HOPE2008 is a mission initiative for the whole nation next year. It follows on from other large initiatives such as Festival Manchester (2003), and Soul in the City (2006) where practical expressions of Christian love, involving mainly young people, accompanied worship and evangelism. This time all ages are involved in the whole nation for the whole year, but there are 6 high points during the year:
Fresh Hope at New Year will encourage churches to begin the year in prayer, find ways of helping individuals and communities bring New Year Resolutions to fruit, and engage with the needs of the poor and marginalised by learning about the real needs that exist in our communities.
The Big Hope - Lent and Easter 2008 could become opportunities to make sure the whole community around us in streets, schools, universities and workplaces is aware of the message of hope that Easter brings.
A Million Hours of Kindness over May Bank Holiday. Meeting the needs of communities and individuals in spontaneous and imaginative ways but above all loving and practical ones.
Festival weeks or weekends - Cities, towns and villages could hold their own special events under the Hope 08 banner. One town is hosting a Family Fun Day where rides, entertainment, events and food are all laid on for the community free of charge, paid for by the churches working together. The aim is to give something to the community which excites them. It creates lasting memories for many.
The Big Invitation. Invitations to explore the Christian Faith in courses like Alpha, Emmaus, and Christianity Explored will go out across the nation.
The Big Gift. Using Advent and Christmas to reach the community with the Christian message of 'God with us'.
Whatever draws you to get involved, 2008 promises to be a remarkable year for mission. The BBC is planning a series on the resurrection during Holy Week 2008 which it is expected will faithfully follow Gospel texts.
Further details of all these and other activities can be found on the HOPE2008 website at
(article taken from SeeRound Sept 07)