Summary – 2023 RHP Europe Roundtable
Hope as an Anchor
The setting for the RHP Europe Roundtable in 2023 was Castellammare di Stabia in Naples, Italy. With the dormant Mt Vesuvius volcano in full view, it served as a reminder of how quickly and suddenly lives and communities can be upended by events outside of our control.
Naples, Italy
The setting for the RHP Europe Roundtable in 2023 was Castellammare di Stabia in Naples, Italy. With the dormant Mt Vesuvius volcano in full view, it served as a reminder of how quickly and suddenly lives and communities can be upended by events outside of our control. This year over 380 people gathered to meet, learn, worship, pray and connect focusing on the theme of Hope as an Anchor.
Plenary Speaker
Our plenary speaker this year was Rev. Jean-Pierre Gatera. Rev Jean-Pierre both inspired and challenged all of us with a mix of personal stories from his own experience on the refugee highway and as a pastor. Born to Burundian parents in Rwanda during the Rwandan genocide, Jean-Pierre’s life was turned upside down as he was separated from his family and lived in various refugee camps including many years in a Kenyan camp. He came to faith in Christ and went on to study and gain degrees in theology and ministry becoming a pastor and eventually settling in the USA. Through the course of the week Jean-Pierre challenged us never to lose hope in Jesus as the one who is both Saviour and our Anchor for our lives.
Italian Context
As in previous Roundtables an integral part of our time together is to bless and encourage the local church hosts in their own vision to serve refugees and displaced people’s in their own communities. Several Italian pastors and leaders shared their testimonies and experiences of being a refugee or serving refugees. Many Italian participants were incredibly thankful to connect for the first time with other like-minded people and were encouraged to have hope that they are not alone in their work. We are thankful to the local Italian team who hosted us and helped organise the Roundtable on location.
Roundtable Regulars
Roundtable regulars included the sharing of ideas, up to date information and great training sessions through the Workshops and seminars. We are thankful to all the workshop leaders who shared so well with the community from their experience and expertise. In addition, the RHP provides the opportunity to browse, buy and share resources through the display section.
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