In a move that surprised some, the UPC General Board voted to increase the General Conference registration fee. Because of the loss of alternate sources of funding and rising expenses incurred by the General Conference, the deficit has increased about $500,000.00 annually. At this time, the accumulated deficit is approximately $1.9 million. The deficit was addressed last year by instituting a $25.00 registration charge for the General Conference. The registration added about $208,000.00 to the income of the General Conference and reduced the annual deficit to $333,000.00.
As you can see this was still not enough. In order to further reduce the annual deficit, the General Board voted to increase the General Conference registration once again. Early registration is $50.00 and the deadline for early registration is September 15, 2008. Beginning September 16, 2008 you may continue to register for $75.00 until October 6, 2008, but you will need to pick up your registration packet at General Conference. Registration is required for ages 18 and up. Also, the annual conference crusade service remains free to attend.
In addition, it has been reported that a General Conference Finance Committee is working to monitor and reduce the General Conference expenses as much as possible and develop alternate sources of funding.
To learn more and register for the 2008 General Conference, Click here.
