Our History —
Hope Chapel UPC was founded on prayer, passion, and a powerful vision: to connect our community with hope. Under the leadership of Ryan and Lisa Vanderford, Hope Chapel held its first service on April 12, 2015, in the historic Cotton Gin in Old Towne Olive Branch. It was a humble beginning—but the Spirit of God moved mightily, and lives were immediately impacted.
Just two months after launching, the church quickly outgrew its original space and relocated to a storefront in the Mid South Shopping Center. Though the walls were simple, the vision was strong. People came hungry, and God continued to add to the church.
In May 2018, God opened another door, allowing us to secure our first permanent location at 8608 MS-178 in Olive Branch, Mississippi. This space became a spiritual home—a sanctuary of worship, discipleship, and healing.
Throughout every season, our mission has remained the same: To Love. To Grow. To Serve. Our vision is clear: to connect our community with HOPE—the kind of hope that only Jesus can give. Hope Chapel is more than a church; it’s a family. A place where every generation is welcomed, empowered, and equipped to walk in their God-given purpose.
And now, we are stepping into a new chapter. We are currently preparing for our next location—a space that will help us expand our reach, disciple more families, and lay down stronger foundations of hope for generations to come. From one service in the Cotton Gin to a growing body of believers on mission, God has proven faithful every step of the way.
The story isn’t over. The journey continues. And the best is still ahead.
Our Future —
Hope Chapel UPC was founded on prayer, passion, and a powerful vision: to connect our community with hope. Under the leadership of Ryan and Lisa Vanderford, Hope Chapel held its first service on April 12, 2015, in the historic Cotton Gin in Old Towne Olive Branch. It was a humble beginning—but the Spirit of God moved mightily, and lives were immediately impacted.
Just two months after launching, the church quickly outgrew its original space and relocated to a storefront in the Mid South Shopping Center. Though the walls were simple, the vision was strong. People came hungry, and God continued to add to the church.
In May 2018, God opened another door, allowing us to secure our first permanent location at 8608 MS-178 in Olive Branch, Mississippi. This space became a spiritual home—a sanctuary of worship, discipleship, and healing.
Throughout every season, our mission has remained the same: To Love. To Grow. To Serve. Our vision is clear: to connect our community with HOPE—the kind of hope that only Jesus can give. Hope Chapel is more than a church; it’s a family. A place where every generation is welcomed, empowered, and equipped to walk in their God-given purpose.
And now, we are stepping into a new chapter. We are currently preparing for our next location—a space that will help us expand our reach, disciple more families, and lay down stronger foundations of hope for generations to come. From one service in the Cotton Gin to a growing body of believers on mission, God has proven faithful every step of the way.
The story isn’t over. The journey continues. And the best is still ahead.
Our Future —