New life is breathed into the interior after renovations. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie) A bathroom after restoration. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie) A dining and kitchen area in the château. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie)The château is the Hildebrands’ home. It’s also a study abroad program where 20 to 25 college students stay for months on end, explained Mr. Hildebrand, adding that it’s been “an amazing journey full of joy and growth.”

Each student pays $4,000 to $5,000 and stays 6 to 8 weeks, during which they will gain 9 to 12 credits.The Hildebrands do not take a salary or rental income from the château, “partly because we are on a ‘visitor’ visa, but also because we’re not doing it for money,” he said.

 

A bedroom. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie) Classical French paneling and an old fireplace adorn the interior of the château. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie)

 

A bedroom. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie) The interior after renovation and furnishing. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie)
Their group, a nonprofit, is called Two Talent Ministries. “That comes from a story in the New Testament where three different servants were challenged to use what they had faithfully,” Mr. Hildebrand said. “That’s what we’re trying to do.”

The endeavor has been fruitful so far. Students love attending the château’s study abroad program, exploring their Christian faith, and learning about Europe. “The last six weeks have been the most impactful and life-changing experience of my life,” one student of the program said. “These memories will stay with me forever.”
The château. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie) The Hildebrands inside Château de la Grifferaire. (Courtesy of Château de la Grifferaie)The Hildebrands have big dreams for the château’s future, including possible marriage-building classes. As Christians, they are grateful to God for what was made possible and look forward to the road ahead.

“It’s been scary, it’s dangerous, and it’s physically demanding,” Mr. Hildebrand said. “We may yet lose our shirts. But ultimately, it’s wonderful to give your life in the pursuit of something bigger than yourself.”

 

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