INTERVIEW WITH THE BOARD CHAIR

Krista Mainess was recently elected as the chairperson of the church board of New Hope Church. Read a short interview about her plan and vision for our church.


How long have you been attending New Hope?
Since 2005

What made you join New Hope?
We liked the seeker-friendly atmosphere. People are accepted the way they are at New Hope, the way God accepts each of us. Then, people are encouraged to grow and develop spiritually through various avenues, bible study, worship service, volunteering, special events (Easter Drama), small group, and the list goes on. There is something for everyone!

What is your dream for New Hope?
My dream is to see more members inspired to serve God through witnessing and volunteerism. The great commission says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. And, lo, I am with you alway.... even unto the end of the world. Amen” Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV).

Volunteering means giving of ourselves, time, money, spiritual gifts, etc. the way Christ gave Himself for us.

What would you say to somebody who is thinking about becoming more involved in the church? I think everyone should become more involved in the church. God's church functions by His grace and through the members of the church. I believe God blesses those that are willing to be used by Him to bless others. When you become involved, you have the privilege of serving others and working with other like-minded people who have the same goal and desire to be caught up in the air with Christ! At one time I believed I was too busy with life to add one more thing to my plate but then I realized that Satan didn't want me to serve because blessings were involved. Then, it became a priority. I asked God, how can I serve you? Slowly but surely, my priorities changed and my energy went from serving everyone and thing around me (my agenda) to serving God!

What do you hope to accomplish as the board chair? I must say I am very humbled by this experience. Because of my own baggage and my sinful nature, I realize that I have to rely totally on Him. I don't have a personal agenda but I would like to see the church develop a strategic plan for the next five years, improve communications among church members and leaders, and increase the size of members willing to volunteer their time. If God blesses me to be part of any or all of these efforts, I will count it all joy!