Tennessee Tattoo Parlor Becomes a District of Hope

KNOXVILLE NEWS SENTINEL
By Melissa Priode

Hope District owner Stephanie Cobb shows off one of her faith-based tattoos.

TENNESSEE - The Hope District, a custom tattoo shop and body piercing studio in Halls, is using its art as the most permanent form of evangelism possible. Bibles in the shop's display case and religious art on the walls may have folks wondering if they are in the right place, since the tattoo industry has the stigma of being dark and macabre. But it's clear that scripture- and cross-adorned Andrew and Stephanie Cobb aren't traditional tattoo shop owners. "In the last couple of years, I've realized my calling to use this to minister to people and to glorify God. It's given to me by Him, it's not anything I have achieved or done on my own," Andrew said. "It's a means to reach people who may never set foot in a church." In 2009, they changed the name of their business to the Hope District because it summed up the mission they wanted to institute. The couple began using evangelical principles in their work and attempting to alleviate negative connotations associated with the tattooing industry and with those who have tattoos. [link]