When Dave Lanuti, campus pastor at the Apex campus of Hope Community Church, invited his neighbor to the grand opening, he had no idea what to expect. A practicing Jew, the man had never set foot inside a Christian church. “But he came because he respects Dave and to see the community center that serves his community, not the church,” notes James Hess, community center director. “He toured the facility, saw the gym and decided to join.”
It wasn’t long before he asked Lanuti if we’d welcome a “person like him” in Sunday services. Puzzled, Lanuti wondered aloud what he meant. “Well, I’m Jewish.” Once assured that we accept everyone, he decided to visit.
Now, he regularly attends worship at the Apex campus.
“These are the stories we hear every day,” says Hess. “It’s a direct response of our dedication to reaching the Triangle and changing the world. Every day, people are walking in requesting to rent space or join the gym who aren’t members of our church. They’re from all different backgrounds, all walks of life — and that’s the first part of our vision lived out right there.”
As for the second part?
“Well, it’s a process, isn’t it?” says Hess. “But it starts with loving people where they are and it’s such a rewarding experience to see it lived out.”
But the Community + Fitness Center wouldn’t be possible without your generous support. Funded largely through the Unleashed campaign, our newest campus includes five community meeting rooms, a high school regulation basketball court, two cross courts and two volleyball courts as well as a workout room with weightlifting and cardio equipment.
Classes such as aerobics, yoga and strength training are also available. An indoor play structure and three outdoor structures are open to the public for birthday parties, playdates or other events.
Along with the Apex building, Hope Community Church has campuses in Morrisville, Raleigh and South Raleigh. For the past several years, Hope’s Apex-Holly Springs members have been meeting at Holly Springs High School. The new 100,000-square-foot building is part of our 20/20 vision — a campus within 20 minutes of everyone in the Triangle by 2020.
“We exist to benefit the entire community,” says Hess. “Our friends, neighbors, the people we live and work alongside.”
Credits:
Written by Shannon Hartsoe. Photos by Dave Shay Photography