Hope intentionally creates opportunities for the people of the little apple to get to know each other. A small church is one in which you can find people to share a conversation, a coffee, or the tough stuff.
Hope aims to present the word of God in its truth and purity. Everything we do in worship and study is based on sections from scripture in their original context. We want you to take the Bible home and read it yourself!
Because we have been given this incredible gift of salvation, we can't help but share it. Through community and service events, Hope reaches outside its four walls and into Manhattan.
A Nebraska native raised on the Minnesota prairie, Pastor Phil Hirsch studied and trained in Wisconsin. His pastoral training included a vicar year in Puerto Rico after a summer learning Spanish in Mexico. He then began life as a pastor, serving in different ways that have taken him across the country. His first parish was in Boulder, Colorado, where he met his wife, Kristi. Together they have seven children: Mychal, Emma, Sam, Ella, Ida, David, and Joseph.
Phil came to Manhattan in 1998 to help launch Hope Lutheran Church, which for many years included an early learning center serving families across the community. For over a decade, he has also served the Nebraska District of WELS as a district president, supporting congregations, pastors, and teachers throughout the region. In this season of life, he and Kristi enjoy visiting their kids and grandkids, staying connected at Hope, and catching the noon pickup game at KSU whenever possible.
Bring your little ones (ages 0–6) to Brothers Coffee at the Edge for a fun midweek outing you'll both enjoy! Parents are welcome to grab a coffee and sit with their child during story time in the event space. Get more details and connect with other parents in attendance on our Facebook Events page.
@2026 Copyrighted | Design by Grace Ungemach | Privacy | Terms