In 1972, Hope Baptist School was started and continues today using the Accelerated Christian Education curriculum. Enrollment is usually from 65-75 students each year K-12 grades.
A big part of the HBC's outreach had always been England Air Force Base situated only 1 mile away. However, in October 1990, the Base Realignment and Closure Commission decided that England Air Force Base would be closed by September 1992. Needless to say this had a big impact on HBC , nevertheless we praise the Lord for the people saved and influenced for the kingdom of God during 36 years of ministry to the Base.
On December 19, 2007 the Lord called Dr. Chelette on to glory. His wife, Louise, still attends the church faithfully. Their legacy of love and labor lives on at Hope.
Today HBC averages about 120 in attendance each Sunday. During school months the King's Kids program is well attended on Wednesday nights. Alexandria and central Louisiana is experiencing growth and economic optimism is in the air. The mission of HBC continues to be reaching lost souls for Christ, as well as building up believers through the local church fellowship.
Hope Baptist Church began with a group of people meeting in the home of Mr. & Mrs. J.T. McManus on October 15, 1955. They also met in the homes of James LaCroix, Otto Black, and Don Chelette. On November 15, 1955, by the vote of the group, Hope Baptist became a mission under the sponsorship of Central Missionary Baptist Church in Pineville, La. and Don Chelette was called as pastor.
1960's
Today
Hope Baptist Church & Schools
53 Years of Ministry in the Heart of Louisiana
In February, 1956, the group began holding services in a building on Louisiana Avenue in Alexandria and became known as the Louisiana Avenue Baptist Mission. In June, 1956, they purchased a building from the Church of Christ on the corner of Hope and Orchard Streets. On July 27, 1956, the Louisiana Avenue Baptist Mission organized itself into Hope Baptist Church with 29 members.
The church began to grow rapidly with strong emphasis placed on the soul-winning ministry and a good Sunday school program. A bus ministry and a nursing home ministry were soon started. A radio ministry began , and the gospel could be heard over KDBS every Sunday morning.
By the late 1960's the average attendance rose to over 700. Soon it was necessary for the church to move into new facilities on the Leesville Highway in March, 1971.
