In the spring of 2005, Leonard Rodgers, president and founder of Venture International, described the possibility of bringing evangelical leaders from the Middle East to America.  His single purpose would be for American evangelical leaders to better understand the church and the people of the Middle East.  His goal was to develop relationships and partnerships for new ministry opportunities.

When Leonard Rodgers shared this dream with several colleagues, they agreed to join him in making SOUNDS OF HOPE a reality.  As a result, a Coordinating Committee was formed to plan and present this unprecedented event.

COORDINATING COMMITTEE

 MR. LEONARD RODGERS

President/Founder, Venture International

DR. LON ALLISON

Executive Director, The Billy Graham Center, Wheaton College

DR. RAY BAKKE

Executive Director, International Urban Associates

DR. GARY BURGE

Professor of New Testament, Wheaton College

MR. DANIEL HOCKLANDER

Vice President/Chief Operating Officer, Venture International

MR. DOUGLAS R. ROSS

President Emeritus, Evangelical Christian Publishers Association