The Tiptons and Hope Church

When Matt Tipton and his wife, Elaine, were seminary students at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, they planned on serving long-term in the city. But when Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, they lost everything. They were forced to move back home to Tennessee with a burden for the city of New Orleans still on their hearts. A few years later, God called them back to New Orleans to plant Hope Church—this time with two children—Anna Claire and David. Since their return some two years ago, they have worked on developing a core group and building relationships through Hope Church.

The Tiptons have used a variety of outlets to reach the people in their community. They have created a Facebook page, ReCreateNOLA, and now have over 250 young adults from around the city connected to their pickup games of Ultimate Frisbee, soccer, flag football, and kickball. The relationships they are building through these simple, recreational activities are yielding gospel impact.

God is using Hope Church to draw people to Himself. Church planting is a slow process in a city where less than three percent of the people follow Christ. But by God’s grace, people are being saved! Planters like the Tiptons have a desire to see many new churches planted in the New Orleans area and for the gospel to transform the city they love.

The Tiptons are looking for volunteer groups to serve with their ministry in February during Mardi Gras and in the summer during Crossover at the SBC Convention. To learn more about opportunities to serve, email Matt at matt@hopenola.com.