Our Story

Our story began in 2023 when a few of us recognized a need for more churches in southeastern Virginia—and specifically, a church that was willing to do ministry differently. We knew that many people are turned off by the traditional, institutional church—but also that the message of Jesus is relevant and energizing for everyone, regardless of their background. We envisioned a place where people are not divided by politics or mean-spiritedness. We wanted a community of faith that remained focused on Christ and the hope that he offers, without being strident and judgmental.

Four of us started worshipping in a home. A little later, not wanting to be “out there on our own,” we sought a relationship with a new alliance of churches called ECO. This is a network of churches with roots in the Presbyterian tradition. We felt that our partnering with ECO would enable us to gain accountability, resources, and encouragement. (And we were right!) Soon thereafter, Church of the Living Hope was officially named.

As people heard about us and wanted to join us, we realized that we did not want to restrict who we are to the four walls of a building. So we opened our gathering to folks wanting to join us via a video connection— not just watch worship through a livestream, but be a part of worship, and a part of our community. This has been very exciting, as we have people join us from all over the US, even crossing time zones to worship with us. So, we have our base group meeting in a home, and we have others join via Google Meet. In 2025, as people responded so positively to Pastor Beth’s messages, we began posting those on YouTube, to extend our reach yet farther.

We are not exactly sure what the Lord has ahead for us. We know that the church in the U.S. is going through profound changes. We want to reach out to people who want to discover hope, grow, and become a part of a community of faith — that is what will never change about us. We hope you will try us out and discover that the Gospel of our Lord Jesus is relevant for your life today.