Eric Valentine serves as our Vicar, where he brings a grounded, relational, and authentic approach to ministry. His journey to faith and leadership in the church has been anything but typical. Raised outside of organized religion, Vicar Eric spent many years away from the church before returning as an adult, a path that continues to shape his openness, humility, and ability to connect with people wherever they are in their own faith journeys.

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Vicar Eric is currently a seminarian at United Lutheran Seminary and is preparing for ordination in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Before entering ministry, he spent nearly three decades in business leadership, working in sales and marketing before earning a Master in Theology and Leadership from Gonzaga. Those experiences are evident in his strong communication style, thoughtful leadership, and practical approach to ministry and community engagement.

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As a single father of two teenagers, Eric’s ministry is deeply rooted in real life. He understands the challenges and joys of balancing family, work, and faith, and he brings that perspective into his preaching, teaching, and pastoral care. He has a natural ability to make faith accessible and relevant, often connecting scripture to everyday experiences in a way that feels both meaningful and hopeful.

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At Hope, Eric is known for his belief that the church is called to meet people where they are and to create space for genuine connection with "others", honest questions, and shared purpose. His ministry reflects a commitment to loving boldly, serving generously, and helping others discover that faith is not just something to believe, but something to live.