New Hope eNews - October 23, 2026

10.23.2026

October is Pastor Appreciation Month!

 

We are so thankful for Pastor Sheldon and the many ways he faithfully leads, teaches, encourages, and cares for our New Hope family. Throughout the month of October, we invite you to take a moment to let him know how much his ministry means to you.

 

A simple note, card, word of encouragement, or prayer is a wonderful way to show your appreciation and remind him that the many ways he serves, both seen and unseen, do not go unnoticed.

LAST CALL FOR CLEANING SUPPLIES!

 

During the month of October, we have been collecting cleaning supplies to bless the ministry of We Care Outreach. This Sunday, October 25, is your last opportunity to bring in any of the following cleaning items to support We Care: dish soap, all-purpose cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, disinfectant wipes, glass cleaner, paper towels, and toilet paper.

MISSIONS INTERVIEW

MARK KOCH – RIDE NATURE

During both of our worship services this Sunday, October 25, we will have a special Missions Interview with Mark Koch of Ride Nature.

Mark grew up in a Christian home as a pastor’s kid, but it wasn’t until 2006 that he fully surrendered his life to Jesus and discovered his calling to ministry. With a lifelong passion for action sports, he began to recognize the incredible opportunity to use skateboarding, surfing, and other action sports to share the Gospel. In 2009, he and his wife, Shannon, founded Ride Nature, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to reaching people through action sports. Since then, Ride Nature has expanded its reach to more than 65 countries, equipping leaders, sharing the love of Jesus, and making disciples around the world. Mark and Shannon recently celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary and currently reside locally in Fort Myers, Florida. They have three daughters: Ellis (11), Nollie (9), and Willow (5).

If you attend our 11am Contemporary Service and would like to familiarize yourself with the songs we will be singing this Sunday, here are the links to check them out:

• God So Loved

• Your Love Awakens Me

• How He Loves

• How Deep the Father’s Love for Us

Wear your favorite team gear and join us

for Tailgate Sunday on November 1!

 

Come for worship, then stay for a BBQ lunch with all the fixins and an afternoon packed with fun for every age. We’ll have live music, axe throwing, archery, cornhole, inflatables, face painting, a preschool play area, and more!

 

This is the perfect Sunday to invite a friend, neighbor, or family member to join  you for worship and lunch. Whether you cheer for football, baseball, hockey, soccer, or something else entirely, represent your favorite team and sport by wearing your fan gear to church that morning!

 

Lunch is $10 per person, $20 per couple, or a maximum of $25 per family, including you, your spouse, and your children. College students are $5.

 

Please register in advance to help us plan well and make sure there’s plenty of BBQ for everyone!

 

CLICK TO REGISTER!

Lee Health’s Blood Drive will be at New Hope on Sunday, November 8, from 8am-1pm. All blood donated will stay in Lee County and give life to those in our community.

 

Click here to pre-register your preferred time slot!

New Hope is excited to host the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers on Sunday, November 8, at 4pm for their concert, In the Midst of Life. Under the direction of Matthew Koller, this moving musical program explores themes of fear, longing, memory, and the beauty of living fully in the present. Featuring pianist Abigail Allison and cellist Tim Torres, the concert promises an afternoon of beautiful music and meaningful reflection. Tickets can be purchased at mastersingersfm.com. Invite a friend and join us for this special afternoon of music right here at New Hope!

Looking for a little fresh air, fellowship, and time to connect with other women? Join us November 4, 11, and 18 for Walking Wednesdays! We’ll meet at the New Hope picnic tables at 6:30pm for a short devotional and prayer, followed by walking together from 7-8pm. It’s a simple way to enjoy some community, grow in faith, and get moving together. Bring your water bottle and a friend!

Middle and high school students are invited to join us for our Halloween Party on Sunday, October 25 from 6-8:30pm to enjoy dinner, competitions, and s’mores by the fire! Make sure to invite a friend!

Middle School Retreat • January 8-10

Camp Southwind in Ocklawaha, FL

High School Retreat • February 19-21

Camp Southwind in Ocklawaha, FL

High School Summer Camp • June 7-12

Camp Ridge Haven in Brevard, NC

Middle School Summer Camp • July 12-16

Camp Kulaqua in High Springs, FL

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

A simple shoebox can make an eternal difference! Through Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan's Purse, children around the world receive shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items, along with the opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ.

A simple shoebox can make an eternal difference! Through Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan's Purse, children around the world receive shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items, along with the opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ.

 

This year, New Hope has a goal of packing 600 shoeboxes, and we need your help! Gather your family, small group, or friends and fill a shoebox with gifts that will bring joy and share God's love with a child in need.

 

New Hope is also serving as a community drop-off location during National Collection Week, November 16 through 22. We'll be welcoming churches, families, and organizations from across our community as they bring their shoeboxes, and volunteers are needed throughout the week to help receive, organize, and prepare boxes for shipment.

 

Whether you pack a box, volunteer your time, or do both, you can be part of sharing the hope of Jesus with children around the world!

GENEROSITY UPDATE

10/18/2026 Giving: $13,104

Weekly Budget Requirement: $37,425


Jan–Sep 2026 Giving:

Income: $1,463,631

Expenses: $1,575,555

Difference: ($111,924)

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