The third conference in 1994, dealing with the 'status of health' of the Baltic Sea, gave birth to the idea that Theobalt should be something more than occasional conferences. With the acknowledgement of environment in the area as a common responsibility, the participants were challenged to find new ways to a joint Christian contribution to the building of the future Baltic society in general.

This vision became even clearer in Theobalt IV in 1998 when about 70 participants from 17 churches gathered in Visby. The theme "Folk churches in the Baltic region - their roots, culture and mission today and in the future laid foundation for a theological friendship among the churches in the area.

The Diocese of Visby was delegated to co-ordinate the work of building up the network. A steering group with representatives from the three church traditions has been set up. The purpose of this group is to set guidelines for the development of the network and discuss overall issues related to Theobalt. In addition, there are contact persons in the churches with the task to assist in the practical participation of their own church.

Churches affiliated to the network are to be found in two spheres:
1) those rooted in a national culture, thus making a definite contribution to the national identity,
2) those having more or less a minority status, but indisputably adhering to the specified Christian traditions.

Being entrusted with the task to promote the network, the diocesan board of Visby has adopted a project and financing plan for the period 2001 - 2004. In this plan three main fields for the development of the network are defined:
1) Dialogues/Meetings between people;
2) Education;
3) Communication.