Mary Kate Hester
I grew up in Bon Air and later attended Virginia Tech, where I met my husband, Ben. We’ve now been married for 30 years and are grateful parents to three adult children—Noah (24), who is married to Libby, Lindsey (23), and Lily Grace (21). They are such a blessing to us.
We began attending HOPE in 2012 and loved it from the start. Over the years, we’ve been thankful to connect through a vibrant small group, to facilitate a table at Book on Love, and to serve in Hope Kids. One of our sweetest gifts is worshiping alongside so many members of our extended family who also attend HOPE.
I have a heart for coming alongside people who are hurting, and I hold closely 2 Corinthians 1:4: “He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Studying God’s word and talking with Him is one of my greatest joys. I love listening for the nudges of the Holy Spirit and marveling at the ways He works.
Professionally, I’ve been connected to the housing industry in various roles since college, and for the past seven years, I’ve had the joy of working with my dad in managing a private lending business. Outside of work, I walk alongside women in recovery from substance use disorder and serve women coming out of trafficking or domestic violence at The LighthouseRVA. In my spare time, I love being outdoors—running, gardening, walking, and hiking whenever I can.