The Presbyterian Church of Old Greenwich, located at 38 West End Ave., has changed its name effective March 4 to Living Hope Community Church. March is a meaningful month in the church’s history.
Pastor William Gestal explains, “Our church was founded in 1894. However, on March 6, 1969 the church moved to its present location. We’re very grateful for those who have gone before us and called this church their home; a great legacy of faith and ministry has been deposited here over the years. We’ve recently joined a new denomination called ECO – A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians and we had a strong sense the time was right for us to have a new name reflecting Jesus’ message of love, hope, healing and abundant life for everyone. While looking into some of the church’s history, we discovered a 1969 report by then Pastor William Murphy to the congregation in which he wrote: ‘This church symbolizes hope, faith and loving concern. Some day it should carry a new name for it has long since ceased being The Presbyterian Church For Old Greenwich.’”
Pastor Gestal continues, “The name Living Hope was derived from 1 Peter 1:3-4: ‘Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade – kept in heaven for you.’
We are very excited about this new season in the life of the church. It’s our desire to continue serving the people in our community and around the world in any way possible.”
In addition to hosting weekly morning and evening Community Bible Studies, MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers), various adult 12-step groups, the weekly seasonal Old Greenwich Farmer’s Market and annual Christmas Tea, Living Hope Community Church provides Bible/book Studies for men, women and youth. The church also offers local and international mission opportunities. Healing Prayer Ministry is available by appointment for physical, emotional, relational and/or spiritual needs.
For more information call the church office at, 203-637-3669 and/or visit LivingHopeCT.org. Sunday worship is 10 a.m., which includes youth and children’s Sunday school and nursery care. A 9 a.m. adult Bible study also takes place each Sunday preceding the service.
