Neighborhood Church Merger with
NewHope Church FAQs
How did this merger idea come about?
In 2024, after his Sabbatical, Pastor Fred Fay felt like the Lord released him from pastoring Neighborhood church and was leading him into a new season. Pastor Fred then called the Superintendent of the Northwest Ministry Network, Don Ross, and told him what the Lord was stirring in his heart. Pastor Fred began to pray about what that meant for the future of Neighborhood Church. Just a few weeks later, Don Ross was having lunch with Pastor Rodney Wardwell. Rodney is the lead pastor of a multisite church called Newhope Church. They began to talk about church planting. Rodney told Don that he felt the Lord was leading them to start a new campus of Newhope in University Place. They were already developing the new planters, Julian and Maria Herrera. Don Ross then asked if he could have lunch with Pastor Fred and Pastor Rodney together to talk and pray about what it could look like to work together. After much prayer, conversation, and consideration, Pastor Fred enthusiastically feels this the best possible outcome for him and the future of Neighborhood Church.
Why are we considering a merger?
As transition for Pastor Fred and Pam became clear and more imminent, the board began praying for direction. We have taken time to review several possibilities and sense the Lord has led us to merge with NewHope. We believe this will advance the Mission of Neighborhood Church. The Mission of Neighborhood Church is to bring the love of Jesus into the community and help people become more like Jesus. This mission blends well with the Mission of NewHope. We are excited to join with a church that is attracting younger families, young adults, teenagers and children. The leadership of both churches have met and think this merger had been a gift of the Holy Spirit. We have seen the Spirit guiding us during this process.
What are the benefits of this proposed merger?
Neighborhood Church has had a lasting impact on University Place since it was founded. Through the work of this church, people have said ‘yes’ to Jesus, have been called to ministry and have been equipped to live on mission for the Lord. Through this merger, the work and legacy of Neighborhood Church will live on as a campus of Newhope which is a healthy and thriving church.
What is a multisite church?
A multisite church is one church in multiple locations. The church has one Lead Pastor, one elder board, and handles all finances together. Every campus shares the same mission, vision and values. Each campus has a Lead Campus Pastor who is the lead communicator and the leader of all ministry and ministry teams at their specific location, while at the same time being a part of the bigger multisite team.
Will our church have a new name and what will it be?
Yes, the new church will be called Newhope University Place.
Who will be our pastor?
The Lead Pastor of NewHope University Place will be Julian Herrera with Rodney Wardwell as the Lead Pastor for all all NewHope sites.
What will happen to Pastor Fred and Pam?
Pastor Fred has expressed his desire to step down as lead pastor. In this new season he will keep himself open to new possibilities in ministry. He has expressed a desire to write and coach others who need guidance in their lives. We want to honor that. We want to celebrate the 15 years of faithfulness that the Fays have given to Neighborhood Church and the way they have led this transition season.
Pastor Fred and Pam are currently not moving from the area and will attend the new church. Fred and Julian have become great friends, and we anticipate that is only going to grow.
What will happen to the church board?
The board of Neighborhood Church as is will dissolve and the Elder Board of Newhope will be the governing board and be accountable for Newhope University Place.
What will happen to the church’s facilities?
The church’s facilities will become a part of Newhope Church and will be used for ministry. We will still meet at the present location.
How will the budget and finances be managed?
The budgets will be the responsibility of the Campus Pastor to work with Newhope’s Executive Pastor and set for their campus each year. The finances are managed at Newhope’s Central Office.
How will current membership be transferred?
Current membership of Neighborhood Church are invited to join NewHope University Place and apply for membership. Those in good standing will be fast tracked to becoming members of Newhope.
Will our denomination and affiliations change?
No, both Neighborhood Church and Newhope Church are a part of the Assemblies of God, and our network leadership is very much in favor of this merger happening.
What will happen to our supported missionaries and organizations?
All missionaries and organizations that Neighborhood Church supports will be retained and their giving will be honored at current levels. These partners will be added to Newhope’s Kingdom Builders giving.
Who will decide if this merger happens?
While Pastor Fred and Pastor Julian are both very excited about this possibility and are advocating for it to pass; and while both church boards are in unanimous agreement, the decision has to be made by a simple majority vote of Neighborhood Church membership. The vote will happen on Sunday, August 10th following the morning gathering at Neighborhood Church.
What are my next steps?
We encourage you to pray and seek the Lord. If you have questions, you can reach out to Pastor Fred, Pastor Rodney or the church board. We would love to have a conversation with you.