History and Overview

The Theology of Play Conference started in 2018 as a theology of play conversation that invited five Presbyterian game designers to Menucha Retreat and Conference Center in Corbett, Oregon. From that rich conversation about what it means to have a theology of play as ministers and educators, we launched a fuller expression of that conversation with our 2019 conference TOPCON! Over forty folks from around the country gathered to explore this important doctrine (and to play a lot of games). Due to the pandemic however, in 2020, we held our second TOPCON! gathering as a thirteen hour online conference. After a four year hiatus, we’re bringing TOPCON! back to you live and in-person–this time on the east coast!

Hailed by 2019 participants as the “best conference” they had ever attended, we’re excited for the return of TOPCON! This year, the Theology of Play Conference will be focused on reimagining a theology of play in light of other doctrines, fields of study, and participant generated topics.

Consequently, our theme is: “Rethinking Play As…” and it’s our job to fill in the blanks. At TOPCON! 2025, you’ll have the opportunity to hear plenary lectures from our conference organizers, Jason Brian Santos and Brian Frick and our workshops will be offered by conference participants who desire to fill in the prompt: “Rethinking Play As…”

Below you will find more information on the schedule and costs for TOPCON 2025. Keep in mind, the schedule is subject to change and that the conference is all inclusive (lodging, meals, and program fees included). Transportation to and from Stony Point Center is the responsibility of each conference participant.