What is General Conference?
General Conference is a place to connect with MCCers, friends and allies from around the world. We conduct MCC’s denominational business and provide opportunities for our Global Communities to worship, connect and learn together.
Is the General Conference only for lay delegates and clergy?
NO − The General Conference is open to anyone who wishes to register. The conference is modeled in a way that the meetings and activities are relevant to all attendees.
Are there any events I can attend if I did not register?
YES − All of our worship services are open to the public and do not require a registration to attend. We highly encourage you to register so that you might experience the conference. Be sure to take a look at the registration page to choose from one of our many different payment options.
Can I bring my family to the General Conference?
YES − We encourage you to bring your family. Many of our registrants use the conference as part of their family vacation. We also provide children and youth programming for ages 3-18, so you do not have to worry about the little ones being left out.
Will there be programming for children?
YES − We will have two programs, one for children and one for youth. Our children’s program is a week-long Vacation Bible School for children ages 3-12. We also have a youth program for ages 13-18 that provides a space for youth to connect.
Will the conference provide programming for children under the age of three?
NO − We will not be providing this service at the conference; however, the hotel offers babysitting services for a fee. Please contact the hotel to make arrangements or with any questions.
Do I need a passport to get to Canada?
YES – Proper travel documents are required to travel to Canada. You can read more here.
For US Citizens, one can also obtain a NEXUS card for travel into Canada or an enhanced Driver’s License (only for WA and NY residents). Read more here.
What are the temperatures like in Victoria in July?
Victoria has a temperate climate with dry, sunny summers. The average temperatures in July are 70 degrees Fahrenheit / 21 degrees Celsius daytime and high 52 degrees Fahrenheit / high 11 degrees Celsius nighttime.
Canada is the only country that has strict regulations for entering Canada for attendees that might have a criminal record. A criminal record is as simple as a DUI or having written a bad check. So many times this surprises attendees and they can be turned around at immigration in Canadian soil which can be a horrible hassle having spent on airfare and conference registration. If you think you may be in this situtation, contact immigration services immediately.
I have a special dietary requirement and/or food allergies?
Please see the Accessibility Page for details.
I wear glasses or contact lenses. What do I need to know?
Bring an extra pair of contact lenses and/or glasses together with all the supplies necessary to care for, clean and maintain your corrective lenses.
I use a mobility device (walker, wheelchair or scooter). What items do I need to plan for when traveling to the conference?
Contact the MCC office for information about accessible transportation to and from the airport. Conferences@MCCchurch.net
I am traveling with a service animal. What items do I need to plan for?
- Identification – Ensure that your service animal is wearing an appropriate vest, collar or other identification as a working service animal. All I.D. tags must be current.
- Rabies Vaccination and Health Certificates (Required)
- Pet Food – It is strongly recommended that you bring or ship your service animal’s food. Some pet food brands are regional, and it’s not guaranteed you will be able to find your pet food in Victoria.
What happens in the case of a medical emergency?
Expect that medical care and treatment will come at a cost. Contact your health insurance provider to make sure that these costs are covered under your policy. You may need to purchase additional traveler’s health insurance.
I have a medical condition. What do I need to know to plan my trip?
- Insurance – Expect that medical care and treatment will come at a cost. Contact your health insurance provider to make sure that these costs are covered under your policy. You may need to purchase additional traveler’s health insurance.
- Medical Records – In case of emergency, successful treatment will be dependent on knowing your medical history and any existing conditions. Bring a copy of your medical records. The record should include: any medications you are currently taking (prescription and over-the-counter), any allergies (especially pharmaceutical allergies) and any chronic or other conditions that you have been or are being treated for. Twenty-four hour contact information for your doctor is also important so that local physicians can consult your personal doctor if needed.
- You may also wish to get or update a medical alert bracelet or necklace, especially if your medical history includes conditions that may render you unconscious and unable to communicate with the attending medical professionals. See the information about traveling with medication for additional details.
I have serious allergies. What plans do I need to make for my travel?
If you have a condition such as asthma, bee sting allergies or extreme food allergies that may require rescue medication, be sure to carry your rescue medication with you at all times in a clearly identifiable container. Also, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace. See the information about traveling with medication for additional details.
I have a hyperactive or compromised immune system and/or have MCS / IEI / TILT. What types of considerations should I plan for?
As you are aware, it is difficult to assess what chemicals may be in the environment at the hotel. We recommend you travel with your own towels, linens and personal care products. Work with the MCC Staff to contact the hotel’s housekeeping department at least 2 weeks in advance of the conference. Discuss your particular needs and share requests for cleaning your room such as removing all bed linens prior to your arrival, using a room with windows that open, limiting cleaning to vinegar and water, or other accommodations.
I am traveling with medication. What do I need to know?
Bring an adequate supply of all medications. Medications must be in their original containers and clearly labeled. Carry a signed, dated letter from your primary physician describing all medical conditions and listing all medications, including generic names. If carrying syringes or needles, be sure to carry a physician’s letter documenting their medical necessity. Pack all medications in carry-on luggage. It is recommended that you carry a duplicate supply in the checked luggage. If you have significant allergies or chronic medical problems, wear a medical alert bracelet. (For additional information see the Medical Emergencies and Medications and Pharmaceutical Supplies Sections)
Medications and Pharmaceutical Supplies
- Travel with enough medication to cover the length of your stay plus enough for two extra days.
- For over-the-counter medication and pharmaceutical supplies, have your personal physician prepare a copy of your medical records indicating their need and use.
- Carry all medication, pharmaceutical supplies, and documentation with you in your carry-on luggage. Once at the hotel, make sure your roommate knows where this information is, and if possible, keep a copy with you in a purse, bag, wallet or pocket.
- Refrigerators – When you make your hotel reservation, note that you require a refrigerator.
I am traveling with oxygen. What do I need to know?
Air Travel
If you occasionally or regularly require supplemental oxygen, most U.S. air carriers and many overseas carriers can provide service for passengers requiring oxygen. The FAA requires a physician’s statement of your oxygen needs in order to fly on a commercial airline. You cannot bring your own oxygen on-board, you must use airline supplied oxygen. Requirements vary from carrier to carrier, but they all require arrangements be made in advance, and they all charge for in-flight oxygen. Contact the airline’s special services or medical department at least seven days in advance of your trip. Charges range between USD$50.00 and USD$150.00 per flight. If you change planes on your trip, you will be charged twice. If possible, take a direct flight or one with an extra stop but no plane change.
Airlines don’t provide oxygen for in-terminal use, even during layovers. Some airports do not allow oxygen containers to pass through the security check point. You need to make arrangements for oxygen while waiting for your flight and between legs separately. It may be easiest to book your flight through a travel agent that specializes in disability travel. A list of agents is available at www.disabledtravelers.com/travel_agents.htm
Oxygen Concentrators
In order to use an oxygen concentrator on-board you must get a written statement indicating that you can see/hear alarms and respond properly, when oxygen is necessary, and the maximum rate of flow as allowed by the cabin pressure. A possible template form for your physician to complete is available at www.inogen.net/faa. Some airlines may require the statement on the physician’s official letterhead.
Before booking the flight, make sure that the airline knows that you are planning to use an oxygen concentrator. Be sure to ask about the availability and type of power supplies available during the flight. Also, be sure to have a backup oxygen supply planned for your final destination.
Make sure your oxygen concentrator is clean and well-maintained. Bring enough batteries for the flight and a few extra in case of delays. Go to the airport early because it may take longer for the oxygen concentrator to pass security. It will also be helpful to have information about your oxygen concentrator from the manufacturer and medical record documentation of your need from your physician. You may encounter a customs agent who is not familiar with this specific piece of medical equipment. After the flight, be sure to recharge your batteries for the trip home.