Our First Lady

Mrs. Felicia Epting is a native of Chicago, IL, the wife of Rev. Steve M. Epting, Sr., and the First Lady of Hope Community Church. First Lady Epting strives to be an example of a virtuous woman — a woman who is yields to God in every aspect of her life.

First Lady Felicia is a graduate of Western Illinois University [Macomb, IL] where she received a B.A. and M.A. in Broadcast Communications. After receiving a Master of Arts Degree in Education from Concordia University [River Forest, IL], she entered the work force as a teacher for the Chicago Public School System.  As an Educator, a ministry First Lady Felicia does not take lightly, her task include middle school Reading/Language Arts Teacher, Reading Specialist, as well as Co-Chair of the Middle School Department.

“My husband, my children and my grandson are most relevant. I hold them very dear to my heart. They are so important that I live for them, wanting to please them and wanting to be a support to them.” – Felicia Epting

Having met her soulmate and future husband, Rev. Steve M. Epting, Sr. in college, they united as one in February, 1990. Together they have been blessed with two children, Steve Jr. and Sydney; and one precious grandson, Shane.

First Lady Felicia is truly a humble and faithful witness for Christ. She has a genuine concern for God’s people and demonstrates it through her walk. She devotes herself to ministry by sharing her personal testimony and teaching others to have faith and to stand on God’s Word. First Lady Felicia is well regarded for her many gifts and talents, including singing praise to The King and teaching the Word of God.

First Lady Felicia has a huge heart for her Hope Church family, and the various people she encounters in her daily walk. Having a strong belief that ‘faith without works is dead’, she works diligently to strengthen the Kingdom of God. She serves as a “Big Sister” in Hope’s WE W.I.N. (We Women-In-Need) Prayer Ministry. This ministry of united Prayer Warriors who pray earnestly for the needs of women both inside and outside of Hope Community Church. Mrs. Epting is a powerful Sunday School Instructor, a motivator, and role model. The regal feeling experienced after having a one-on-one conversation with First Lady Felicia leaves one feeling reassured and capable of conquering the world. She provides Godly counsel with mom-like advice; she simply states “seek God” and “hang in there!”

Her love for people exudes beyond being the First Lady of Hope Church. First Lady Felicia serves as Chaplain of the Joliet Area South Suburban Alumnae Chapter (JASSAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. 

Though she strays from the title “First Lady” her love for God, her family, and the Body of Christ allows her to embody her many gifts and talents and enables her to fulfill the numerous roles God has placed before her.

“As a wife of a pastor, my job is to support him, undergird him, and encourage him. It is not for me to jump out in front of him and look for accolades and pats on the back.” – Mrs. Epting

First Lady Felicia Epting is an awesome Woman of God who encourages and inspires the lives of others… and for that, we are grateful.