Policy for Speaking
by Tony Campolo
In trying to follow the example of Jesus, I have resolved to speak for any group that is willing to hear me share my convictions without compromise. When Jesus was among us in the flesh, He often spoke with people and groups that the religious establishment found objectionable, and there are times when I am likely to come under scrutiny for doing the same. I ask that those who are upset with some of my speaking engagements judge me on the basis of what I say on such occasions, rather than simply because of those to whom I speak. That I speak in a particular setting does not mean that I necessarily agree with the beliefs of the group or organization that invited me.
As a case in point, I have recently been invited to speak to a group that affirms a lifestyle that is contrary to what I believe the Bible teaches. This group knows where I stand on this matter, but still is willing to have me speak for them, knowing that I will speak about what I believe and why I believe as I do. On this occasion, as always, I will do my best to speak the truth in love.
This is a day and an age wherein all Christians must find a way to communicate with those who hold contrary convictions. To contend that we love certain people and then refuse to express that love in being with them and talking with them seems questionable to me. There is no other way I can see for the Gospel to be spread and the love of God expressed to those who differ with us than by speaking directly, even to those with whom we disagree.
It is fair to judge me only for what I say, rather than where and to whom I say it.
INVITE TONY TO SPEAK
Dr. Tony Campolo speaks over 400 times a year throughout the United States and around the world, addressing a wide variety of conferences, churches, festivals, crusades, universities, and professional gatherings. He generally books his speaking calendar 18-24 months in advance, and even dates that appear free are sometimes being negotiated with other groups. Only confirmed dates are added to Dr. Campolo’s itinerary.
To invite Dr. Campolo to speak to your group, simply fill out his speaking invitation form completely and email it directly to his executive assistant, James Warren, at jwarren@eastern.edu. If you prefer, you may also write him a letter which should include the information suggested at the bottom of this page.
Costs:
Normal arrangements for hosting Dr. Campolo (and his wife, or another companion, should he opt to be accompanied) to attend, include hotel accommodations, honorarium, meals, and round-trip airfare(s) from Philadelphia (when applicable), to be invoiced after the event. All travel arrangements are made by our office and we have found that it works best if you simply plan on the cost of a round trip airfare from Philadelphia to your event, regardless of flight connections or other speaking engagements. Please rest assured that we always seek the best possible fare, so your actual cost may be lower. We have established this policy due to the complexity of Dr. Campolo's travel schedule. Because Dr. Campolo has no set speaking fee, honorariums are negotiated for each event.
Our Process:
Once you have submitted your written request using the TC Invitation Information Form (.doc file). to Dr. Campolo’s executive assistant, James Warren, at jwarren@eastern.edu, please allow about 30 days for a response to your request. Within that time Dr. Campolo and his review team will examine your invitation and make a determination as to Dr. Campolo’s ability to fulfill your request. If Dr. Campolo and his office have agreed to a firm date for you, James will notify you via email. We will list the date, time agreed and the terms of our acceptance. At that point you will have two weeks to respond in writing as to your acceptance as stated. If Dr. Campolo and his office do not feel that he can accept your invitation, Dr. Campolo will write you a letter of explanation.
If we all agree, then a confirmation email packet will follow, with all the details for your time with Dr. Campolo. It will include an acceptance letter, three forms to be completed, and information about publicity. Many engagements can be handled fully by carefully and thoroughly completing the forms as detailed as possible. Within two weeks to ten days prior to Dr. Campolo’s engagement with you, you will receive a final travel arrangements email listing everything we are expecting on both ends, to help you have a great engagement with Dr. Campolo.
Canceling:
Once we agree to a date for Dr. Campolo to be with you a cancelation fee becomes enforceable. You will be expected to provide an honorarium of $1500/day should you cancel an engagement without his consent. If Dr. Campolo’s engagement would have required him to be with you overnight, then the fee of $3000 will be collected to cover both days. Failure to return forms does not release you from the cancellation fee, should you cancel. It is your obligation and responsibility to contact us if you decide to cancel.
Limitations on Schedule:
In order to protect Dr. Campolo from undue stress and exhaustion, his schedule is limited to no more than two speaking times per day, preferably separated by some time for rest. Moreover, there can be absolutely no 'add-ons' (interviews, question-and-answer sessions, special meals, prayer meetings, or book signing without prior, written approval from our office.) If you want to include these, we ask that you submit them in your initial request.
Written Request:
For a faster response, we suggest using the online invitation form mentioned above. However, if you prefer to write an invitation letter instead, please include the following information:
- A full description of the event.
- A full description of how you would like Dr. Campolo to participate in the event, including if possible the times you would like him to speak.
- The attendance and type of audience you expect, and a description of the event venue.
- The proposed date or dates for event (please note if your dates are flexible, and give preferences.
- A full description of your organization/institution.
- Complete contact information for your organization/institution, including the name, address, phone and fax numbers, and e-mail address of the primary contact person.
- The name of the closest airport(s) and the distance from that airport(s) to the event.
Please note that Dr. Campolo generally books his calendar 18-24 months in advance. In most cases, all travel and lodging expenses are paid by the event sponsor. Because Dr. Campolo has no set speaking fee, honorariums are negotiated for each event.
Send your letter to:
Dr. Tony Campolo
EAPE
1300 Eagle Rd.
St. Davids, PA 19087
or e-mail his assistant, James, at jwarren@eastern.edu