The Journey of Living Hope

Meeting in Brückengemeinde with Church members

2009

Living Hope International Church was founded in 2009 by Pastor Maxwell and Mitzi Aruwa. Our humble beginnings were in Dortmund Hörde, where we started small in the Baptist church Brückengemeinde. Since then, we have grown and continue to serve our community with faith and dedication.

 

2011

In 2011, we took a significant step forward by purchasing a small bar room located at Günterstraße 44143. This space was transformed into a welcoming house for all nations through the dedication and hard work of our community.For the next five years, this location became the heart of our church activities, hosting weekly services, prayer meetings, and various community events.

First Church Building in Günterstraße

The Church hall before the renovations with the stage and all upcoming Rooms lined up with tape.

2016

With much support from the congregation members, we moved to Oespel Kley into an old tennis hall. This move was a great relief as it provided us with much more space for our activities. The new location allowed us to expand our community and welcome more people. We are still located at Wendenweg, Oespel Kley, and continue to hold our weekly services and events there. The additional space has enabled us to offer more programs and activities, fostering a stronger sense of community and spiritual growth.

2019

In 2019, the building authority prohibited us from holding services in the hall until we completed renovations. With the support of our congregation members, we undertook a comprehensive renovation of the entire hall and the surrounding property. This effort brought our community closer together and resulted in a beautifully renovated space where we could continue to worship and grow.

Picture of the hall in 2019 with 20% of the walls being finished

Pastor Maxwell working on the cables on the roof

2020

In 2020, the arrival of COVID-19 brought our renovation efforts to a halt, as we were unable to meet and work together. This significantly delayed our progress, and only a few members were able to help with the renovations during this challenging time. Pastor Maxwell Aruwa had to work almost alone in the church, but there were a few dedicated helpers who truly made a difference.

2023

In 2023, we completed all the renovations, and the building authority granted us permission to meet again. We added six or more rooms to the church and a new stage, enhancing our facilities significantly. Due to the delays caused by COVID-19, we lost about 90% of our congregation members, but we are rebuilding and growing stronger each day.

Picture of the church

Praise and Worship in LHIM

2025

We are still located at Wendenweg 5 or Borussiastraße 83, where we continue to praise and worship God. Our Sunday Service is held at 11 AM every Sunday, and we warmly welcome everyone to join us.