February 11th, 2025Gathering 2025 Q&A
Q and A: Travel, arrival, accommodation, childcare for Gathering 2025 in Kitchener, ON
The goal for Gathering 2025 is a travel and accommodation experience that allows attendees to decide what works best for them, keeps costs low, and simplifies logistics for the Gathering hosts.
When should we get there? This depends on what you are choosing to participate in…
- Pre-Gathering Leadership Day (for pastors and church leaders in spiritual care) and the Canadian Ministries Day (planned by Indigenous Relations and Climate Action) events start at 9am on Wednesday, July 2.
- Gathering 2025 at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate (Youth have their own Gathering - see below). Join delegates and congregational representatives for inspiring sessions, worship, and connection.
- Registration/check-in happens 3pm - 6pm on Wednesday, July 2.
- Pre-Gathering workshops offered from 4pm – 5pm. Optional. No sign-up needed.
- Gathering 2025 held between Wednesday, July 2 at 7pm and noon on Saturday, July 5.
- One-day attendance options will also be available.
- U30 Young Adult. Engage with peers through tailored events during Gathering 2025. Bonus: a post-Gathering celebration from Friday evening through Sunday noon. More details.
- Youth Gathering. A vibrant, energetic event designed specifically for youth (grades 6-12) hosted on the University of Waterloo campus. Registration from 3pm - 5pm on Wednesday, July 2 at Conrad Grebel. Concludes at noon on Saturday, July 5.
Will there be childcare? Yes! Childcare will be provided onsite at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate by the enthusiastic and experienced staff from Silver Lake Mennonite Camp. Designed for children aged 5-12, the program will feature songs, games, and plenty of outdoor activities, all led by energetic camp leaders.
The cost for childcare is $150, which includes care and meals on the following dates and times:
~ Wednesday: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
~ Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Breakfast, Bag Lunch, Dinner)
~ Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Breakfast, Bag Lunch, Dinner)
~ Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Breakfast)
Please note that registration for childcare will be required, along with a waiver form (details to come). Make sure to sign up early to ensure your child's spot!
Where should I stay? Please arrange your own accommodation that best suits your needs. The type of local transportation you use (walk, public transport, taxi, car share, car rental) will impact where you stay. Stay with family/friends, camp, share an Airbnb, or book yourself or your group into a hotel. We have negotiated group prices with the following hotels:
- Crown Plaza, Kitchener BOOK (choose dates and number of people; group code MNC already chosen)
- Courtyard Kitchener Hotel BOOK (this will take you directly to the group rate page; deadline to book is Monday, June 2)
- DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener BOOK (choose dates and number of people; group code CDTMEN already chosen)
NOTE: U30 Young Adults have arranged accommodations at St. Jerome's residence. More details.
What would you suggest for flight destinations? Is there someone that is doing airport pick-ups?
There are airports in Waterloo, Hamilton, and Toronto. Please arrange flights to a destination city that provides the best travel experience for the best price. Gathering planners are not arranging for airport pickups or drop-offs. You will need to find your own way to your hotel or Rockway Mennonite Collegiate (110 Doon Rd, Kitchener, ON) - is there someone who can pick you up at the airport? Or take public transport, taxi, car rental, etc.
Where can I find more information about Gathering 2025?
Start at our main Gathering 2025 webpage which is updated regularly as more information is available. From here you will be able to find specific information for Gathering, U30 Young Adults, and Youth Gathering.
When will be able to register?
We are planning for registration for all tracks to be available on March 5.
Have more questions? Email gathering@mennonitechurch.ca.