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Dear Delegates and Guests
We offer you a warm welcome to the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe in Berne. On January 1, 2003, the four previous UMC circuits in the city of Berne joined together to form one city-wide circuit. This comprises four congregations of differing size and sculpture: ‘Altstadt’, ‘Lukas’, ‘Matthäus’ und Wabern. The members and friends of our circuit look forward to meeting you and giving you hospitality.
Berne is the capital of Switzerland. Its old town is recognised as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. We hope you will find time in between all the work to stroll under the ‘Lauben’ (the covered walkways) and discover many a charming spot. As you approach the main railway station you may perhaps notice the contrast which characterises our life here: to the left the striking silhouette of the old town against an alpine panorama in the background, to the right the alternative arts centre (‘Reithalle’), with its pulsating passion.
Of course, you are coming here to work. We will do all we can to provide the conference with a framework that makes this easier. We can already assure you that the distances between conference venues are short. You should therefore hopefully find more time for conversation during the breaks.
We present our special compliments to the bishop, wishing him wisdom, composure and imagination as he presides over the conference. May it be a time of uplifting fellowship, invigorating spiritual experiences and productive work for all delegates and guests! The Holy Spirit will lead and guide the bishop and the whole conference – of that we are confident.
The joy of the Lord is your strength.
For the UMC Berne
The ministerial team
Gunnar Wichers, Denise Sigrist, Martin Roth
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