Members of the community gathered this morning as New Testament House of Prayer hosted the Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce Community Coffee at Hebrews 11:1. The morning brought together locals, Chamber members, church goers, along with community supporters for a time of fellowship and connection.

Guests enjoyed an array of refreshments, including Hebrews’ specialty coffee and lemonade, along with bagels, pinwheels, muffins, fresh fruit, vegetables, chips and dips, croissants, and more.

Executive Director of the Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce, Christy Burns shared her appreciation for New Testament House of Prayer and their continued involvement in the community.

“We are always grateful for opportunities to bring our community together and highlight the people and organizations that help make Hope special,” Burns said. “New Testament House of Prayer has a long history here, and it was wonderful to see so many come together to learn more about their ministry, their mission, and the work they continue to do throughout our community.”

Pastor Christopher Smith said hosting the Community Coffee was an opportunity to further introduce the church and its mission to the community.

“We’re having today’s coffee to really introduce ourselves to the community and share who we are,” Smith said. “We’re glad to be a part of the Chamber of Commerce. New Testament House of Prayer has been in this area for over 30 to 40 years. My father was the previous pastor and led the church for over 40 years before he passed in 2020. After that, my wife and I stepped into leadership, and we have been blessed with great relationships throughout the community.”

Smith said the timing of the event felt meaningful and was an opportunity to showcase the work the church continues to do beyond its walls.

“I think this was well overdue, but I also believe timing is everything, and God has His own timing,” Smith said. “We’re excited about what we’re doing in the community and the direction we’re moving. Our ministry is out feeding the homeless, working with individuals with disabilities, and serving in many different areas. We have a wonderful ministry team and are looking forward to expanding that work even further.”

Smith shared that future goals include continued community outreach, including work involving boys and girls’ homes, assisting the elderly, and finding additional ways to serve those in need.

“This will be our sixth year serving in leadership at the church, and we continue to move forward as God continues to bless us in a tremendous way,” Smith said. “We’re excited about it. We’re glad to be a part of the community, and we’re thankful the community is getting to know us in this way.”

New Testament House of Prayer is located at 306 N. Ferguson St. in Hope. The church looks forward to continuing its mission of service, outreach, and building relationships throughout the community.