In August 1985, the Christian Church in Georgia—via the Church Development Commission—decided to start a new church in the Snapfinger-Flat Shoals community in DeKalb County. After a series of interviews, Rev. Cynthia L. Hale, a native of Roanoke, Virginia and lifetime member of the Disciples of Christ denomination, was called to the position in November 1985.
In February 1986, Rev. Hale and several others began meeting for Bible Study in her apartment. When Rev. Hale was asked what name she wanted for the church, she stated, “A Ray of Hope.” In March 1986, her suggestion was accepted. It wasn’t until later that the “a” was dropped. On May 4, 1986, Rev. Hale was formally commissioned as Pastor/Developer of the Ray of Hope Christian Church by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia.
On Sunday, June 29, 1986, Ray of Hope Christian Church began worshipping in the cafeteria of Columbia High School in Decatur, Georgia. In October 1987, Ray of Hope’s congregation moved into their new home at 3936 Rainbow Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30034. With 86 members, the first worship service was held on November 1, 1987. On June 5, 1988, Ray of Hope elected its first officers and adopted a constitution.
In 2000, the Snapfinger Road Campus was purchased, initiating a move from a 350-seat sanctuary to one that seats 3,500 and transitioning from one building to four. The campus includes a Main Sanctuary, Chapel, Christian Education building, and the Stephens Ministry building. The Sanctuary was dedicated in September 2000.
Look and see what the Lord has done . . .
