KNOXVILLE – When the leadership of a new church coming to Knoxville prepared to open their doors this past spring, they had no idea that a pandemic would delay, challenge and ultimately shape the mission of the church. Heart and Soul Church had planned to open their doors in April, but all that changed with the COVID19 restrictions and the members of the fledgling church were forced to adapt to the new environment.



Pastor Austin Coleman says that through zoom and social distanced meetings the church was able to recruit 150 “Heaven Bringers,” as the church calls its members, to establish the church when it could eventually open its doors. “I believe that God will use this team to fill Heaven from Knoxville and to help people find their place, their people and their purpose.” says Pastor Coleman.



Opening day finally arrived for the young church when they opened at Bearden High School. Services are also streamed at the Heart and Soul facebook page.

Even before opening its doors, the church has been in the community reaching others. Members have been helping with community cleanup and helping schools prepare for students in the COVID19 environment. Pastor Coleman says that's because the church has every intention of living up to its name: “We named the church Heart and Soul because the desire of our hearts is ultimately to see those far from God come to Jesus and we can do whatever we can to help, support and reach those people. Coleman adds “This is a ‘come as you are’ church for those who are broken, hurting, and imperfect. We’re even the church for those who don't like church.”