The Stimme der Hoffnung (Voice of Hope) radio station held a festive church service on June 14, 2008, to celebrate its 60th anniversary. The celebration took place on the premises of the new Adventist Media Center "Stimme der Hoffnung" in Alsbach-Hähnlein near Darmstadt, Germany. More than 230 former staff members as well as "Zivis" - persons doing “civil” or community work instead of military service - gathered with their families to participate in this special event.

During the first part of the church service, which was broadcast live via satellite and web-casting, Matthias Müller, the current manager of the Stimme der Hoffnung, interviewed former directors of the institution, Heinz Hopf, Arno Patzke, and Günther Machel. Then the two Buser brothers from Basel, Switzerland, who joined the well-known Stimme der Hoffnung radio quartet in 1948, gave the audience a little insight into the beginning of the radio work that took place at that time. Next, Lothar Klepp focused on the importance of the early activities of the "Friedensauer Bildstelle" (Friedensau Picture Service), which was located in the former German Democratic Republic. The Stimme der Hoffnung initially developed independently in the western and eastern parts of Germany.

The former managers were highly impressed by the team spirit and the commitment shown by the past and present staff members. This dedication has been essential to the success of the Stimme der Hoffnung.

The children’s story, illustrated by a perfect roping down operation in the television studios, fascinated youngsters and adults alike! The key address, presented by Matthias Müller, focused on the self-image and the tasks of the Stimme der Hoffnung, which has become a prominent European media center.

Staff from the "Hope Channel ®", the International Bible Study Institute (IBSI), the audio library for the blind, and the Adventist Media shared their projects, highlighting the future challenges of Adventist media work.

The festive service was followed by an afternoon of fellowship. The guests were given the opportunity to have a closer look at the new media center building.

By providing a wide range of media services, Stimme der Hoffnung encourages people to personally study the Bible and become acquainted with Jesus Christ. Stimme der Hoffnung is mainly funded through donations. It is an institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. [Editor: Birgit Kiepe-Grigat for APD]