Dear Friends,
Nine years ago the Lord gave us a vision to build a special community where young Christians in their 20s could learn to follow Jesus. We imagined building a community of guides - older more experienced Christians who would mentor, teach and love the young adults who came to us. We imagined a property, a generous place, made for fellowship, for big tables, for meals, for quiet conversations around the fire, for teaching, prayer, and sitting quietly with the Lord. We imagined the lives that would be forever transformed and the impact that a young adult could have with 50+ years of life and Christian service still ahead.
Today that vision is a reality in South Africa. There is a farm and a house where young leaders from many nations, colors and backgrounds come to grow as followers of Jesus.
In the context of post-apartheid South Africa, East Mountain provides a place for young adults to move from shacks to University or meaningful work as they grow in their love for Jesus and his Kingdom. -Thank you to those who have so faithfully supported East Mountain's work here over these years!
This month that vision is becoming a reality again, in South Carolina. A generous friend’s gift made it possible for us to secure a loan for a 19 acre farm and 6 bedroom farmhouse. In this context there aren’t people living in shacks -but there are young adults who are hurting and in need of help. In March 2020, we will open an East Mountain house in Greenville.
Our initial focus will be young adults who have served this country in the military and young professionals. Through partnerships with existing organizations serving in the community, East Mountain Greenville will offer a significant opportunity for veterans and other young adults to find their identity in Christ as they navigate this key transition time in life. As we grow in capacity, we will also serve others in the area through retreats, workshops and other opportunities to grow in whole and purposeful life with Jesus.
I invite you to come visit and stay at the property. We will have a guest room that we hope is perpetually occupied by friends like you who want to experience East Mountain’s unique blend of community, hospitality and respite.
Blessings in 2020,
Gabe & EM team