents@samaritan.org or 1-800-442-9120 if you have a need or questions related to accessibility resources.

What if I need to cancel my registration?

Please see the cancellation chart below for specific dates. Cancellation can be completed online by clicking the "Already Registered?" link below the Register Now button at the end of this page. If you have questions about canceling your registration, please contact us at occevents@samaritan.org. 

I have more questions; who can I talk to?

For questions related to event registration or event details, please contact the Operation Christmas Child Events Team at occevents@samaritan.org or 1-800-442-9120.