United Methodist conference to draw 1,500 to Springfield

Based on the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau’s spending formula for conventioneers, the attendees are expected to impact the Springfield economy to the tune of about $900,000, including purchases for hotel rooms, dining and shopping. Springfield CVB spokeswoman Susan Wade said conventioneers spend an estimated $150 a day per person during their stays.

University Plaza General Manager Robert Henley said the center city hotel is fully booked for the weekend.

The conference, which focuses on youth and college-age ministry, offers several workshops, including Ministry as Careers and Using Social Media for Youth Communications.

Keynote speakers include Kenda Creasy Dean, a United Methodist pastor in the Baltimore-Washington Conferenceand a professor of youth, church and culture at Princeton Theological Seminary.