Planning team announces decision that NOAC 2021 will be a virtual conference

*National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) 2021 will be held on the theme “Overflowing with Hope” (Romans 15:13).*

From the NOAC 2021 Planning Team

The planning team for National Older Adult Conference (NOAC) 2021, scheduled for Sept. 6-10 next year, met online via Zoom in October. After much discussion, it was decided that the 2021 conference will be held online only, based upon ongoing concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic.

The team did not make this decision lightly. We believe that it is the most responsible decision that can be made at this time.

The following factors were considered:

— Current restrictions at the site in Lake Junaluska, N.C., severely limit in-person gatherings. There is no way we can predict possible restrictions for September 2021.

— NOAC participants are in the age group that is particularly vulnerable to the virus. Our first priority is protecting our sisters and brothers.

— We have numerous deadline considerations and believe it is better to make the decision now rather than waiting until the last minute.

— We have no way of knowing what transportation (i.e., buses, airlines) and lodging options will be available next September.

The planning team is working on developing creative ways to joyfully experience NOAC online. As disappointing as it is, we feel that we will be able to craft an exciting and fulfilling NOAC, just in a different format. Thank you for your future participation, this will be a wonderful time.

— The NOAC 2021 Planning Team includes Christy Waltersdorff (coordinator), Glenn Bollinger, Karen Dillon, Jim Martinez, Rex Miller, Pat Roberts, Paula Ziegler Ulrich, and staff Josh Brockway and Stan Dueck from Discipleship Ministries. For more information go to www.brethren.org/noac.

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