The original home of renowned evangelists Billy and Ruth Graham in Montreat, North Carolina, has been designated to ministry leaders to rest, retreat, and recover.
Billy’s home was where the late evangelist had written most of his great sermons. Now, thanks to the efforts of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), the property has been repurposed as a place of solace for Christian leaders in need of respite. Billy’s Home Place Ministry resulted in success with the efforts of partners like Charlotte, N.C. businessman Stephen L. Thomas, actor Kirk Cameron, and writer/speaker Ruth Graham who is the third daughter of Billy and Ruth Graham. The family home is now being used as a retreat ground for men, women, and families who have been in the ministry for 15 years and above.
Sources had it that the house was purchased in the 1940s and it was where Billy and Ruth had raised their children, Franklin, Anne, Gigi, Ned, and Ruth. The home is said to be free for ministers who need retreat and restoration.
As much as the home is a place of restoration for vocational ministers, it was also initiated to preserve the legacy of Graham as “American Pastor”, according to the home place website. The goal of the home was also simply said to be “To help everyone who steps into Billy and Ruth’s original home apply the same truths of God’s word to each of our lives. So, like Billy, we can change the world around us!”
It further said; “Billy’s Home Place has a foundation of a man that sought God’s will and had first-hand experience to God’s power and blessings over his life. Billy’s Home Place co-founder, Stephen L. Thomas shared why his passion to continue Dr. Graham’s legacy was so strong. He explained “Many fail to believe that God has a deep call on our lives ; that he wants to use His people in special ways. Failure to be used by God is never because of God’s idleness towards us but because our neglect in pursuing him. We often believe God will take something away from us or worse, call us to a place that we are not prepared for!”
The ministry leaders’ retreat features bedrooms, a spacious living area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and ample outdoor space for quiet contemplation. The property is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the nearby mountains, providing a serene environment that’s perfect for reflection and relaxation.
The Billy and Ruth Graham ministry leaders’ retreat is now open and available for booking by qualified Christian leaders. It is expected to become a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the demands of their ministry work, and a chance to recharge and refresh their spirits.