HopeCity South Hill launched its inaugural Sabbath worship service on Nov. 15, 2025, marking the beginning of a new church plant focused on helping people encounter Jesus and grow as disciples. The launch reflected months of prayer, small-group ministry and relational outreach that have been taking shape in South Hill, Washington.
From the opening moments, the service set a joyful, worshipful tone with a strong focus on relationships, participation and shared spiritual life. Children helped lead family worship by reading scripture and offering prayer, modeling the intergenerational spirit that shapes the congregation’s identity.
“You’ve found a safe place where you can share hope,” worship leaders affirmed as members and guests gathered to celebrate what God has been doing through small groups, Bible study and relational ministry in the South Hill community.
HopeCity South Hill embraces seven core values that guide its mission: reflecting Jesus, belonging, gospel centrality, truth seeking, authenticity, other-centered living and being anchored with hope. On launch Sabbath, Jacob Serns, pastor, introduced part one of a seven-part sermon series exploring each value through the life and teachings of Jesus.
Preaching on the theme “Reflecting Jesus,” Serns reminded the congregation that Jesus is the source of light and that believers are called to reflect His character. Drawing from the gospels, Serns emphasized that Christ’s method of ministry remains the model for mission today: mingling with people, showing sympathy, ministering to needs and building trust through genuine relationships.
“Jesus said, ‘Go and make disciples, baptizing them,’” Serns shared. “You can’t orchestrate this on your own, but God can.”
That conviction was evident during one of the most meaningful moments of the day, as several individuals were baptized as part of their ongoing discipleship journey. At HopeCity South Hill, baptism coaches walk alongside people through Bible study, prayer and spiritual mentoring. On opening Sabbath, some assisted in baptizing those they had been discipling.
Small groups and Bible study pathways are central to HopeCity South Hill’s church culture, offering spaces to “Belong, Believe and Become.” Sabbath morning classes include Bible Basics for those new to faith, Beliefs for practical Christian living, and Wisdom, a deeper study option connected to the worldwide Sabbath School program. Throughout the week, additional small groups provide opportunities for connection and spiritual growth.
In a symbolic act of mission alignment, 50% of the offering collected on launch Sabbath was designated to support future church plants, signaling HopeCity South Hill’s desire not only to grow locally, but also to help multiply new congregations across the conference.
As HopeCity South Hill begins this new chapter, the congregation remains committed to reaching its community with compassion, authenticity and hope, reflecting Jesus in everyday life and inviting others to experience His transforming grace.
HopeCity gathers for its inaugural Sabbath worship service at its new meeting location in South Hill.
Members and guests fill the worship space during HopeCity South Hill’s launch Sabbath.
Children participate in family worship by leading out in scripture reading and singing.
Opening Sabbath is a moment for joy, as various people joined the church community through baptism.
Jacob Serns, pastor, preaches on the theme “Reflecting Jesus.”
Baptism coaches assist in baptizing those they have mentored, reflecting the church’s focus on multiplying leaders.
Community friends join together for a moment of prayer.
