Pastor Ben and Annaliese Murray were pastoring a life-giving Alabama church in 2007 when God stepped in with a new calling – to launch a church in Wichita Falls, TX. In late, 2017 God made it clear. It was time to come back to Texas to found a church that would bring people hope, purpose, and a place to belong. In 2019, Pastor Ben, Annaliese, and two couples from Alabama launched City Hope Church.
Since then, City Hope has experienced lives changed, purpose discovered, and freedom found all through Christ!
With growth at a rapid pace, City Hope Church identified the need to expand its current facilities, ministries, and future church locations to reach more souls in need of hope and salvation. God made it clear to the leadership team that it was time to take the next step and embark on a building campaign.
In February of 2024, City Hope Church launched its ‘Heart for the House’ capital campaign with the goal of raising 4 million dollars in three years to acquire 20 acres of land.
Pastor Ben and Annaliese Murray have witnessed story after story of life change and spiritual growth because of the campaign. There has been tremendous growth in first-time givers, and those who are taking steps of faith through hard times of loss.
God has moved in incredible ways and City Hope Church has seen over 443 households pledge $5.3 million dollars. Out of the pledge amount, $504,119.91 has been raised in over two months towards the ‘Heart for the House’ campaign.
City Hope Church decided to partner with INJOY Stewardship Solutions due to stories and recommendations from other churches who had.
‘INJOY [Stewardship Solutions] has been incredible to work with. From the beginning, the presentation centered on putting God first every step of the way. We value this as a church and this was another confirmation that it wasn’t just another transaction. The INJOY [Stewardship Solutions] team valued everyone of our team and made each one of them feel important through this journey.’
Pastors Ben & Annaliese Murray
Vice President of Consulting, Chad Aukland, has worked alongside City Hope Church laying the groundwork for what needs to be done by each team during the spiritual campaign. With previous campaign examples, Chad has assisted the City Hope team with best practices and key insights as they work to accomplish the fundraising goal of ‘Heart for the House.’
Chad constantly encourages the pastors and team. He is incredible at working with people in all areas and truly has a gift. We are so thankful for him and his team. It has been an honor to work with INJOY and look forward to continuing to work with them as we continue to impact the kingdom!’
Pastors Ben & Annaliese Murray