There’s a place in our community where people come together every week to share stories, lend a hand or simply be present for one another. It’s a familiar sight on Main Street in our town; the Hope United Church of Christ.
One Saturday morning, I attended the church’s weekly pancake breakfast and met some of the congregants. What struck me was the loving and supportive environment that they had cultivated within the walls of the church. They call it a “community” and it’s not just something they say casually, it’s genuinely what they believe and what they have created.
The church was founded on the principles that everyone is welcome and there is love and acceptance for all who enter. As the pastor explained to me, “We don’t care about your religion or your politics, we just want you to feel like you are part of something bigger than yourself.” For me, it was clear that this church embodies the very best of what a community should be.
At the heart of Hope United Church of Christ is a deep desire to be of service to others. They are involved in several outreach programs, and members show up regularly to volunteer their time and resources. They believe in being the change they wish to see in the world, and by doing so, they have become a beacon of hope in our community.
It’s comforting to know that a place like Hope United Church of Christ exists. A place where everyone is valued and welcomed with open arms. A place where hope and love are the guiding principles.
