Discovering Hope is a process that helps rural and small town congregations rediscover their purpose and sense of mission. This evangelism tool is based on the book Discovering Hope: Building Vitality in Rural Congregations written by David Poling-Goldenne and L. Shannon Jung. This resource celebrates the best practices of 26 rural and small town congregations highlighting their effective work in the areas of prayer, worship, discipleship, evangelism, congregational care and leadership.

For more information, contact Pastor Bob Vaage at 712-338-4514.

New!! Discovering Hope: Catch the Spirit, Grow the Church: A Devotional Guide for Congregational Leaders

The third Western Iowa Synod Discovering Hope event, "Discovering Hope Together," was held at Zion Lutheran, Gowrie, on August 26, 2006. Sixty-five participants gathered for worship, keynotes by Pastor David Poling-Goldenne, co-author of the Discovering Hope book, workshops and fellowship. Evaluations show that participants were grateful for this day of hopeful celebration.

After three years of large group events, the Western Iowa Synod Discovering Hope planning committee will focus on helping congregations take the next step. The committee will be gathering two to three congregations from a geographical area together for an overnight visioning retreat, concentrating on more specific areas and situations. The next large group Discovering Hope event will be in 2008.

2006 Discovering Hope Event

Zion Lutheran, Gowrie

August 26, 2006