Peculiar on Purpose is a Christian organization that gets its inspiration from 1 Peter 2:9: "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
The Goal
The goal is to let single and married women know that there is a purpose to being single, and the same can be a blessing if, whether single or married, a person uses her status to know God more.
Encouraging people to establish a personal and intimate relationship with the Lord, Lauryn Hill, in their website, is quoted as saying, "It's not a burden to love Him, and represent Him, and be who you are . . . as fly, and as hot, and like whatever. And to still love God and serve Him. It's not a contradiction."
The Event
December 11, at 1:00 - 2:00 p.m., is the date and time for the much-awaited "Cute and Connected" event for single and married women ages 25 to 40. The venue will be emailed to participants upon successfully completing their registration.
Peculiar on Purpose says that "Cute and Connected" is one of their monthly gatherings for "women to develop relatable connections as we engage in transparent, relevant, and edifying conversations."
Making Friends
In connection, the organization provides a platform for single women to make friends with like-minded individuals who also love the Lord. As a venue to connect with other Christian women, POP creates a safe space to establish friendly relationships to help them grow in Christ.
Why Peculiar
Shala, the creator of POP, explains why they chose Peculiar on Purpose as their organization's name.
Describing herself as "black, millennial, naturalist, creative, and Christian," she says that she does not see herself entirely represented in social circles. She feels peculiar because what makes her who she is is not appropriately discussed in shows, blogs, events, and many others.
She laments, saying, "I feel like my views, interests, and lifestyle choices don't always 'fit in.'"
Taking inspiration from 1 Peter 2:9, she explains that the word "peculiar" used here by Peter means that God has claimed those who believe in Christ to be his treasure. As such, Christian women have been set apart by the Lord for a special purpose. However, this very thing is what causes Christian women to struggle with their identity.
Role of Women
Women, however, played special roles in the Bible. Kristi Woods, in an article, says, "We read about women like Deborah, who held the valued and highly respected position of judge in Israel. As a result of her decisions, the Israelites experienced peace for 40 years."
She also mentioned Rahab, who, although Gentile, is honored to be named in the lineage of Jesus. Then there is also Hannah, who was the mother of Samuel, who led the Hebrew people back to God.
Women may have struggled with their identities, but God certainly has a special purpose for them.