Answers to questions and responses to feedback from Ann Notte, long-time Diocesan Convention Manager:
Let’s start with the most frequently asked question:
Why can’t we have tables?
Finding a space that can seat 900 people in New Jersey is hard.
To seat 900 people with tables requires one of the large convention centers in the state. Those are made for thousands of people and cost accordingly. That cost would have to be passed on to attendees.
But we had tables in Wildwood!
The translucent ceiling at the Wildwood Convention Center doesn’t allow us to use the large screens which are required for videos, presentations, and displaying election results. This makes Wildwood non-viable.
Costs.
Why are boxed lunches so expensive?
We are required to purchase food through the conference center because of the terms of the contract with the conference center. We must use the center’s contracted services and cannot bring in our own caterers. Spending a certain amount of money on food and drink allows us to get the space more affordably.
Why do we have to pay a $25 registration fee? That seems ridiculous.
Convention registration in the Diocese of NJ is actually CHEAPER than in surrounding dioceses, which range from $75-170 per attendee. The registration fee helps defray the many costs associated with this huge event.
Accessibility.
I witnessed some elderly and those with canes/walkers/wheelchairs standing in the back/leaning against the back wall because there were no accessible seats or spaces.
This will be addressed this year, with reserved accessible seating and additional instructions to ushers before the Eucharist.
Lastly, voting.
Why don’t we have electronic voting? Wouldn’t that be faster and easier?
Electronic voting is expensive and is often more complicated and time consuming than paper ballots, resulting in spoiled ballots and often confusing results. Please speak to our General Convention Deputation for more information on this.
I often don’t know the nominees or understand what each committee does in order to evaluate who would be the best equipped for each position.
Each year the Nominating Committee publishes a report with candidate biographies and photos as well as the responsibilities of the position for which they are running. This is posted each year on this website, along with financial documents, and committee and organizational reports. It is also included in the convention booklet.
If you don’t see your concern here, feel free to let us know.
Convention Journals and information from Previous Conventions may be found here.
