New to Hope

We’re Glad You’re Here and Welcome to Hope! 

We don’t think it’s any accident that you’re interested in learning more about Hope. In fact, we’ve been praying for you! We are a church with a crystal-clear mission from God to reach out to the world around us and share the everlasting love of Jesus Christ! That mission is at the heart of everything we do and everything we offer. With six campuses and eight Local Sites (and opportunities to join us online), there is a place for you at Hope! 

New to Hope top image CJH

“If you are looking for a perfect church, you’ve come to the wrong place. Hope is far closer to a ‘hospital for sinners’ than a ‘hangout for saints.’ We are a not a country club, a chamber of commerce or a church that puts politics before Jesus. Our primary purpose is not to point people to this church – we exist to point people to the God of this church. So, take your time. Look around. Be our guest! And just ask if you have any questions.”

–Mike Housholder, senior pastor

Our Story 

The story of Hope begins in the early 90s. While Lutheran Church of Hope has had miraculous growth since then, we truly believe the most exciting days are ahead! Perhaps this is the point where God begins to write you into the Hope story. Please know that we believe it’s no accident you are here – God has led you to Hope for a reason. We’ve been praying for you, asking God to bring whoever he wills into this Christ-centered, Spirit-led, Bible-based community. 

Empty and quiet Worship Center with sunlight streaming through the windows

Get Involved at Hope!

Ongoing Classes and Events

Sign up for Alpha, an opportunity to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed, non-threatening manner during thought-provoking weekly sessions. Or join us for a midweek opportunity for adults, every Wednesday night at 6:00 pm in the Chapel at the West Des Moines campus, called Hope Wednesdays for Adults. There are also many different book studies, both in person and online, where you can explore your faith in a deeper way. 

Small Groups

“We’re better together!” We tend to say that a lot around here, and we say it because it’s true. God created us to live in community with one another (not to try to figure it all out by ourselves). The purpose of small groups is to bring people together in growing, Christ-centered relationships. These groups we call Hope Groups are small groups of Christ-followers who meet regularly to grow relationships, study God’s Word and serve the world around them. 

Youth and Family

Through dynamic teaching, worship and activities, our hope is to reach kids with the love of Jesus and teach them all we can about him! We want them to know God made them, that he is their friend, and that they can be real and honest with him. Hope offers weekly programs for kids of all ages: HopeKids (age 3-grade 5), PowerLife (grades 6-8) and Ignition (grades 9-12). 

There’s Something for Everyone!

  • 50+ 
  • Women 
  • Men 
  • Kairos for College Students 
  • REVIVE Young Adult Ministry 
  • Engaged & Married 
  • Parenting 
  • Hope Sports 
  • Support Groups 
  • Creative Arts  
  • Prayer 
  • Missions 
  • Hope en Español 
  • One Body Special Needs 

There are so many ways to get involved and find your place at Hope through various ministries and groups! They were created to help you grow in your relationship with God and equip you with the tools you need to live the amazing life God has in store for you. Get connected at the Hope location nearest you! 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are new to Christianity or new to Hope, you can stop by the New to Hope area in the church lobby or call or email the church office and someone would love to help you get connected! Hope also offers several classes and opportunities to learn more about Christianity and being a member of Hope.

Everyone is warmly welcomed into the various classes, groups, studies and events, regardless of whether you are a church member. 

Descriptions of all opportunities are available on the Classes page. Please take a few minutes to register for the classes that you plan to attend. By doing so, you help our teams adequately prepare so we can provide you with appropriate materials, accommodations and childcare. 

Yes. We hope you will make yourself at home at any of our campuses and Local Sites and take full advantage of what’s offered. 

Childcare is offered at all services (infants-age 3) and for many classes and events (infants-age 11). Please check the individual class pages online to find the details. To ensure the safety and well-being of the children in Hope’s care, we take great care to staff the nursery appropriately. To guarantee the availability of childcare for your child(ren), please preregister for classes. Unfortunately, space is limited. When registering, please indicate the names and ages of your children needing care. Walk-ins will be warmly welcomed as space allows. 

Childcare for infants-age 3 is offered at all services and for many classes and events. The nursery opens 15 minutes prior to the start of events and worship. 

Yes! Watch messages from previous weekend’s services at hopeonline.tv or YouTube

Yes, at Hope West Des Moines, assistive listening devices can be found at the Connect, Grow, Serve area in the Atrium. Check with your campus to learn more about assistive listening options at that location.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Join us at Hope West Des Moines before or after any service under the orange New to Hope sign for a free Hope T-shirt and to talk with one of our Hope Ambassadors who can answer your questions or point you to the right people for answers. Or fill out this New to Hope form and we’ll get you connected!