Beth Sar Shalom Church opens

From left, Melissa Carrera, Pastor David Carrera, Graciela Carrera, Jonathan Carrera and David Carrera Jr. (T-G Photo by Jaime Welsh) [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

Minister David Carrera, who just recently finished mission work in Chile and Peru, along with other supporters, has begun a new independent Christian church on April Lane.

Beth Sar Shalom Church is Hebrew for "The House of the Prince of Peace."

The church held a dedication service Saturday night for its supporters.

The service included a welcome from Carrera, a sermon given by the Rev. Mark Hall, and worship music.

Food and dessert was also furnished for visitors.

One of the main objectives for the church is to teach preachers about Bible-based principles, Carrera said. "We're involved in a massive attempt to train preachers ... they need to learn and teach from the Bible."

Carrera, who is from Ecuador, said he was inspired by Dr. R.C. Sproul, president of Ligonier Ministries, who produced videos on theology to share with the Spanish-speaking church community.

"We want to keep the blessings coming in the community ... I believe people will be blessed to know that we're doing something special," Carrera said.

Beth Sar Shalom Church has around 220 regular attendees.

Carrera first came to Shelbyville 10 years ago when First Baptist Church began its Spanish-language ministry.