Welcome to The Austin Stone South, a vibrant and growing community that has deeply rooted itself in the heart of Austin, Texas. Founded in 2013, this church emerged from a profound passion to love the city and its diverse people, embodying a commitment to spiritual growth and community engagement. Over the past decade, The Austin Stone South has journeyed from humble beginnings in a temporary space to establishing a permanent home, all while steadfastly upholding its core values and dedication to its mission.
This article delves into the rich history, foundational principles, and ongoing impact of The Austin Stone South. From its inception as a single congregation to becoming one of six locations under the broader Austin Stone Community Church, we will explore how this church has become a beacon of faith, fellowship, and service in South Austin, continually seeking to make a positive difference in the lives of its members and the wider community.
Table of Contents
- The Roots of The Austin Stone South: A Vision for Austin
- From Humble Beginnings to a Permanent Home
- One Church, Six Locations: The Austin Stone's Unified Vision
- Embracing Community: Services and Gatherings at The South Congregation
- Beyond the Walls: The Austin Stone's Impact on the City
- Discovering Austin: A City of Culture and Connection
- Planning Your Visit to The Austin Stone South
- What Real People Say: Community Voices
The Roots of The Austin Stone South: A Vision for Austin
The story of The Austin Stone Community Church, and by extension, The Austin Stone South, begins with a deep conviction and a small gathering. In 2002, Matt and Jen Carter hosted the very first gathering in their modest South Austin apartment. This initial assembly comprised just ten individuals, united by a common purpose: to establish a church firmly rooted in the Gospel. Their prayers were guided by Ephesians 3:20, seeking to combine profound theological truth with a heartfelt compassion for the city of Austin. This foundational vision laid the groundwork for what would become a multi-site church, deeply committed to its local communities. The passion to love Austin and its people has been the driving force behind every step of the journey, including the establishment of the South congregation.From Humble Beginnings to a Permanent Home
The journey of The Austin Stone South is a testament to perseverance and growth. Like many thriving communities, it began with a flexible approach, adapting to available spaces before settling into a dedicated location. This evolution speaks volumes about the congregation's commitment and the unwavering support of its members.The Paredes Middle School Era
For an entire decade, The Austin Stone South held its Sunday services within the familiar halls of Paredes Middle School. This period, spanning from its founding in 2013 until 2023, saw the congregation grow, build relationships, and deepen its commitment to Christ and one another, even within a temporary setting. Meeting in a school environment often presents unique challenges, from setting up and tearing down equipment each week to creating a consistent atmosphere. However, it also fosters a spirit of adaptability and resourcefulness, allowing the church to focus on its mission rather than its physical building. This decade at Paredes Middle School was crucial in shaping the identity and resilience of The Austin Stone South.Establishing a Permanent Sanctuary
A significant milestone arrived in 2023 when The Austin Stone South moved into its permanent location. This transition marked a new chapter, providing a dedicated space for worship, community events, and outreach initiatives. The new address, 10100 S Mary Moore Searight Dr in Austin, Texas 78748, now serves as a central hub for the South congregation. While the physical location changed, the core commitment remained strong. As Josh Hunter, the congregation pastor, noted, "Welcome to The Austin Stone South... While we've experienced many changes, our commitment to Christ and one another remains strong." This new home signifies not just a building, but a solidified presence and an enhanced capacity to serve the community for years to come.One Church, Six Locations: The Austin Stone's Unified Vision
The Austin Stone is not merely a single church; it is a unified body meeting in six distinct locations throughout Austin, TX. This multi-site model allows the church to effectively reach different parts of the city, bringing its message of worshiping Jesus and making His name known to a broader audience. Each location, including The Austin Stone South, operates under the same overarching vision and leadership, ensuring consistency in theological truth and compassionate outreach. This strategic approach enables the church to maintain a strong central identity while fostering localized communities that can address the specific needs and characteristics of their respective neighborhoods. The growth from a small apartment gathering to six thriving congregations, including the significant presence of The Austin Stone South, underscores the church's impactful journey. It's worth noting that the church's expansion has been organic and responsive to the city's growth. For instance, back in 2011, two churches merged to become the West congregation of The Austin Stone, illustrating a pattern of strategic unification and growth that has characterized the entire Austin Stone movement. This unified yet localized structure allows for both broad impact and deep community connection.Embracing Community: Services and Gatherings at The South Congregation
At the heart of The Austin Stone South's mission is the cultivation of a vibrant and welcoming community. The South congregation of The Austin Stone actively gathers for worship services every Sunday, providing consistent opportunities for spiritual nourishment and fellowship. These gatherings are held at two convenient times: 9 AM and 11 AM, accommodating various schedules for individuals and families in South Austin. The atmosphere is designed to be inclusive, fostering an environment where both long-time members and newcomers feel at home. Beyond Sunday services, the church emphasizes the importance of consistent and intentional Christian friendships. Groups at The Austin Stone are a cornerstone of this philosophy, designed to facilitate deeper connections among members. These groups aim to foster collective growth in loving God, supporting the church, serving the city, and engaging with the nations. Activities extend beyond regular services, including events like summer family game nights, complete with board games, trivia, interactive games, snacks, and drinks, all designed to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories within the community. The emphasis on these smaller, intentional gatherings highlights the church's belief that genuine community is built through shared experiences and mutual support.Beyond the Walls: The Austin Stone's Impact on the City
The Austin Stone, including its South congregation, understands that its mission extends far beyond the confines of its physical buildings. The church is deeply committed to serving and impacting the wider city of Austin and even the world, living out its passion to make Jesus's name known. This commitment manifests in various forms, from providing spiritual resources to fostering community engagement and outreach initiatives.Resources for Spiritual Growth
To equip and inspire individuals in their walk with Jesus, The Austin Stone offers a wealth of resources. These include both printed materials and digital content, catering to diverse needs and preferences. Whether someone is seeking a devotional guide for daily reflection, a book of liturgies for structured worship, or a theological paper for deeper study, these resources are carefully developed to support spiritual growth. This commitment to providing accessible and robust theological content underscores the church's dedication to nurturing informed and engaged believers. By making these resources available, The Austin Stone empowers its members to delve deeper into their faith, fostering a more profound understanding and application of Christian principles in their daily lives.Cultivating Authentic Friendships Through Groups
A significant aspect of The Austin Stone's impact is its emphasis on small groups. These groups are not merely social gatherings but are intentionally designed to cultivate authentic Christian friendships. The goal is to create spaces where individuals can consistently connect, support one another, and collectively pursue their faith journey. The groups are structured around shared commitments: to love God, to serve the church, to engage with the needs of the city, and to participate in global missions. This focus on deep, relational discipleship ensures that members are not just passive attendees but active participants in a supportive network. These friendships become the backbone of the church's outreach, enabling members to collectively address community needs and share their faith in tangible ways.Discovering Austin: A City of Culture and Connection
The Austin Stone South is nestled in a city renowned for its vibrant culture, unique identity, and welcoming atmosphere. Austin, TX, often celebrated as the "Live Music Capital of the World®," offers an eclectic mix of experiences that attract both locals and visitors alike. Understanding the city's character helps to appreciate the context in which The Austin Stone South operates, as the church seeks to engage with and serve this dynamic environment.Austin's Unique Offerings: Music, Outdoors, and More
Beyond its legendary music scene, Austin boasts a rich tapestry of activities and attractions. Visitors and residents can explore top things to do, from refreshing swimming holes and expansive parks to fascinating museums and a diverse culinary landscape featuring delicious food trucks and dynamic restaurants. The city is a hub for outdoor recreation, offering numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature. Esteemed institutions like the University of Texas at Austin showcase where academia meets innovation, while cultural gems like the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and the Blanton Museum provide enriching experiences. Austin also hosts world-class annual festivals such as SXSW, ACL Music Festival, and the Austin Film Festival, drawing global attention. For sports enthusiasts, major events like Formula 1, the Austin Marathon, and NASCAR at COTA add to the city's appeal. This blend of live music, outdoor adventures, eclectic shopping, and a thriving food scene makes Austin a genuinely unique destination. The city's cultural richness provides a fertile ground for community engagement, something The Austin Stone South actively embraces in its outreach efforts. You can sign up to receive a free Austin Visitors Guide for local expertise and trip planning inspiration, further highlighting the city's welcoming nature.Planning Your Visit to The Austin Stone South
For those interested in experiencing The Austin Stone South firsthand, planning a visit is straightforward. The South congregation meets every Sunday at 9 AM and 11 AM, offering flexibility for attendees. The permanent location, situated at 10100 S Mary Moore Searight Dr in Austin, Texas 78748, is easily accessible for residents of South Austin and beyond. Whether you're seeking a new church home, exploring faith, or simply curious about the community, you'll find a welcoming environment. The church's online presence, including its social media channels, provides additional information and updates. With 832 likes and 902 check-ins on platforms like Facebook, it's clear that The Austin Stone South has a visible and engaged community. Visiting on a Sunday allows you to experience the worship services, hear from the pastoral team, and get a sense of the fellowship that defines this vibrant congregation. The emphasis on genuine connection means visitors are often encouraged to explore joining a small group to truly integrate into the church family.What Real People Say: Community Voices
The true measure of a community often lies in the experiences of those who are part of it. Platforms like Yelp provide a space for real people to share their reviews and insights about places, including churches. While specific reviews for The Austin Stone South on Yelp are not detailed in the provided data, the platform itself is described as a "fun and easy way to find, recommend and talk about what’s great and not so great in Austin and beyond." This suggests that community feedback is valued and contributes to the overall perception of the church. The strong social media engagement, with hundreds of likes and check-ins, further indicates a positive and active presence. These numbers reflect a community that is not only attending services but also actively engaging with the church online and sharing their experiences. This collective voice paints a picture of a church that resonates with its members, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. The consistent growth and establishment of a permanent location also speak volumes about the positive impact The Austin Stone South has had on its congregation and the wider Austin community.In conclusion, The Austin Stone South stands as a testament to a vision born in a small apartment, nurtured through a decade in a temporary space, and now thriving in its permanent home. Its journey from 2013 to today showcases an unwavering commitment to its founding passion: to love Austin and its people. With Pastor Josh Hunter at the helm, the South congregation continues to embody the broader Austin Stone mission of worshiping Jesus and making His name known, not just within its walls but throughout the city and the world.
From its consistent Sunday services at 9 AM and 11 AM to its robust network of community groups, The Austin Stone South offers a place for spiritual growth, authentic friendships, and meaningful engagement. As it continues to serve the vibrant and unique city of Austin, its impact is felt through its dedicated members, its comprehensive resources, and its unwavering focus on the Gospel. We invite you to explore more about The Austin Stone South, perhaps by visiting a Sunday service or connecting with their community online. What are your thoughts on community-focused churches in growing cities like Austin? Share your insights in the comments below!
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