For over 18 years, Pastor Reeves and Jenn had the honor to serve as kids pastors, youth pastors, creative director, young adult and discipleship pastors. There they had many opportunities to grow and develop in various aspects of ministry. These experiences shaped and prepared them to launch and pastor Hope Valley Church.
Pastor Reeves and Jenn felt God call them to plant a new life-giving church in Knoxville, Tennessee in January of 2019 as they were praying and asking God what their next step might be. During a visit to Knoxville God spoke clearly to our pastors that “these are the people I’ve called you to.” From that moment on they begin the launching process of Hope Valley Church.
The Wilders’ moved to Knoxville in June of 2019 and immediately begin meeting people, building teams and preparing to launch services on September 12, 2020. What they did not know was they were starting a brand-new church during a pandemic. The Hope Valley team launched online only on September 12th, 2020. The next few months were trying, but God was so faithful. Since meeting in person September 13th, 2021, there has been a constant growth and people are coming into a real relationship with Jesus. God has sent many incredible people to come alongside this vision of this church – to see the people of this community experience Jesus – and it is happening now!
Reeves and Jenn met in the summer of 2004, and then married in 2007. Since then, we've had 3 beautiful children: Brayden, Braxton, and Lucy. We love spending our time together while watching our kids play sports, exploring the mountains of Tennessee, and finding fun and local places to eat. I have a crazy love for quality coffee, while Jenn loves a good trip to Target. One thing that we value above all is family. Creating moments with each other is a BIG DEAL, because those moments last a lifetime.
“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13 NLT