2020 introduced new “normals” to our world—screen to screen interactions, the Zoom mullet (business on top, comfy on the bottom), staying six feet apart, and watching church online (or, let’s be real, watching church while folding the laundry). Attention spans shortened and intentionality grew fuzzy, frayed edges threatening to lose all focus. The year of 2020 also introduced renewed awareness that connecting with one another is crucial for our emotional, mental, and physical health. 

For Long Hollow Church, 2020 birthed a project that promises to engage and support the North Nashville community: the Legacy Park outdoor environment. After nearly a year of dreaming and planning, the staff presented the concept for Legacy Park in the fall of 2021, although it was a collective effort from the entire Long Hollow Community. 

The entire project included some internal remodeling, such as an Information Area and Legacy Coffee House addition, as well as the outdoor environment. The Legacy Park was debuted to the public during a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, May 10th, 2023. 

The soggy Spring weather lifted in perfect timing for the celebration as families enjoyed food truck fixings, lawn games, and children’s activities. The hum of all the fun nearly drowned out Eric Murrell, Director of Strategic Development at Long Hollow, as he said, “God was definitely in this. We plan months in advance, and there’s no way to determine what the weather will do.” 

The large turn turnout for the celebration made it clear that Legacy Park will live up to its name. 

The park includes two playgrounds, pickleball and basketball courts, an expansive turf lawn, firepits, and covered outdoor seating. “We have this great space and great environment that we want to share with the community,” says Murrell.

“We want the community to feel comfortable here, like it’s a space for them, an extension of their backyard. A place where people can gather whenever they want, not having an official program happening in order for them to benefit from the space.” 

Safe space, zero agenda. 

When the next sunny day beckons, Murrell encourages you to check out this amazing space. Whether you’re a young family wanting a safe playground to release excess energy, someone who just wants to enjoy a cup of coffee outdoors, or you’re pickleball pro, come visit Legacy Park. There’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the amenities. 

Legacy Park is open to the public from 6am-10pm daily and is located on Long Hollow Church grounds at 3031 Long Hollow Pike, Hendersonville, TN.

“Long Hollow Church, founded in 1978, is a local group of believers whose mission is to live out our God-given calling as we follow Jesus and make disciples every day. More info about Long Hollow is available online at https://longhollow.com”.