It was a day of new beginnings in North Nashville on Sunday, September 11, 2016 as the Encounter movement launched its second site, The Encounter@MetroCenter, with a preview service at the new headquarters of the United Methodist Publishing House.  The Encounter@MetroCenter is an extension ministry of McKendreee UMC that seeks to form intentionally diverse community shaped by elements of worship; vital, vulnerable, and authentic face to face conversations around tables; and transformative engagement in partnership with a neighborhood.  The Encounter@MetroCenter also provides breakout activities and programs for school-aged children.

Approximately thirty people gathered to sing spirituals, hymns and southern gospel and engage one another around tables on the intersection of faith and life.  It is a fresh expression of faith community  that, as Pastor Stephen Handy argues, is especially resonant in this current cultural moment. “I believe that people are thirsty for safe and sacred space where they can experience and celebrate diversity together,” Pastor Handy asserted.

The next meeting of The Encounter@MetroCenter will be Sunday, September 25 at 12:30pm.  For more information about the Encounter, other locations and maps click here.