GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan — More than 275 delegates, including faith-based travel planners from 23 states and the Bahamas, gathered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, September 4-6, for the 15th annual Going On Faith Conference. These planners were joined by travel industry representatives from across the United States and seven foreign countries, including Israel, Jordan, England, Germany, Ireland, the Bahamas and Canada.
“The Going On Faith Conference is a joy to produce due to its faith-based emphasis,” said conference CEO Joe Cappuzzello of The Group Travel Family. “With the help of our hosts in Grand Rapids, this relaxed gathering was a great place to be for selling to churches and religious entities from across the world. This is an event everyone looks forward to.”
Experience Grand Rapids was instrumental in planning the event, and under the guidance of Dave Nitkiewicz, the organization hosted a superb opening evening at the acclaimed Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Delegates enjoyed guided tram tours of the gardens and were entertained by jazz and contemporary musicians during the event.
More than 3,000 six-minute appointments were held between planners and destinations in the conference’s two marketplace sessions. Sightseeing tours of Grand Rapids showcased its museums and craft breweries, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, and other local points of interest.
Primary meal and event sponsors at the conference included the Globus Family of Brands, the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, MSC Cruises (USA) Inc., Visit Wichita, Collette, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Diamond Tours, US Tours, the Galveston Island CVB and Visit Evansville. The Shrine of Christ’s Passion sponsored a keynote presentation by Bob Pacanovsky, who shared his expertise in planning black-tie experiences for faith-based clients and groups.
Next year’s Going On Faith Conference will take place August 19-21, in Wichita, Kansas. For registration details, visit gofconference.com.
