WL Fire Station New Hope Community Church began in October 1972 with a bold vision. Standing on the roof of a snack shack at the 82nd Avenue Drive-in Theater, founding pastor Dale Galloway shared his dream of a church that would reach thousands of unchurched people—a place where anyone, no matter their past, could find hope and belonging.

New Hope was a church on the move for ten years, meeting in daycares, gyms, movie theaters, and Warner Pacific College. The motto was clear: “Pioneers, not settlers.” As the church grew, Dale reminded everyone, “It is not the size nor the site that makes a church great, but the Spirit of God’s love.”

In 1981, New Hope opened its first building, quickly outgrowing it and expanding again by 1987. For nearly 40 years, this 125,000-square-foot facility was home to life-changing ministries, including recovery programs, divorce care, and innovative small groups that influenced churches nationwide.

A Bold Move Toward the Future

In 2015, John Rosensteel became the Lead Pastor, bringing fresh vision and direction. By 2018, New Hope had taken a bold step of faith: selling its building to free the church to fulfill its mission more faithfully.

Then came 2020. The church planned to relocate to Clackamas High School, but when COVID hit, those plans changed. Instead, in April 2020, Mt. Scott Church of God approached New Hope about buying their building. By January 2021, the two churches officially became one family, and the first in-person gatherings were held in the new location a month later.

A three-year remodeling project followed, culminating in November 2023, creating a space for continued ministry and growth.

Better Together: A New Chapter

During this time, New Hope formed a strategic partnership with Willamette Christian Church, working closely together for three years. This partnership led to a full merger with Willamette Christian Church, Hope City Church, and Beaverton Christian Church. With this transition, John Rosensteel stepped into a leadership role across all locations, and Michael Stern became Lead Pastor at New Hope.

Looking Ahead

New Hope continues to reach the unchurched and help people turn their attention toward God. Though locations have changed, the heart of New Hope remains the same: a church where everyone belongs, lives are transformed, and God’s love is made known.

New Hope is committed to:

Better Together

Some of our most faithful, longtime attendees share their experiences as part of the Willamette family of churches, and pray for God to continue showing them how he's calling them to serve others. Learn more about our churches' legacy: