6002 S 9th St
St Joseph, MO 64504
(816) 238-3013

Melissa and Steve met each other at Biola and got married shortly after they graduated.

In April of 2003, Steve and Melissa sensed a call from the Lord to plant a church in St. Joseph, Missouri. The Sewell's began commuting to St. Joseph to identify what God's will was for St. Joseph and for a healthy Foursquare church there. Ultimately, the former church, Hyde Park Foursquare- which had suffered much, was closed, and in July of 2003, a new church plant began… New Hope Foursquare Church. Through some trials and celebrations, set-backs and refinements, the foursquare church is once again making advancements in the Kingdom of God and its reputation for interdenominational evangelism is on the rise. Steve also serves with an amazing team of divisional superintendents within the Gateway District of Foursqaure Churches

about our pastors

Steve was born and raised in the California Bay Area and accepted Christ in his freshman year in high school. By his senior year, he began to sense God speaking to him regarding serving the Lord as a pastor and for the next three years worked under the strong leadership for training. The Lord then provided an opportunity for him to attend Biola University where he received his B.A. in Christian Education. While attending college, he worked as a youth pastor and as a camp and conference speaker.

Melissa was born in Japan and, being raised in a military family, moved around a lot when she was younger. When she was a preteen, her family settled in Southern California and at age 11 years old she accepted Christ in her heart . It was at this church that God planted seeds in her heart to serve Him in ministry. Melissa also attended Biola University and graduated with a B.A. in Psychology. She’s still trying to figure Steve out!