The Haven offers safe place for people to worship

By Jan White
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CROCKETT –On Tuesday, March 7, The Haven opened its doors to welcome residents of Houston County to the building located at 304 East Houston Avenue in Crockett.

Local Pastor, Leon Wallace, explained the vision behind The Haven. “I’ve always wanted to do something like this, But it was really the Asbury revival that set it in motion. It inspired us all to draw closer to the Lord and see our city and our country impacted positively for Jesus. I wanted a place where people could just go and pray, talk to God, and relax in His presence. And I felt the Lord was encouraging me to step out into it.”

Wallace says he started looking on Saturday, found the building on Monday, and had a contract on it by Tuesday. The facility will soon be available 24/7. Right now, it’s open to the public from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will eventually be accessible through a coded entry door. There are security cameras around the premises, and Wallace hopes to have volunteers working the reception area both during and after hours.

“I want it to be open around the clock so people can come anytime. And they can choose how long they stay – whether it’s five minutes or five hours. And no one will be here trying to solicit you. There won’t be any ‘in your face’ evangelism.’ That way everybody feels safe. You’re not going to be assaulted. Nobody’s going to ask you any questions. Nobody’s going to say hey, can I pray for you? It’s just a place to gather, free from the pressure of others to conform to their ideas of Christianity. It’s a place designated for anyone hungry for more of the Lord on a personal level. It’s a place where you and your friends can gather. A place you could visit before or after work., or even during your lunch hour. We just want people to feel comfortable here.”

The space is divided into several meeting areas. The comfortable furniture, low lighting, and soft background music promote an atmosphere of peace.

It’s kid-friendly, and it’s equipped with a kitchen, snacks, and a restroom. There are also two small, private prayer rooms for individuals or families.

“One of the rooms,” Wallace said, “is specifically designed for the men in the community to have the opportunity to come and spend a night with the Lord. We have this comfortable recliner and a computer station for them to use. And then there’ll be a little fridge in here.” Another of the areas features a piano keyboard, “So people can worship with music. And you know, if  somebody wanted to come up do a little music set or worship set, they can advertise and invite the community. And with the large parking area next door, individuals or groups could set up outdoor worship venues or concerts.”

He was also adamant about not wanting the building to be associated with a particular church. “I see it to be a gift to the community,” Wallace said. Because the idea comes with a price tag of about $1,800 to $2k a month plus utilities, Wallace hopes that others in Houston County will share his vision and become sponsors. “This isn’t just for Crockett,” he said. “It’s for all of Houston County.”

“You know it’s a sign that something is right when it comes together really fast like this did.” When asked why he named the site, The Haven, Wallace explained. “The word haven is used only twice in the bible. It means a ‘safe place’ or a place of refuge. I think it’s a perfect name for a location where all of Houston County is invited to meditate, pray, read, sing, or spend time alone or in groups with the Lord.”