Billy and Ruth Graham’s dream has been a vibrant reality–a place where people leave the demands of daily life, study God’s word, and are trained to share their faith in Jesus Christ.
Each year, thousands participate in a wide variety of life-changing seminars. The program for this 20th season is no exception–featuring internationally known speakers such as worship leader Darlene Zschech (writer of “Shout to the Lord”), psychologist and author Dr. Larry Crabb, and NBA chaplain and senior pastor Tony Evans.
Recently a longtime resident of Asheville attended his first seminar at The Cove and was moved by his experience. “The moment you drive through the gate, you feel like you are on a different planet because of the love of God shown by everyone who works here,” the gentleman wrote. “We came here to restore our faith, and this has helped us so much.”
Although it is best known for its soul-lifting seminars, The Cove is also host to a wide variety of guest groups who take advantage of the wonderful setting to hold their own meetings and activities. Numerous Christian churches and non-profit ministries have benefited from the superb staff, the award-winning auditorium and facilities, and The Cove’s convenient location in Asheville, N.C.
BGEA Special Events
In addition to outside groups, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association hosts a number of special events at The Cove each year. In June, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team will be providing training for those interested in sharing God’s love and hope to those suffering in times of crisis.
Two Billy Graham Schools of Evangelism will be held this year at The Cove, offering training for pastors and church leaders on local church evangelism concepts that work today, with special attention to the needs of medium and smaller churches.
Finally, “SeniorCelebrations” hosted by longtime Billy Graham team member Cliff Barrows have been a hit among the 55 and older set, by addressing the specific concerns of seniors today and offering teaching from God’s word to help participants live for Christ.
Special Treats for Local Folks
Besides hosting groups and individuals from across the country and around the world, The Cove is also doing some very special things for the local community in Asheville and the surrounding area.
“Evenings at The Cove” offer a delicious gourmet dinner followed by an uplifting concert program put on by national recording artists. The 2008 schedule features gospel singer Larnelle Harris, comedian Chonda Pierce, CCM artist Steve Green, vocal group Selah, and worship leader Charles Billingsley.
Started in the early 1990s, a “Women’s Bible Study” group provides an opportunity each year to study God’s word at The Cove, Tuesday mornings from January through March. This year’s group had an average attendance of 300 people. Many women have shared that they came alone but left with a host of new friends and their lives transformed.
The Cove is open year-round to visitors Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the Visitor Center at the Chatlos Memorial Chapel is free, and thousands of visitors take advantage of this each year. Volunteers provide guided tours for individuals and groups.
Most importantly, hundreds of people each year make commitments to follow Jesus Christ at The Cove–and that is perhaps the greatest testimony to the beauty and power of this enduring ministry.
You can learn more at The Cove website.
