Hope Explored: Short Course In West Gosford
3 Weeks | Free | Fridays 6.30pm – 8.30pm
Ever wonder if there’s more to life than just getting through another week?
Let’s be honest: between the noise, the stress, and the endless scrolling, it’s easy to become discouraged and exhausted by life’s endless troubles.
But what if there was more? What if real, robust hope and lasting peace were possible – and personal?
That’s what Hope Explored is about. Over three short, friendly sessions, we’ll take a look at where real hope, peace, and purpose can be found.
What you’ll find at Hope Explored:
- Encouragement for when life feels tough or stuck on repeat
- Space to slow down and think about what gives life meaning
- A look at hope from a Christian worldview
- Friendly people and good conversation
- Freedom to join in as much or as little as you like
You won’t be put on the spot, and you don’t need to know anything about the Bible. Just come along and see what you think.
It’s three Friday nights that could change the way you see the rest of your week.
Hope Explored is running in hundreds of churches worldwide, and now it’s coming to the Central Coast.
Join the Waitlist today and be the first to know when dates are released.
Why Hope?
Right now in Australia, real hope is getting harder to find.
- The cost of living keeps going up
- Genuine friendships are getting harder to build.
- News headlines rarely bring good news.
Hope can start to feel like a luxury – or even a foolish myth.
But, what if hope wasn’t just wishful thinking?
What if it was real, lasting, and deeply personal?
That’s what this course is about.
Who It’s For
Hope Explored is designed for people who wouldn’t normally go to something churchy.
It’s a space for:
- Anyone who feels like something’s missing (even if life looks fine on the surface)
- People curious about Jesus or the Bible, but not sure where to start
- Those in a relationship or friendship with a Christian and wanting to understand their worldview
It’s low-key, friendly, and open, whether you’re exploring, doubting, or just starting to wonder.
What We’ll Cover
Week 1: Hope
How our experiences shape what we think about hope.
What makes Christian hope different.
Bible stories of Jesus offering hope to real people.
Week 2: Peace
Why peace feels so hard to find.
Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion.
The surprising way faith offers us lasting peace.
Week 3: Purpose
How Jesus answers our need for purpose.
Why trusting Jesus is about evidence, not blind faith.
How finding purpose can change the way you see everything.
You don’t need to know anything about the Bible. Just bring your questions and your curiosity.
What You’ll Walk Away With
- A clearer picture of what Christian actually believe – and why
- Fresh ways to think about hope, peace and purpose in your own life
- Space to ask your questions, without pressure to agree
- Conversations that could make sense of the ‘big picture’ of life
Many people finish this course not just with new information, but with a new perspective.
Register now and we’ll get in touch to let you know when the next course is running.
Who We Are
Hope Explored is hosted by Gosford Presbyterian Church. We’re a community organisation serving our local area and helping people get to know Jesus.
We’ve been around since 1913. Click here to find out more about us.
The course is led by our Senior Minister, Matt Ham. Matt has been a Coastie for almost 20 years. He’s married to Megan with three kids, and first got to know Jesus as a teenager. He reckons it’s the best thing that ever happened to him – and he’d love to help you explore why.
“Come along to explore how you can find real hope. Sessions are very relaxed and there’s no pressure – just good conversation and a chance to think through some of life’s big questions together.”
Course Leader Matt Ham
FAQs:
Do I need to be a Christian to come?
Nope! This course is designed for people who aren’t Christians, or aren’t sure what they believe. It’s a space to explore, ask, and reflect, with no strings attached.
What if I don’t know anything about the Bible?
You’re not alone. We assume no background knowledge. This is a beginner-friendly space where all questions are welcome and no question is silly.
Will I be pressured to believe or change?
Not at all. There’s no altar call, no “sign-up moment,” and no expectation to agree. You can come just to listen and think things through at your own pace.
Is it awkward or churchy?
We keep it simple. Think relaxed conversation over coffee—not pews or pulpits. There’s no singing, no sermons, and no weird stuff. Just space to be real.
Can I attend even if I’m just doing it for my partner or friend?
Of course. Many people come because someone they care about invited them. Often, they’re surprised by how meaningful it is for themselves, too.
What does it cost?
Nothing. It’s completely free.
What if I miss a session?
That’s totally ok. Come to what you can. Each session stands on its own, so you won’t be lost.
Do I have to talk or share my thoughts?
No pressure at all. You’re free to participate however you’re comfortable, whether that’s speaking up or just listening in.
What happens afterwards?
If you’re curious to keep exploring after the course, we’re here to help.
It’s completely up to you and there’s no pressure to take a next step. We’re not interested in manipulating you into anything, and we won’t spam you with requests to sign up to anything either.
Past attendees have come along to church services, joined a group to explore the Bible in more detail, or simply continued the conversation informally at their own pace.
I’ve still got questions – is there someone I can chat with before deciding whether to attend?
Absolutely! Give us a call on 02 8529 8627 or email our office, and we’ll get in touch. And, you can also contact us via social media. Simply check us out on Facebook and Instagram.
Ready to Explore?
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
Simply bring your curiosity and join the conversation.
Here’s what most people take away from the course:
- Practical understanding of Christian hope, peace, and purpose that you can apply in everyday life.
- Fresh ways to think about life’s big questions and navigate uncertainty with confidence.
- A safe, relaxed space to ask questions and hear different perspectives, with no pressure to agree or participate.
- Better conversations with friends or family about faith, whether you’re exploring for yourself or alongside someone you care about.
Join the Waitlist Today — we’ll notify you as soon as dates are released so you can reserve your spot. It’s free, informal, and designed for people curious about life and faith.