One Ancient Hope Church strives to be a community in which believers grow in faith, hope, and love. While each believer’s identity as an individual in Christ is important, the Bible calls us to live in community. In being united to Christ, we are also united to His family – the Church. Jesus designed His church to be open and inviting, actively extending many of the benefits of Covenant community life to anyone –followers, seekers, and skeptics alike.
At One Ancient Hope, we have opportunities for individuals and families, men and women, young and old, to build community with one another. We hope that life-giving friendships will be formed and that together we may serve our neighbors and our city.
Gathering Time – Before Sunday morning services, we enjoy a half-hour of light refreshments and conversation. Within services, we acknowledge the accomplishments and anniversaries of our people with praise and thanks to God.
Community Groups – These are the cornerstone of One Ancient Hope’s efforts to create community. Each week group members gather together over meals to discuss the weekly message, study the bible, and to pray for each other. Everyone is encouraged to join.
Community Meals – One Ancient Hope comes together frequently for community-wide meals (every other month). These meals often take place after a service. During the summer we take advantage of great Iowa weather to enjoy BBQs in lovely Iowa City parks, and we always share a Thanksgiving meal together.
Vocational Groups - Our church is currently exploring starting monthly vocational groups in the Fall of 2018. Vocational groups gather monthly in a small group setting with people in like vocations to discuss how their faith impacts their work. Look out for more details coming soon.
Women’s Ministry – Women play a vital role in the life and ministry of the church. At One Ancient Hope we are blessed to have numerous talented women who care deeply about our community and each other. Our women’s ministry team exists to cultivate community and spiritual growth in the context of relationships with other women. Our women ministry team plan great activities such as cocktail nights, book readings at Prairie Lights, bridal and baby showers, playgroups, storytelling nights, and holiday gatherings. In the Fall, we meet weekly for a bible study. In the Spring, we meet in smaller groups of 2-3 women called Nourish Groups for a time of intentional connection.
Men’s Ministry – Understanding that men need relationships with other men, One Ancient Hope provides opportunities for men to gather together. In the past, the men’s ministry has had weekly fellowship night at Donnelly’s pub, weekly morning prayer times, and an annual weekend retreat in February or March. In addition, men get together to go running, hiking, rock-climbing, biking, or just to talk.