Discussion Hope Café: Dialogue on the Topic of “Hope”
26 February 2026
Ecumenical Institute of Heidelberg University extends invitation to common reflection
The Ecumenical Institute of Heidelberg University is hosting a dialogue around the topic of “hope” on 5 March 2026. Designed on the model of a World Café and organized by students and doctoral candidates, the event − entitled “Hope Café: What Kinds of Hope Do We Need Today?” − aims to promote exchange between the university and society. Held in English, it will take place at the Heidelberg Center for American Studies, Hauptstraße 120, beginning at 6pm. Entry is free of charge and does not require registration.
The Hope Café aims to create a safe space for shared reflection and discussion. It will focus on the question of what kinds of hope we need in light of the current crises in Europe. Perspectives from the humanities and theology meet everyday experiences. In this interactive discussion format, participants are invited to share their thoughts. The event lasts for about 90 minutes and is moderated by international master’s and doctoral students who are spending a week at the Ecumenical Institute working on the topic “Rediscovering Hope?”.
The Hope Café is part of a Blended Intensive Programme being conducted by Heidelberg University, together with the universities of Copenhagen, Milan, Geneva, and Prague, in the context of the 4EU+ European University Alliance. The aim of this 4EU+ call is to develop innovative teaching and learning formats in cooperation between at least three partner universities in the university alliance. In the Blended Intensive Programme “Rediscovering Hope? Theological and Literary Contributions to European Self-identification”, students explore the topic of hope against the backdrop of their own research projects. The program is funded in the framework of Erasmus+, which aims to enhance international student mobility.