While churches have distinct differences, the Cross is a universal symbol found in Christian Churches throughout the world.  The Cross doesn't point of the uniqueness of a local church, but to the special person & work of Jesus Christ. Of all that the Apostle Paul taught to the Church at Corinth, he wrote that the most important thing was "that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures" (1 Cor.15:3). Paul also wrote "may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Gal. 6:14). Churches have differences, but our common need and message should be centered on Jesus - his death for our sins, & his resurrection life.  Jesus should be our boast.   

  

Jesus made many claims about his uniqueness, inclduing his claim: "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). He also prayed this for his disciples in John 17:17: "Sanctify them by the truth; your Word is truth."   Truth is vitally important.  We live in an era where our understanding of truth has moved away from something that is fixed, objective, and applicable to all; & toward a 'truth' that is personal, intutive, and relative. What is "true for me" is popular thought today.  But you, nor I, am the source of truth.  Ultimately, God is Truth & He has revealed truth to us in His Son, and in his Word.  An important part knowing & growing in a faith in Christ, is grounding that faith in the Scriptures.  Our teaching & preaching is well-studied and rooted in Scripture.

 

Relationships are also an important part of Christian growth. The New Testament scriptures describe the church with the metaphors: "body", "family","bride", & "building."  These express strong relational & functional bonds - both with Christ and the church family members.  As we are currently small in number, we don't offer a lot of programs, but we do offer a loving fellowship.

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Most importantly, we offer Jesus.  Jesus was & is unique.  He is God incarnate; "the word become flesh" (John 1:14).  John's Gospel also writes that he was full of both truth and grace (1:14,17).  Jesus  didn't compromise truth. In fact, he was hated because he spoke the truth - truth that people didn't want to hear. But also gave incredible grace, including his words on the cross to those who crucified him, saying: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:44).  Jesus hasn't changed. He still calls to truth, and in so doing, receive grace.  We are a church of people who need truth & grace. You need it also.  Jesus still offers it to us.

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A bit about our Pastor: Dennis & Mary Cupery came to pastor Hope Alive in the summer of 2015.  Dennis pastored previously in Harbor Beach, MI for 16 years, & in Holland, MI for 12 years. Mary is a Music teacher and serves as our worship leader. We love our church family here at Hope Alive.  Outside of work, we enjoy God's creation together in many ways. We believe Jesus Christ is all He claimed to be and we welcome all  to investigate and / or worship Him here. "We proclaim Him, admonishing and  teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone complete in Christ" (Col. 1:28).