Our History
New Hope Presbyterian Church began its journey as a beacon of unity and hope in 2007, emerging as a chartered church within the Presbytery of Los Ranchos by December 2017. It stands as the first successful African American new church development in over half a century within the Synod of Southern California and Hawaii. This achievement was the fruition of a 40-year dream, leveraging resources from the dissolution of two churches to plant a vibrant African American congregation in Orange County—a community with a mere 2.3% African American population according to the 2020 Census. We extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible members of the probe team, whose unwavering dedication and hard work transformed aspirations into reality:
Rev. Dr. Don and Marionette Oliver, Margaret Hullett, George and Polly Johnson, Mark Jones, Rev. Leon Fanniel, Barbara Murphy, and Rev. Steve Yamaguchi.
A Diverse and Evolving Community
From its inception, New Hope has continuously evolved, embracing its identity as a multi-ethnic, multi-generational worship community. It uniquely blends the rich traditions of African American worship with a welcoming atmosphere for people of all ethnicities and cultures. This inclusive environment fosters safety, belonging, and the nurturing of relationships founded on trust and mutual respect, all deeply grounded in God’s love and salvation.
A New Chapter: Merging and Transforming
In 2023, New Hope embraced a new chapter by merging with St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church. This union symbolizes the coming together of New Hope’s dynamic energy and St. Paul’s enduring legacy, creating a vibrant, Christ-centered community of praise, prayer, and music. This merger is not just a blending of congregations but a transformative journey, as we actively listen to God’s call for our future and work together to reimagine our church property.
A Community Where You Matter
At New Hope Presbyterian Church, every individual matters. We are committed to building a church that is not just a place of worship but a home where everyone can find their voice, feel valued, and experience a profound sense of belonging. As we move forward, we invite you to join us in this journey of faith, transformation, and community. Together, we strive to be a beacon of hope, unity, and love in Orange County and beyond.