Over the past few months we’ve been talking a lot about our vision: to reach the Triangle and change the world. So many of you have made it obvious that you’re on board and have already stepped up to be a part of this vision, which we’re incredibly grateful for. We are all part of the body, which is why it’s so important that we’re all on the same page and working towards the same goals in order to impact the Kingdom.

We constantly hear stories of transformation at Hope, especially when people begin to serve. Stories that are real, encouraging and from the heart. Would you like to hear how serving on First Impressions creates transformation in the lives of our volunteers and in those being served? Our volunteers speak for themselves in a recent video!

Do you currently serve on First Impressions or are ready to start? There are no obligations, simply come to Hope’s First Impressions Kick Off on Saturday, February 4, 2012 from 8:30am-12:30pm at the Raleigh campus. Both returning and new volunteers will have the opportunity to select or sample a team that interests them. Attendees will be given campus specific training and the chance to see just how small a big church can feel when a part of a team.

What is the first step? Register for the Kick Off online and ultimately learn what it means to be a part of First Impressions, where God’s love is experienced through ordinary people. (Acts 4:13)

Have you ever wondered why people get baptized? There are so many misconceptions about the purpose of baptism. To be clear, getting baptized will not get you into heaven. Like wearing a wedding ring signifies that you’re married, baptism signifies that we trust Jesus is God’s Son and there is nothing we can do to earn salvation apart from Him.

Just as baptism proclaims God’s grace in our lives, there is also an aspect of obedience tied to it. In Acts 22:16, Jesus says, “What are you waiting for? Get up and be baptized. Have your sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord.”

If you have a relationship with Christ but have never been baptized, we’re here to reiterate what Jesus asked … What are you waiting for? Receive details and sign up online.

Earlier this month, many of you answered this calling to baptism and proclaimed what you believe at the Raleigh Campus. We pray that God uses each one of you to make an impact on His kingdom … at Hope, within the Triangle and throughout the world.

Have you been baptized? Share your stories with us below!

As many of you know, the mission of Hope Community Church is to love people where they are and encourage them to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

How can you be a part of this mission?

1. Live what you learn.
2. Serve where your gifted.
3. Connect with others.
4. Give from your resources.
5. Share what Jesus has done for you.

It all starts with one church. And you. Thank you for helping to reach the Triangle and change the world.

It’s a new year. A fresh, new opportunity to “let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Let’s discover how to do this together.

We have food, shelter, clothing, clean drinking water and more. And we are rich in the hope that is found in knowing Jesus. Pastor Mike challenges us to occupy this hope with generosity towards all who are still in need of it.