HOPE Coming Up

Pastor Nate Widener • April 14, 2025

Spring HOPE Sessions will be a short 4 weeks this season due to how Easter weekend fell on the calendar, but not to worry!

We’re filling this one to the brim with great classes to start your summer off right.


First, save your Tuesday evenings from April 29-May 20th so you won’t miss any of the four weeks. A delicious optional dinner will start at 5:30 pm in the Cornerstone Room, followed by a whole group devotion before we break out into classes at 6:30 pm. Classes will be in various locations around the church. Some will stay in the Cornerstone Room, some might be in the Large Conference or Ministry Conference Rooms, one is definitely in the gym. We’ll make sure you know where to go.


We have a variety of class options. Read the descriptions below. We’ll also keep printed copies of the descriptions in the Ministry Center and on the HOPE page on The Hub. At the end of this article you'll find a convienent button.


Fundamentals of Faith led by Pastor Nate

Join Pastor Nate as he guides you through the major teachings of the ancient church, including the Trinity (Father-Son-Holy Spirit), the Sacraments (Baptism-Lord’s Supper), the message of the Bible, the life of the Church, etc. Also included is vital information to help you get connected with the family of believers at St. Peter’s – and beyond! Christ’s Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) to the church is that we would CONNECT with His Word and Sacraments in worship with fellow believers, that we would GROW in our understanding of His truth, and that we would SHARE this good news with a world starving for answers and dying to live. Fundamentals of Faith is a great place to start!


Hardness of Heart: Softening the Callouses & Melting the Armor led by Pastor McDowell

“I just don’t agree… Don’t bring that up... I’ve been hurt...” Those responses after we share the Word of God is like running into a stone wall. We hear them from people we love, our neighbor who needs God, and even in our own thoughts. Because of this we struggle with what to do next. The “hardness of heart” that we each bear is like callouses or pieces of armor around our spiritual hearts that prevent receiving God’s true word. In this class Pastor McDowell will share what the Bible says about the “hardness of heart,” how we can soften our hearts, and speak of God’s love to those who have armored against it.


The Chosen led by Pastor Dancy

Continue watching the series The Chosen. If you weren't able to attend previous sessions, you can find episodes for free at The Chosen website.


Soul Spa - Part 2 Led by Michelle Leahy

A good nap, a relaxing vacation, or a long talk with a close friend are all refreshing ways to restore your body when you are physically or emotionally tired, but what if all the usual remedies leave you feeling empty? In those times, you may be soul tired. Come to the Soul Spa. Building on the Soul Spa menu we started next spring, you will develop renewing habits and practices that will help you see God more clearly and respond to His love. Dress comfortably, grab a cozy chair, and, most importantly, bring your exhausted, fatigued, and shattered soul to the Father who promises to restore it.


Face It, Don’t Fear It: Our Final Witness led by Amy Widener

Face it & plan it! While death is our enemy, we as Christians do not have to fear it! Take control as you recognize you get to prepare a beautiful Christ centered service to encourage and bless those you love most. Let’s sing our favorite hymns together, read the most comforting scripture passages together, talk about some unknowns, and write down potential plans that can be added to your St. Peter’s record. 


Death is not the end for Christians so, let’s face it, and plan it. Recognize the joyful opportunity you have to be a witness of our resurrection in Christ while we can still celebrate each new day He blesses us with life.


Drums of Praise led by Alicia Rodenbeck

Drums Alive is a program that utilizes “whole brain – whole body” thinking by developing sensory motor reflexes and kinesthetic awareness. The physiological and psychological benefits are numerous including those found in traditional forms of aerobic fitness. Drumming has also been found to improve and increase the neurological connection between the 2 brain hemispheres, stimulating Alpha brain wave activity which can lead to higher levels of concentration, sensory/motor improvement, and an overall sense of well being. In Drums of Praise, Certified Drums Alive Coach, Alicia Rodenbeck, will lead participants through a short meditation on a verse highlighting God's Masterwork in the human body before leading a fun and uplifting drumming workout suitable for all ages and abilities. Come to drum away some stress or to dance and find some joy!


Middle School Youth

We’re growing as we continue with our Middle School Youth with Bible study and games. Come for fellowship and food at 5:30, then we will meet by the main entrance (Door 1) at 6:30 pm to enjoy time in God’s word and activities in the school gym.


Bible Sprouts led by Kami Mogelvang

This class is for children of all ages and includes games, activities and mini discussions about the Bible in the world around them. Learn through play and fellowship with other St. Peter’s kids. 



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News & Notes

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St. Peter’s Family, My wife Amy and I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of you for the outpouring of love you have shown us over the last several weeks. This past weekend, my oldest daughter Gwyn was married to our wonderful son-in-law Benjamin Corley, and we couldn’t be happier. But, what made it all the sweeter was seeing so many of your caring and supportive faces in the congregation. Similarly, as you know, just a few short weeks ago I lost my father, Nick Widener, and I cannot express to you the depth of my thankfulness for all of the condolences that you have given me and my family. Your cards are all sitting on the windowsill of my office. Without question St. Peter’s is a loving and caring congregation, and this is part of what makes you so great. Thank you for taking care of us, so that we can also take care of you. May God Bless you, Pastor Nate
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