If you questions not answered below or would like more information about the church, call 651-227-6311 or send e-mail to hoh@hohchurch.org.

What should I expect when visiting House of Hope for the first time?

Getting here -  A map and driving directions are available on the church Web site. Parking is available along Summit Avenue, on the adjacent city streets, and in the church parking lot directly north of the church on the corner of Avon Street and Portland Avenue. There is also a parking lot across from the church on the south side of Summit Avenue on the corner of Summit and Grotto, which is available for church use on Sunday mornings. William Mitchell College of Law uses the lot during the week.

The handicapped entrances are the west and center doors on Portland Avenue. On Sunday mornings there is valet parking available at the “porte cochere” (center door on Portland) provided by the deacons.

Also on Sunday mornings there are greeters with “Welcome” buttons at each door of the church who would be happy to give directions and provide information. There are also information kiosks in several locations which provide a map to various church facilities, and printed material about church membership, opportunities, and programs.

Worship Services - During the school year Sunday services are held at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Both services are identical except that the 9 a.m. service also has “A Time for Children” and participation of the children’s choirs. Nevertheless, children are welcome at both services. There is one worship service at 10:00 a.m. during the summer months; check the Web site or call the church office at (651) 227-6311 for further information.

You may wish to arrive 10 minutes early to enjoy the prelude music. Worship begins with a procession of the acolytes, clergy and choirs. If you arrive close to starting time, don’t be surprised by the groups of people congregating for the procession. If the service has already begun, you may be asked to allow the procession to clear the entry area before entering.

Ushers are identifiable by their carnations, and are available to answer questions and to distribute the bulletin. The church service follows a similar format each week and is printed in the bulletin. Also included in the bulletin are church announcements, upcoming events for adults, children, and various groups, and a directory of the staff, so be sure to take one home with you. The Bulletin is also available as a download from the House of Hope Web site.

Visitors are encouraged to use the gold foil stickers (found in the pew racks) on their clothing, so that we may welcome you and offer any assistance. We understand it can be challenging to attend a new church. Friendship pads are passed along the pew during the service, so that we may learn new names and faces. You may include contact information and request a follow-up phone call.

If you are attending with children, decorated welcome bags created by the Sunday school children may be found in the Cloister Gallery.

Other activities - Between the services and after the 11 a.m. service coffee and fellowship are available in the Kirk Parlour, located near the sanctuary. A Membership and Information table is also located in the Parlour with staff available to answer questions.

Adult education is offered most Sundays, September through May, between worship services. Check the Bulletin for current and future topics.

The Cloister Gallery is adjacent to the sanctuary. Enjoy the works of local artists.

Childcare is available and staffed by trained professionals during services. Children’s Christian education is open to all children whose parents are attending worship. You are asked to register emergency contact information with Jan Snell, Director of Christian Education. Her office is at the south end of the Education Wing.

House of Hope’s Web site also provides a complete calendar of learning, fellowship, and social activities which take place on an ongoing basis at House of Hope (under “News & Events”). These include the Children’s Choir, volunteer service opportunities, music programs, and programs for men, women, families, teens and children. You may also access these events on House of Hope’s 24-hour “Dial-A-Program” hot-line at (651) 223-7559.

How do I join the church?

To have a minister contact you regarding membership, please leave your name and contact information with the church office: (651) 227-6311.

How do I make arrangements for getting married at The House of Hope?

Contact Teddy Altman, 651-223-7541 to start preparations for holding a wedding in the church. Please note that only members of House of Hope may use the church for weddings.

What do I need to do to have my child baptized at the church?

Contact Michelle Freyholtz, the baptismal coordinator, at 651-223-7556. Baptisms are typically held every month and are integrated with a regular church service. In the Presbyterian church, the congregation acts as sponsors, pledging to oversee the Christian education of the child. An elder will guide you through the events of the day. Click here for more inforatmion.

According to Presbyterian polity, one of the parents should be a member of the church.

How can I contact a minister for guidance or counseling?

Please call the main office number, 651-227-6311, and the staff will help you get in touch with one of the ministers of the church.

What kinds of volunteer and outreach opportunities are provided through the church?

The House of Hope has several ongoing programs, designed for volunteers to provide service to the greater community. See the Directory page for a description of each group and contact information. Also, visit our Service page for more specific informtion.