In early 1998 a small
nucleus of families with a vision to begin a new church began meeting in New
Albany Elementary School. Over the course of the next few months they
studied God's word and prayed for his leadership in this endeavor. By the
end of the first year, a body of believers had formed around a common faith and
philosophy of ministry, appointed a leadership team, and established themselves
in rented facilities they could call their own.
Like many church plants, the
community at New Hope attracted a variety of people from many walks of life and
different faith backgrounds. The challenges of being a young congregation
and working to develop deeper roots caused growth through trial and triumph.
The body continued to coalesce and mature as they sought to honor God in
their relationships, become more gospel-centered, advance the good news of
Jesus Christ, engage the world, and establish a more permanent presence in
their neighborhood.
With God's enablement and
congregational commitment, the church family was able to purchase land in 2001,
build a structure in 2005, and pay off their mortgage in 2009. While a
building is a wonderful asset to ministry, the lifeblood of the church is its
continued love for God and desire to see him glorified in all aspects of life
together. As a congregation of sinners redeemed by the grace of God, we
look forward to see what God will do through us to glorify himself and advance
his kingdom.