Lead Pastor
Stephen Banks
Coming to Hope United Church in 2003 at the age of 23, Stephen and Kristina helped the church find a new identity, make diversity a reality, and focus the church around being a hope-filled place that invests in the community. Stephen has a gift of preaching that connects to people from all walks of life. If you do not see him at the church, he is probably coaching his kids in soccer, playing basketball, or taking a trip to Florida with his family.
Music Leader
Wilson Nettles III
Wilson joined our church in 2023 as our leader of music after serving with other churches around Cleveland. He believes in helping people engage in worship. Wilson excels on the piano and can play a variety of music from Gospel to Contemporary. He oversees our band and choir ministry. Wilson loves to travel, play card games, and spend time with his family.
Pastor to Families with Children
Carolyn Joseph
Cleveland born and raised! Coming to Hope United Church in 2012, Carolyn established a growing kid and teen ministry. She has a heart for kids and lives out her ministry as a foster parent. Carolyn enjoys spending time with her family, playing board games, and amusement parks!
Graphic and Design
Erin Mitchell
Coming to Hope United Church at the age of 16, Erin was looking for a church that would allow them to be themselves and use their creative gifts. Erin loves video games and cats, but not necessarily video games about cats.
Campus Pastor/Missionary to Cleveland
James Laker
James moved with his family to Cleveland in 2019 to help plant churches in greater Cleveland and coordinate mission work between churches in Cleveland. Our goal is to have a missionary in each of Cleveland's 59 towns and municipalities. James is the director of Mission 59. Find out more info on their site www.mission59.com
Our Staff