Today we’d like to introduce you to The Petunia House.
Hi The Petunia House, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
When I (Sarah Bennett) first visited Dallas, I felt a clear prompting to plant roots and create space for young people to grow in community—and in a miraculous turn, the very first house I put an offer on became home. That first year was full of small, meaningful moments: worship nights with cookies, a women’s group of five, game nights, basketball at the park, family dinners, and late-night tea talks on the couch. As the community deepened, we launched Open Table, partnered with other ministries like Covenant Men, hosted more worship nights, and began gathering in other homes. By the third year, creativity, connecting with local church leaders, and seeing our people become part of the larger church body in Dallas. It’s been a journey of trust, obedience, and joy—watching God build something far greater than I imagined when I said yes to a house and a dream.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road—one of the biggest challenges has been cultivating a space of intimacy and consistency while people are constantly coming and going. We’ve had to learn how to remain open and inviting without losing the depth and safety that makes community meaningful. As friendships evolved into leadership and decision-making dynamics, we had to navigate interpersonal tensions with care—there’s been a lot of relational effort behind the scenes, and we’ve all learned from mistakes. These moments became reps for us in navigating conflict and creating a culture of safety and trust. Working closely with our leadership team also taught us the value of healthy communication and establishing rhythms of rest, both for ourselves and for those we serve. We’ve leaned into the Matthew 18 model with a heart for unity, knowing that lasting community takes both grace and intentionality.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Our work centers around creating spaces for authentic connection with God and others through co-ed and gender-specific Bible studies, retreats, creative gatherings, and fun community events. From women’s and men’s groups to Open Table and Friendsgiving, we’re intentional about providing environments where people can build friendships, encounter God, and find family. Open Table is a quarterly shared dinner that brings together people from different walks of life—and different churches—for a night of food, laughter, and meaningful conversation. Many who feel uncomfortable in traditional church settings have found these gatherings to be a safe and transformative space, often becoming a landing place for the hurting and searching. What sets us apart is the unity we foster among believers across the Church of Dallas—different churches dwelling together in love and purpose. We’re proud to cultivate a community where faith, creativity, and belonging meet in a way that helps people feel truly seen and supported.
What does success mean to you?
At the heart of everything we do is a deep love for Jesus and a commitment to following Him fully, even when it means laying our lives down for the gospel. We’re passionate about helping people encounter God and find their place in His family. More than just events or gatherings, our mission is to set people into belonging—into a community that reflects the heart of Christ. For us, successful family looks like people being free to be themselves, encouraged to pursue the dreams God’s placed in their hearts, and willing to engage conflict in love that leads to deeper intimacy. Laying your life down for Jesus takes on a specific, tangible form in our community—it looks like showing up, serving one another, and creating space for transformation. These are the signposts of a thriving, Christ-centered family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thepetuniahouse.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petuniahouse/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/petuniahouse
