Our Theology
At Hope, we don’t believe church is a place where you have to check your intellect at the door. Faith and critical thinking can—and should—go hand in hand.​​​
A New Approach
Our pastor, Jon, brings a deep commitment to Biblical scholarship, history, and ethics. Rather than approaching the Bible as a static text, we explore it through historical and cultural context—understanding the time, place, and people it was written for.
This academic approach, grounded in modern Biblical scholarship, allows us to ask important questions: What did these texts mean to their original audience? How have they been interpreted over time? And what do they mean for us today?
The Hard Questions
We engage with Scripture critically, honoring its richness without glossing over its complexity.
The Bible is not a weapon to divide or shame but a living story of love, liberation, and justice—one that invites us to reflect, grow, and live out our faith in meaningful ways.
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We challenge harmful interpretations and lean into conversations that many churches shy away from—because we believe God is big enough for our questions.
Whether it’s wrestling with doubt, exploring difficult passages, or applying Scripture to modern struggles, this is a place where intellect and faith can coexist.
The Denomination
The Covenant Church ("ECC") is a rapidly growing multiethnic denomination and n the United States and around the world. Founded in 1885 by Swedish immigrants.
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Hope Covenant Church specifically is a replant of a Historic Swedish Immigrant church in Lockport, IL which predates the Covenant Church Denomination.
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We are a place to seek understanding and grow deeper. A place to cross the aisle of different beliefs, backgrounds, and points of view to come together in fellowship and community.
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Unfortunately, because of the growing theological diversity, not all ECC Churches are as welcoming as they once were. Hope remains a safe space where all are welcome.
Chat with Jon
If you'd like to talk with, or even meet with, our lead pastor; Jon, before checking out our Sunday morning service feel free to reach out here!