New Hope (formerly Century Assembly of God) derived its name from the New Century Town development that is now a part of Vernon Hills. Rev. Larry Newton, the founding pastor, founded the church in 1972 at the request of Richard Dortch, Illinois District Superintendent. Century was at that time a new church plant in need of a facility and a congregation. They met in Village community centers, school cafeterias, and even an old restaurant/bar used as Sunday School classrooms that were filled with God’s people and the presence of the Holy Spirit week after week.
Steady growth brought our church family through two building campaigns on different campuses to lead us to where we gather to worship today. Sadly, in January, 2001, Pastor Larry Newton suffered a stroke, the after effects of which left him unable to continue his ministry, and he resigned with nearly thirty years of faithful and fruitful pastoral ministry.
In January, 2002, the Lord called Rev. Aaron Malusky and his wife, Sarah, to come from their church in central Illinois to serve our local congregation. Since that time our membership has more than tripled, new ministries and vision have been birthed and a great excitement stirs the hearts of our church family.
In the fall of 2005, in response to an increasing congregational voice to rename our Century Assembly of God church, Pastor Aaron began the arduous search to find a new and inspiring name. In an effort to involve the entire congregation in this important event, name suggestions were solicited for several months and a committee appointed to compile the votes for the new name. After their prayerful review and consideration, the top names were submitted to the congregation for a vote. On October 9, 2005 the membership of Century Assembly of God voted to change their name to “NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP”.
For over four decades New Hope has served its community faithfully and continues to follow its mission statement and objective which is “to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ”. If you are looking for a church home, we invite you to come worship with us and experience the wonderful life changing power of our Risen Savior, Jesus Christ.