Budapest, the historic capital of Hungary, and the well-equipped Budapest Congress Centre, played host to the HOPE.21 Congress delegates from across the continent. The Hungarian State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Zsolth Nemeth, spoke at the opening ceremony and called the conference a historic event, as "this is the first time this many Evangelicals have gathered, together with representatives of the traditional churches here in Hungary." In the past 12 years, he said, Hungary had faced the unprecedented challenges of a political, economic and social transition. "A far greater challenge than these," Nemeth pointed out, "is the spiritual renewal of Hungarian society. Churches have an indispensable role in this process."

Evening plenary sessions celebrated a diversity of musical traditions with classical, choral, rock, and African music, and spirited worship led by Geraldine Latty.

HOPE.21's theme of "Shaping Europe's Future ... Together" came vividly alive as 25 pan-European Networks piece by piece and evening by evening built one large puzzle piece, a map of Europe. Each network, such as these depicted here (Disabilities, Education and Artists, left to right) brought an indispensable element to the total picture.

Networks such as "Women in Leadership" met each day in local hotels. They worked together to form new partnerships and seek ways to bring hope to women in need across Europe.

After two very full days of network consultations, participants regrouped in national gatherings to plan strategies for their own nations.

Members of HFE working group and HOPE.21 committee:
Left to right: Peter Regez, Steve Chilcraft, Alexandra Depuhl, Gordon Showell-Rogers (in front), Ron Spillards, Ron Kernahan and Jeff Fountain.