July 25, 2025

Revitalization of House of Hope

House of Hope, a Christian-based drug and alcohol rehabilitation center for men, has recently purchased land in Wildwood and built a new facility that will house up to 20 men.

Former Hope Council President Len Robertson currently serves on the House of Hope board, and would like to invite any interested members of the Hope family to consider volunteering your time to support this worthy ministry.

If you are interested in being part of an exciting and highly rewarding ministry that directly changes lives, please contact Len Robertson at (612) 669-5680 or email lvrobertson@aol.com.

True North VBS: A Week of Faith, Fun, and Following Jesus!

What a joyful and spirit-filled week we’ve had at our True North Vacation Bible School! From July 14 - 18, our church was filled with the laughter, energy, and curiosity of 35 children who came eager to learn, play, and discover what it means to follow Jesus—our True North. 

Throughout the week, our young adventurers were guided through Bible lessons, songs, games, crafts, and meaningful conversations that pointed them toward the truth that Jesus is our constant guide in an ever-changing world. They learned that no matter where life takes us, we can trust in God to lead us on the right path. 

This incredible week would not have been possible without the dedication and love of our 35 amazing volunteers. From decorating and leading songs to preparing snacks, organizing crafts, teaching lessons, and offering behind-the-scenes support, every one of you made a lasting impact. You planted seeds of faith and modeled the love of Christ in ways that will stay with these children for years to come. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus. 

We also look forward to staying connected with our VBS families through our Awesome God Squad—a fun and faith-filled mailing sent out every 4 to 6 weeks with devotionals, activities, and encouragement for our children as they grow in faith throughout the year. 

And we’re already looking ahead to next summer! Mark your calendars for VBS 2026 from July 13 - 17: Rainforest Falls – Exploring God’s Creation, where we’ll dive into the wonder of the natural world and discover how God’s fingerprints are everywhere! 

To all who gave their time, shared their talents, and lifted this ministry in prayer—thank you. You helped make Christ known in the lives of our children, and we celebrate this moment of joyful discipleship with grateful hearts."

Don't Miss Saxophone Recording Artist Eirinn Abu!

World-renowned saxophone recording artist Eirinn Abu is coming to Hope Lutheran Church!

Friday, August 15 at 6:00pm

Hope Central Campus

Registration is $15 per person. You can register online now by clicking the link below.

Eirinn Abu began his journey with the saxophone at the age of 10 in Maryland, where his passion for the instrument quickly overshadowed all else, marking the start of his evolution into an extraordinary musician. His passion and hard work culminated in his debut smooth jazz album, graced by the Miami Sound Machine's accompaniment and Jon Secada's songwriting. To experience his music, visit www.eirinnabu.com. 

Hope's Next New Member Orientation

We invite you to participate in the next step of the membership process by attending Hope’s New Member Orientation. Orientation will be held on two consecutive Wednesdays - August 27 & September 3 - from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at Hope Central Campus. New members must attend both orientations.

We have three levels of membership - voting, associate, and seasonal. For more information on membership options, please visit our website by clicking here.

Questions? Contact Mary Beth at marybeth@hope4all.church or by phone at (352) 750-2321. Deadline to submit paperwork is Friday, August 22.

Lutheran World Relief School Kits

With August being a tax-free month for school supplies, please consider purchasing items to support Lutheran World Relief School Kits.

The Women of Hope have 90 back packs ready to be filled and sent not only overseas but also within the United States where there is a need. The children overseas cannot attend school unless they have these supplies, and many families cannot afford them.

Each of the 90 kits includes 4 notebooks, 5 pens, 5 pencils and 1 of each item listed below. There will be a location at all three campuses where you may drop them off during the month of August, and we will take care of the rest. (The Hope Central Campus location will be in the Information Hallway). Thank you for your support and generosity for this very special project. 

We are seeking the following items:

• 70 page wide or college ruled notebooks
• Wood rulers with both inches and metric
• Ink pens, blue or black ink (no gel pens please)
• 2 ½ inch erasers
• Unsharpened pencils, #2 lead
• Sharpener
• Scissors with round blunt edges
• Box of 16 or 24 crayons

If you choose to make a donation, please make the check out to Hope Lutheran Church and on the memo line write LWR School Kits. If there are any questions, call LaVera Wiberg (LWR Coordinator, Women of Hope) at (352) 205-6410.

The Rock at Lake Weir Middle School - Can YOU Help?

What's The Rock? The Rock is a resource pantry changing lives for students at Lake Weir Middle School.

The Need: A number of our regular volunteers are going to have surgery and will not be able to volunteer.

When: Mondays 8/18, 8/25, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22 from 11:15am until 1:00pm.

How: If you could help, contact Fred O'Brien at fobrien@gate.net or call or text him at (352) 250-3814. It could change a life... Maybe even your own!

Take a Video Tour of The Rock!

A Rock Report:

43 students came to us for help on Friday. First time visitors are always amazed when they find out that everything is free. One new boy asked, "If I take a can of soup could I get cereal too?" He was told to look at the big bags the other children were filling and reminded of rules 2 - don't be greedy, and rule 3 - take what you need. He left with food, clothing, shoes, hygiene products and the biggest smile!

Today's love story comes from Colleen:

As I struck up a conversation with an eighth grade girl named Breanna today, I learned that her family and mine come from two very different worlds. Her mother, when she isn't homeless or in jail, lives in a motel room. She sends Breanna gifts to try to buy her love since the student wants nothing to do with her. Breanna says, "I wish she would save her money instead of buying me gifts so she could get herself an apartment to live in."

The mother was abusive to her children in the past. For many years, Breanna lived with grandparents until her grandfather died and grandma was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. During this time, she helped raise five younger siblings, some belonging to dad and some belonging to mom. She now lives with dad and his current wife and their daughter. Her hope is that dad and step mom stay together so her stepsister can be raised by two parents.

I asked her how she is so sensible and well-spoken under all these circumstances. Her response,"I found God and He helps me."

I never cease to be amazed by the students that visit The Rock. I have learned so much from students like Breanna. May God bless her everyday!

Why do we try to have 5 volunteers every day? It is important to be able talk and listen to children like Breanna!

Blessing Bag Ministry Needs Your Help!

The Blessing Bag Ministry is looking for folks to help assemble these gift bags for the homeless.

We gather on the first Friday of every month in the Hope Central Campus Conference Room at noon and usually finish by 1:00pm. Thanks to your generous donations, we have supplies for many bags – what we could use now are folks to help us sort and assemble those donations into Blessing Bags.

Our next get-together will be on Friday, August 1. You do not have to sign up, just show up! Please contact Pam Bixler at jlbixler@embarqmail.com if you have any questions.   

Looking to donate? Our immediate needs for donations are small deodorants, protein bars, combs, and inflatable water bottles.

Back to School Shoe & Backpack Drive

There is a great need in our community to support local children as they return to school. Many do not have access to new shoes...and many will be forced to return to school with ruined or ill-fitting shoes. 

During the month of July, the Hope Lake Weir Campus Food Pantry is sponsoring a Back to School Shoe & Backpack Drive for the children who come to the Food Pantry and attend Marion County schools. Shoes & backpacks will be distributed in early August, right before school starts. 

If you would like to make a donation, please make checks payable to the Hope Lutheran Church and indicate Shoe Drive on the memo line. You could also use an envelope to direct a cash donation. 

Every donation counts as we continue to support these deserving children. Thank you for your generosity!

It's Christmas in July!

Help the Women of Hope Support the Infant & Toddler Pantry in Summerfield

Collecting from July 1 to 31

Your Generosity Makes a Difference All Year Round

The Women of Hope are thrilled to announce a heartfelt initiative to help support vulnerable infants and toddlers in the area. The Infant and Toddler Pantry in Summerfield helps to ensure families in need have access to essential clothes and supplies for their little ones, and your help can make a real difference.

What Are We Collecting for the Pantry?

We are seeking donations of:

• Baby sunblock, shampoo, ointments, lotions, and wipes
• Children's shoes (6 mo thru Toddler) boxed or not boxed
• Clothing for infants and toddlers (new or gently used)
• Crib sheets, rattles, toys and books
• Baby layette essentials

How Can You Help?

You can contribute in one of the following ways during the month of July:

• Drop-off Donations at all three campuses during the weekend services. 
• Plus, a donation bin is available at Hope Central Campus
• Larger items to donate? Leave a message for Randi Brown at (352) 355-9280 and we will get back to you.

Why Your Support Matters

Every donation helps us provide critical resources to families who are struggling to make ends meet. Together, we can ensure that every child has access to basic necessities that support their growth, health, and happiness.

Thank you for your support! The Women of Hope Mission Team truly appreciate your help.

Worship Attendance for July 19-20, 2025

Hope Central Campus:

4:00pm - 170

6:00pm - 43

8:00am - 90

10:00am - 222

Online:

4:00pm - 120

10:00am - 238

10:00am (HLWC) - 29

Hope Lake Weir Campus:

10:00am - 136

Hope at the Everglades Rec Center:

8:00am - 81

10:00am - 99

This Weekend's Worship Bulletin

Click the button to view this weekend's worship bulletin for traditional services.

Inform the Church of Visitation Needs

Do you know of someone who needs a visit from a Hope pastor? Please call the church office at (352) 750-2321 and let us know. Our Pastoral Care Team would love to visit with you or your loved one.

Submit a Prayer Request

Need Prayer? Submit a prayer request via our hope4all.church website.