“What began as a seed of faith,” I say, “grew into the Waldorf Church of God.” In 1976, a region-wide focus landed right here in Waldorf, MD. A prayer conference at Thomas Stone High School sparked a massive outreach. Attendees distributed tracts, seeking those interested in a new church.
On February 29, 1976, the first service was held. It took place in the John Hanson Annex. Twenty-three people attended. The Waldorf Church of God was officially organized on March 7, 1976. Overseer Robert E. Fisher and Reverend Daniel F. Moore led the way.
After a year, the congregation moved. Their new location was the Tri-County Federal Bank Building on Route 5. Pastor Moore envisioned a new building. Blueprints were drawn, and land was purchased. This prime location was on Old Washington Road. It was near Billingsley Road. The first phase was completed in September 1978. It included a fellowship hall, kitchen, classrooms, and offices.
With the building complete, the Waldorf Church of God Day Care began. This grew into an Early Learning Center. Later it became a kindergarten program and a Christian Academy. In June 2009, the school celebrated its first graduating class. Administrative Bishop Ronald D. Martin gave the commencement address.
During Pastor Moore’s time, the church rented a house for his family. Soon after the church building was done, a pre-fab house was erected. It became the new parsonage on the church property. It served as home for pastors’ families for years.
The second phase involved constructing the sanctuary. This happened in the mid-nineties. Pastor Ron W. Harris led this effort. During this time, the church’s name changed. It became New Hope Church of God.
The third phase began in March 2003. The old parsonage was burned down. This made room for a new educational building. It would house the expanding Christian School. Pastor Harris oversaw all this building activity. He served for fourteen years.
In December 2008, Reverend Steven Bullion became pastor. His wife, Cathie, enriched the services with her praise and worship leadership. She also worked as Principal at the New Hope Christian School. Under Pastor Bullion’s leadership, the New Hope Church embraced its Pentecostal roots.
The last phase began in May 2010. Reverend Aaron R. Jones and his wife, Sharon, took on the pastoral role. They brought Pentecostal revival to New Hope Church. The New Hope Church moves forward. Their vision? “God’s People Building God’s Kingdom.”
Charter Member Kay Warder (Webb) declared, “This will be my ‘home’ church.” She added, “I have a special affection for my church family. I was here at the beginning, and I am here now. I love my church!” And so, the Waldorf Church of God, now New Hope Church, stands as a testament to faith. It embodies community. It reflects unwavering dedication.