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On Sunday, November 9, more than 325 people gathered at Hope Central Campus for a Congregational Meeting. President Kristina Giffin opened the meeting at noon and introduced Pat O'Dell for the first order of business - the announcement of the Matching Challenge Results.
A generous group of donors had offered a pool of $325,000 as a gift to the Hope South Campus Building Fund if the congregation could raise a corresponding $325,000. This would have added $650,000 to the Hope South Campus Building Fund.
Hope members and friends felt led to rise to that challenge in generous and unbelievable fashion!
Horns blew, streamers popped from above, and the congregation rose to their feet as the number raised was displayed - $1,500,759!
Pastor Jon-Marc led the congregation in the singing of the doxology, and he and Pastor Rani lifted prayers and praise to the Lord for this generous outpouring. We give thanks to The Lord for his leading, and to all who joined in this endeavor.
Treasurer Mike Brown presented the 2026 Budget* and explained the due diligence that encouraged various ministries and teams to reduce budget requests. He explained there will likely be another person added to staff. After questions and brief discussion, the 2026 Budget was passed.
Bob O'Dell presented the Worship Center Budget.* He explained that Hope now has a signed contract with Mark Cook Builders. Additionally, Bob, Dale Fiet, Architect Judd Dickerson and representatives from Cook Builders had a positive pre-construction meeting with The Villages. Hope's loan with Mission Investment Fund (MIF) has been approved, and Hope expects to close on the loan in early December.
The Holy Spirit is moving mightily in the midst of Hope Lutheran Church!
*Both of these budgets have been presented in previous News in the Pews.
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