Our community
Who we are &
Why we're here
Real people. Real faith. A genuine love for the people of northern Adelaide.
Our story
How we came to be
Northern Communities of Hope began in early 2002, born out of a partnership between the Elizabeth and Hewett Churches of Christ in northern Adelaide, South Australia.
From the very beginning, we set out with one goal: to be a living, breathing expression of God’s love in the suburbs and streets of Davoren Park, and beyond — not from a distance, but right in the middle of everyday life.
More than two decades on, we are still here — still showing up, still building friendships, and still believing that every person in this community has dignity, purpose, and a story worth knowing.
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit."
Purpose & direction
Mission & Vision
Mission Statement
We exist to serve, share and support — demonstrating Christ’s
love through community service, introducing people to
Jesus, and encouraging every person to grow in their faith.
Vision Statement
- God is at work transforming lives
- We are culturally relevant and responsive
- We focus on reaching neighbourhoods facing adversity
- We seek opportunities for growth and multiplication
- We are a connected, cell church community
How we live it out
Three pillars, one community
Serving
Demonstrating Jesus’ love through
practical community service —meals, care, supporting local organisations, and a consistent presence in the neighbourhood.
Sharing
Introducing people to Jesus through genuine relationships, honest conversations, biblically based teaching, and open doors.
Supporting
Encouraging and equipping people to grow in their love for Jesus — particularly through care and discipleship groups, so no one has to walk the journey alone.
What guides us
Core Values
Acknowledging our dependence on God, we recognise that prayer is the foundation of
everything we do.
Community
We foster a strong sense of belonging and acceptance for all members.
Outreach
We are dedicated to reaching those in our community without faith in Jesus Christ.
Discipleship
We strive to grow closer to Jesus and help others
do the same.
Gospel Justice
We support and stand alongside those facing
adversity.
Spiritual Gifts
We help people identify and use their God-given
gifts to serve others.
Unity
We value a church family united through the
Holy Spirit.
Our neighbourhood
Davoren Park — why we are here
Davoren Park is a suburb in northern Adelaide where many residents face real challenges: unemployment, mental illness, drug and alcohol abuse, family and domestic violence, financial hardship, and loneliness.
NCOH did not come to fix the suburb. We came to belong to it. To stand alongside our neighbours, share meals, and be present in the hard moments as well as the joyful ones.
We are here because we believe every person in Davoren Park matters — and that a community built on love can change things from the inside out.
The team
Meet our leaders
Real people who love this community. Not corporate, not distant, just faithful.
Gary Martin
Lead Pastor
Bryan Sellars
Pastor
Jill Sellars
Worship & Children's Ministries
Paul Adams
Leadership
Sarah Adams
Leadership
What we believe
Our faith, simply put
We hold to traditional Christian faith. Here is the short version – in plain language.
We believe in one God — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — who created all things and loves all people.
We believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who lived among us, died for us, and rose again.
We believe the Bible is God's word — a trustworthy guide for life, faith, and following Jesus.
We believe every person has dignity and worth — and that God's love is for everyone, no exceptions.
We believe the church is not a building — it is people committed to following Jesus together in community.
"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Come say hello
You are welcome here
Whether you are curious, sceptical, or just looking for community —
the door is open. Come as you are.