Water's Edge holds first service at Lake Hartwell, 'worship not about having four walls'

For most people, attending church means going to a place of worship in their neighborhood. For the non-profit Water's Edge Summer Ministry, worship occurs outdoors on Lake Hartwell.

Sunday morning, churchgoers came by boats and cars shoreside to hear the word of God and give praise in a unique setting surrounded by nature, wildlife, and water.

Sunday, May 26, marked the first service for the third season of Water's Edge Summer Ministry at Lake Hartwell, which began at 9:30 a.m.

"As we look around us this morning, it's impossible not to feel God's presence," Worship Leader Sherry Lewis said. "The trees, the water, and the beauty of nature are God's creations. Worship is not about having four walls. It's about listening to the voice of the Lord."

This Sunday's service was dedicated to Luke Chapter Eight, highlighting how Jesus provided safety and security for those in need during their distress.

Lewis cited a Bible verse, Luke 8:1-15, where Jesus and his disciples travel throughout cities and villages, preaching the good news. She emphasized how faith in Jesus can bring about a sense of protection and divine favor.

What is Water's Edge Ministry?

Water's Edge Summer Ministry is a non-profit church serving the Lake Hartwell community.

Services are held at 9:30 a.m. on Sundays through Labor Day weekend at Tiger Cove,4023 Whitehall Road.

Water's Edge Summer Ministry church services are open to Lake Hartwell residents, weekend visitors, and anyone in the area.

Attendees can come by boat or car, bring a chair, and sit shoreside. 

Lewis is the lead worship leader, with rotating pastors leading each service.

"Water's Edge Ministry provides a unique opportunity for those who are involved in lake life and are unable to attend traditional church services," singer and board member Allyson Terrell said.

"By bringing the church to lakeside, individuals can come as they are and fully participate in a religious community, filling a void they may have been missing," she said.

Moment of silence: Rayan Al-Nasser and Zakaria Chaar

During Sunday's service, Lewis offered a prayer and asked for a moment of silence for teenagers Rayan Al-Nasser and Zakaria Chaar, who drowned in Lake Hartwell after jumping off a bridge on Saturday, May 18.

She expressed deep sorrow for the tragic accident and offered comfort to their grieving families and friends.

Lewis reminded the congregation of the importance of cherishing life and supporting one another during grief and loss.

Vocals by Allyson Terrell

Singer and Board Member Allyson Terrell blessed the congregation with her vocals, singing various Christian faith songs and country music, such as "Bless God," the traditional hymn "It's So Sweet to Trust in Jesus," and "Oceans." 

As boats gathered near the cove, the scenery of Lake Hartwell provided a peaceful backdrop while attendees listened to Terrell's vocals across the water.

The sounds of the waves, birds singing, and fish swimming allowed worshippers to feel a deep connection with their spirituality and God.

Anderson natives Todd Pearson and his wife Linda sat surfside and watched the service.

"We have been attending Water's Edge Ministry for the past three years," Todd said. "We love being outdoors because it provides safety and fresh air. We really enjoy what they are doing here on Lake Hartwell."

Blessings of the Fleet

The blessing of the fleet is a centuries-old tradition originating in southern Europe's Catholic fishing communities.

A local priest's blessing was meant to ensure a safe and bountiful season.

Lewis joined Billy Owens, the leader of the Power Squadron, on the boat they call "Sidewaze" for the Blessing of the Fleet.

Attendees traveled to the mouth of the cove. Lewis sent the congregation off with prayers, invoked a blessing on each vessel as they passed by, and sprinkled holy water from Jerusalem onto the boats, symbolizing protection and divine favor for the upcoming summer season.

As the sun glistened on the water and Terrell sang, attendees rejoiced and applauded while boats floated off. 

Water's Edge Summer Ministry founded by female friends

Water's Edge Summer Ministry was founded in 2022 by female friends -- Allyson Terrell, Rachel Parr, Sherry Lewis, Angie Gary, Robbin Sykes and Linda Meyler -- during the COVID-19 pandemic after churches closed.

"The goal of Water's Edge Summer Ministry is to provide a unique and refreshing worship experience on Lake Hartwell by combining the beauty of nature with the love of God and the power of community," board member Rachael Parr said.

The church is currently in its third season. 

"God has put us together, and the community has embraced and welcomed us with open arms," Parr said.

For prayer requests, information, volunteering, or online giving, check out the website watersedge.info.

Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at trose@gannett.com.