This article is provided by an Anglican parish in the Diocese of Adelaide:
Chalk It Up for Hope: How ‘Hope25’ Chalk Campaigns Can Spark Conversations
With the Australian Anglican program Hope25 set to inspire communities nationwide, churches (and schools?) have an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations by simply chalking words like “Hope” or “Hope25” on their properties. This simple, creative action can be a powerful tool for promoting the initiative and inviting dialogue about its deeper meaning.
The idea was suggested by Adelaide Anglican David Maegraith who, with fellow-Anglican John Sandeman, started Eternity newspaper in 2009. David says, “Kudos to John for suggesting we name the newspaper Eternity, which is of course a nod to the ministry Arthur Stace had in Sydney for many years, who chalked the word ‘Eternity’ around the streets of the city, provoking many conversations over the single word and, hopefully, people visiting churches to find out more about eternity. We ‘hope’ people will do the same in 2025, asking church members, ‘what is your hope?’
Why Chalk ‘Hope’?
Hope is a universal concept that resonates with people across all walks of life. Writing “Hope” or “Hope25” in bold, visible locations—like footpaths, church steps, or schoolyards—can immediately capture attention and curiosity. Passersby, students, and visitors may stop to ponder the message, perhaps even asking questions like, “What’s this about?”
Such moments offer a natural opportunity for churches to explain the significance of hope in their faith. They can share that Hope25 is part of a nationwide effort to focus on the hope offered through Jesus Christ, emphasizing renewal, restoration, and connection during the Easter and Pentecost season.
Encouraging Engagement
- Visibility and Outreach: By marking public-facing spaces, churches and schools extend their message to the broader community. Those unfamiliar with church activities might feel intrigued and welcomed by this non-threatening display of creativity.
- Conversation Starters: Whether at school pick-up zones or on a church property, chalk art can provoke curiosity. Educators or church members can be ready to share their own stories of hope and how their faith sustains them in difficult times.
- Youth Involvement: Engaging children and youth groups in chalking the messages can instill a sense of ownership and enthusiasm for Hope25. It also offers a fun, hands-on activity that reinforces the values of sharing and creativity.
Linking Hope to Faith
One of the primary goals of Hope25 is to give parishes a platform to share the hope found in God. For Christians, hope is not merely wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in God’s promises. As individuals ask, “Why Hope?” churches can explain its Biblical basis—drawing on verses like Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
By connecting the concept of hope with personal testimonies or stories of transformation, congregations can make this abstract idea more relatable and inspiring.
Practical Tips for a Chalk Campaign
- Choose High-Traffic Areas: Focus on places where your message will be seen, such as sidewalks, parking lots, and near playgrounds.
- Get Creative: Use vibrant colors, add symbols like crosses or hearts, and include phrases like “What does hope mean to you?” or “Ask us about Hope25!”
- Coordinate with Events: Link the chalk messages to specific Hope25 activities, such as prayer nights, community gatherings, or Easter services, to provide next steps for engagement.
- Make It Social: Encourage participants to take pictures of their creations and share them online with the hashtag #Hope25, amplifying the reach beyond the immediate community.
A Lasting Message
This simple act of chalking “Hope” serves as a visual reminder of the Church’s mission to spread light in times of uncertainty. Through Hope25, Anglican churches (and schools?) have a meaningful opportunity to engage with their communities, demonstrating that hope is alive and well—and available to all through faith.
By bringing the word Hope into public spaces, churches not only promote their programs but also remind people that hope can be found in God’s love and the shared mission of building a better, faith-filled future.