By September 10, 1995, the inaugural Sunday morning service drew 730 people with standing room only worship. Pastor Wayne recalls with a chuckle, "It was chaos - formless and void. We had several hundred people standing."

A team of 50 people from New Hope Hilo flew over and prepared a luau to celebrate what God was doing in Oahu. The first baptism at Magic Island brought forward 47 believers in October. God's anointing was strong, for in less than 6 months, 1,035 people attended the Christmas service held at the Ronald E. Bright Performing Arts Center.

In the year to come, weekly attendance continued to grow as friends shared the excitement with friends, family and co-workers. The Men's leadership continued to grow and Anna Cordeiro inspired the women of New Hope at the first women's breakfast. The midweek LEAD services continued to thrive, an evangelistic service generated 70 new believers and over 2,300 attended their summer musical "Let All Heaven Rejoice."

Like the wandering tribe of Israel, home was wherever God led them to worship and reach out. In February 1996, Sunday morning services were moved to University of Hawaii Campus Center, which held 1,563 worshipers. Easter Services were held at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel in April. A Mother's Day celebration was held at the Ilikai Ballroom. And by the first anniversary, they were back to the UH Special Events Arena. In his message to New Hope's 'Ohana, Pastor Wayne says "I look over the past year, I am deeply moved and humbled by what the Lord has done in our midst; 1,357 people received Christ, 500 were baptized and over 2,000 were added to our church family. "

Pastor Wayne knew then, that although numbers may work fine as a quick "measuring rod," they cannot begin to convey the heart and passion behind the people that God brought together. He says the passion is best viewed behind the scenes at New Hope where people serving experience the greatest joy and deep meaningful relationships.

"If you want to meet the leadership of New Hope, simply come early and stay late. They'll be setting up or taking down chairs, sound systems or tables. They will be seen praying for people in huddled groups. Those are the leaders."

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