In his travels around the world, our founder Billy Graham met many leaders who were influential in their own spheres but disconnected from each other. In 1974 the First International Congress on World Evangelization took place in Lausanne, Switzerland, under the premise that in collaboration these leaders could do much more than by themselves. Thus began a movement of connections marked by a spirit of humility, friendship, prayer, study, partnership, and hope which Graham called 'The Spirit of Lausanne'. 

It is in this spirit that we press on towards accelerating global mission as we set the table for influencers and leaders from every corner of the world to deeply engage with one another and collaborate over pressing missional ideas. Together we seek to fulfil the Great Commission guided by our fourfold vision:

• The gospel for every person

• Disciple-making churches for every people and place

• Christlike leaders for every church and sector

• Kingdom impact in every sphere of society

We are thrilled to have you share in this fourfold vision with us and are thankful for the unique gifts you bring to the table.

Perhaps there is no better person to answer the question ‘Why does Lausanne exist?’ than Billy Graham himself. I encourage you to take a trip back in time to read his opening address delivered at the First Lausanne Congress in 1974, ‘Why Lausanne?’. This message is just as much for you today as it was for those who heard it back then.