About

Click here to read Frequently Asked Questions

1236843_414508088655207_420551401_nHistory

The history of River of Hope church began on April 30, 2010 when a small group of people gathered for conversation, support and refreshment. The common denominator of the group was a desire to remain members of an ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) worshiping community. In July, a church service was held on the lawn of a local farm. People came, great food was provided and a service was conducted with Pastor Larry Strenge of the ELCA Synod giving the message. The second worship service took place in August at West River Park and again we had great fellowship, food and a meaningful message from Bishop Chilstrom. People stepped out in faith, volunteering to serve in a variety of ways and the congregation of Vineyard Methodist Church opened their doors to River of Hope allowing us to worship in their facility. At this point a part-time interim, Pastor Tom Heyd, joined us to lead worship and provide pastoral care. In November the ELCA Synod awarded River of Hope a $10,000 grant so we could become a Congregation Under Development. In January, 2011, we welcomed our first pastor and Mission Developer, Laura Aase. In October 2013, we relocated to our new space at the Hutchinson Event Center and began our now current and only worship time of 10:30am.

Leadership

Everything begins with a purpose! Please read our purpose and guiding principles.

Ministry Tables are one way we gather around doing some of the work and ministry at River of Hope. Everyone is invited to serve on a table, but only if you are passionate about the work of that table. (Lutheran, Catholic and other free- floating religious guilt is no reason to serve. If it brings you joy, then ask to participate.)

The tables are open. No need to be voted in or on. Just as we view the table in worship as open, these tables of service are always open to those wishing to participate.

Tables are places we gather to sit down, eat, play games, and contemplate our lives. Gathering around this image encourages us to take a deep breath, to look at what is before us as life-giving, important, and even joyful. We pray around tables of life and ask God to lead us into what God would have us do and be.

The Vision Table is made up of faithful leaders committed to God’s Word and to help others be partners in ministry. This group talks about detail and business things as well as dreaming and praying about God’s future for River of Hope.

If you are interested, please contact the leaders at the e-mail addresses below:

Vision:[email protected]

Financial Stewardship: Andy Evenson [email protected]

Worship and Music: Jim Nelson [email protected]

Parish Personnel: Nan Crary [email protected]

We Go Out: Kay Halstrom [email protected]

Faith Formation: Katie Weisenberger [email protected]

Gathering Table: Rachel Stearns [email protected]