Despite the challenges of the economic recession, more than 50 international HOPE worldwide leaders joined us for Global Summit 2009. We are truly grateful they were able to take part in the jam-packed weekend of inspiration and times of sharing ways to make HOPE worldwide programs even more effective.

The international sessions began with powerful devotionals each day. On Thursday, Dan Liu, Executive Director, Sihanouk Hospital of HOPE spoke on the importance of submitting to God's will. While Dan would say he was preaching to himself, we know that he is a great example of one who has made his major life decisions on this principle. His step of faith to move his family to Cambodia two and a half years ago and the one he is making now to remain with HOPE worldwide as he transitions back to Hong Kong are testimony to that fact. 

On Friday, Sergey Korobenko, Executive Director, Russia shared about growth through suffering. We were moved to tears as he revealed to the group about the personal and painful obstacles he has endured and overcome and how God is using him today to help others avoid the same pain.

Randy Jordan, HOPE worldwide CEO, personally welcomed everyone and delivered a state of HOPE worldwide message that were both sobering and inspirational. We are greatly encouraged by the transparency and vision of our new leader!

Dr. Gary Jacques, Vice President, Global Programs presented his perspective of the decisions facing country directors in the HOPE worldwide family. Using a jar of marbles Gary illustrated how we are all individuals blessed with unique gifts but when we are united and working together we create a complete and beautiful world of possibilities pointing to a globe made out of colorful semi-precious stones. Joyce Tan, Country Director, Singapore expressed in writing what many said later when she wrote: "We look forward to taking things from good to great and being a unified HOPE worldwide globe instead of individual marbles."

Dr. Jacques continued with a talk on values-based development complete with a diagram that some compared to a page from an organic chemistry book!  It created a robust discussion and was accepted with great enthusiasm.

Marc Aguirre, Executive Director Global Programs and Wil Horwood, Executive Director, UK led us in a discussion of Vision, Values and Guiding Principles for our international work.  Marc and Wil will submit a draft by the end of June on a suggested vision and values statement that will serve as an overarching guide.  It is acknowledged that each country or program may have a more narrow vision/mission/ statement depending on the nature of their work.

Marcia Scaggs, Phat Vuong, David Blenko, Mark and Nadine Templer all shared very enlightening presentations on the theme of storytelling and its importance in sharing about our work with others.

In conclusion, Tim Kernan, from the U.S. Global Leadership Council, encouraged the team with an overview of the United States' 54 billion dollar foreign affairs budget!

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