What is The Shelter?

Shel·ter

 noun \ˈshel-tər\ A: something that covers or affords protection  B: an establishment providing food and shelter 

The Shelter may mean many things to many people, but for someone hiking deep in the backcountry of the Great Smoky Mountains it has a very significant meaning. One of our young adults at Wallace, who recently through-hiked the entire Appalachian Trial, will tell you that shelters serve, among many, two very important needs. First, a shelter provides a place of protection from the elements and comfort for blistered feet. Second, a shelter grants a traveler a place to safely take inventory of gear and then equip and restock for the journey ahead.

These two primary functions inspired the name and mission of our new young adult gathering called, The Shelter. This time of focused teaching and open, thoughtful discussion begins this Sunday at 6pm in The Chapel of Wallace Memorial Baptist Church. The Shelter will not resemble a worship service…or a bible study for that matter. Here is my response to one person who asked what this gathering would be: "Imagine hearing something a preacher/teacher said and wanting to respectfully interrupt, ask a question or simply ponder a little while on the subject at hand…The Shelter will provide those opportunities." 

So first and foremost, The Shelter will be a safe place where young adults of all ages and life stages can "come in" from the elements of their lives and…take a deep breath. In addition, we will be a place where travelers on their life journey can "unpack" the truths of scripture and think "out loud" about its implications. We will also be a place that provides REAL food for REAL PEOPLE. By this I do not mean edible food (sorry for the disappointment), but the Bread of Life that can fill us up, challenge us, break us…and strengthen us. If we are going to restock for the coming week's challenges, we don't need a feel-good gospel with empty platitudes. We need the unchanging stability of the gospel found in The Word. 

So whether you are a college student, recent graduate, young professional, young married or single parent, come join us this Sunday evening for The Shelter. Discover protection, comfort, brokenness. Discover the gospel.


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