Program
All events of the Days of Hope from June 8 – 11, 2026 at a glance.
The program is amazing: We’ve invited over 12 different speakers to give talks and lead discussions on a wide range of topics related to Christian hope. Of course, art and music play a vital role in this; you can really enjoy yourself at the open mic, concert night, and [C]Rave.
Every day, we have an exciting lineup of activities (support program) planned for you. Feel free to drop by anytime for a game of volleyball, a round of human foosball, or ladder golf. Our chill lounge is also open daily, offering the perfect spot to escape the stress of everyday uni life for an hour or two 😎.
We care deeply about international students. We provide translation services for all events at KIT. We’ve also put together a special program just for you international students. From Monday through Wednesday, there are German classes using the Bible at 3:45 p.m. Each day, these are followed by short presentations on German culture at 5:45 p.m.
Would you prefer an overview in list form? Then you can find the program overview as a list here
Program Overview as List
Monday
June 8
Panel Discussion: Doing Life Together – How Do Relationships Thrive?
In a world where communication is increasingly taking place digitally, it is often difficult to truly see the people around us and form deeper relationships with them. Whether its with peers, partners, or parents, we have lost the ability to acknowledge one another. In this talk, you'll gain fascinating insights into the world of psychology and empathy that underlies your relationships, and you'll have the opportunity to get answers to your personal questions!
German Course with Bible
This free German course is for anyone who wants to learn German more intensively. There, you can improve your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation using a familiar passage from the Bible. You're more than welcome—no matter how good your German is.
Short Talk: Knigge - Good manners
Every culture has its unwritten rules. This presentation deals with the question of which behavior is seen positive in Germany and what should be avoided.
Michael Sternkopf: What Really Makes Me Happy? – A Former Bayern Munich Soccer Professional Shares His Story
Are you wondering what a truly fulfilling life looks like? How can you lead a successful life after university? Does one need to make a career, or are there other factors? Former Karlsruher and FC Bayern soccer professional Michael Sternkopf answers these questions and more. In this talk, you'll learn what has driven him throughout his career and where he finds happiness!
Tuesday
June 9
Panel Discussion: How Do I Cope With Stressful Times?
A question that particularly affects us students: How do I deal with stress and pressure in a healthy way? In a round with an interim manager, who previously held the leadership of European controlling for an American corporation, Carsten Feichtinger, as well as Pastor Steffen Beck and Lukas Reppert, you will gain valuable insights into how they deal with full schedules and performance under pressure.
German Course with Bible
This free German course is for anyone who wants to learn German more intensively. There, you can improve your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation using a familiar passage from the Bible. You're more than welcome—no matter how good your German is.
Short Talk: Tenancy in Germany
Nearly every student in Germany rents an apartment. But what should you keep in mind when renting? Fynn will explain this in his short talk. We will cover everything, from finding an apartment to moving out. As always, there will be plenty of time for socialising and conversations, with snacks and drinks provided — and the chance to continue discussing the topic of rent.
Assuming There Is a God, Why the God of the Bible of All Gods?
It is by no means self-evident that a God exists. Contested, doubted, also justifiable? Let's say hypothetically, he exists. Why would it be the christian God? Just out of convenience because that's how we were socialized? What about the gods from other religions? So if God, why this one: arguments and an invitation to discussion. With Prof. Dr. Matthias Clausen, Ev. Hochschule Tabor (Marburg) and Institut für Glaube und Wissenschaft (IGUW). A speaker at universities throughout Germany. Married, three children. He likes: good questions, black coffee, and computers that don't crash.)
Wednesday
June 10
German Course with Bible
This free German course is for anyone who wants to learn German more intensively. There, you can improve your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation using a familiar passage from the Bible. You're more than welcome—no matter how good your German is.
Short Talk: Taboos in Germany
Taboos are cultural norms that prohibit certain actions within a society. In this short talk, Harald will share stories of his encounters with internationals where taboos became visible. As always, there will be plenty of time for fellowship and conversation, with snacks and drinks provided — and the chance to continue discussing taboos.
Science and Faith – A Contradiction or Not?
What does a habilitated physicist and top researcher in nanotechnology actually say about the topic of faith? Is God not dead, as Nietzsche stated? Prof. Dr. Thomas Schimmel from KIT offers fascinating insights into the intersecting worlds of rigorous science and faith-based belief - two very different domains.
[C]Rave
Lecture tomorrow morning? Who cares! The lecture is every week, but the party at the Forum Meadow is only today! Dancing to drinks and a live DJ at the Forum Meadow is a different way to get away from the university routine. *And David danced before the Lord with all his might, wearing a priestly garment.* *2. Samuel 6, 14*
Thursday
June 11
Sabine Mickenbecker: What Sustains Us When Everything Falls Apart? – My Approach to Suffering
Many know the story of the Reallife Guys, YouTubers, siblings and children of a loving mother. But what if this world falls apart? Within a few years, Sabine Mickenbecker experiences what it is like to first lose her daughter in a plane crash and then one of her sons to cancer. How does she process such losses? How does she find a way to deal with so much suffering? And where does she find hope to this day, despite these experiences? In this lecture, you have the opportunity to hear firsthand what has brought her comfort in life and how great suffering can be processed very personally.
Panel Discussion: What Does Hope Mean?
In a time of great uncertainty and many unanswered questions, it is easy to lose hope. The younger generation in particular faces great challenges, ranging from rapid climate change to new types of geopolitical conflicts. Is there any reason for optimism in the face of all these challenges? And how can one, on a personal level, perhaps still find hope? Jannis Winkels and Gernot Elsner reflect on this question and provide insights into how they themselves are dealing with the crises of our time, and how one can still be a bearer of hope.
Live Concert with Samuel Knospe
Samuel Knospes music is driven by one desire: To connect people with the living God! He authentically blends musical styles with profound lyrics that speak of a life built on a solid foundation. "For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (Romans 6:11)