Faith
French Château Becomes Rest Haven for Missionaries
Faith Facts
- Sherry Pogue transformed a French château into a free spiritual retreat for Christian missionaries and their families.
- The ministry, Restored & Renewed, was founded to renew missionaries’ strength and prevent burnout.
- The château also fosters community outreach and Christian fellowship in a largely secular region of France.
Sherry Pogue purchased the 6,000-square-foot Château Claire Fontaine in rural eastern France to advance God’s calling by providing rest and renewal to missionaries. Built in 1870, the four-level home now welcomes missionaries at no cost, offering comfort, recreation, and biblical counseling.
“Our goal is to keep missionaries on the field,” Pogue shared, noting many face exhaustion worldwide.
Sue Foster, a veteran missionary, expressed that Restored & Renewed has “been a tremendous blessing to a great many missionaries around the world, including myself!!”
Pogue, working with life coaches and even a helpful poodle, intentionally opens her doors to missionaries of all biblical backgrounds, emphasizing Christian unity and support. She observed the challenges large missionary families face in affording rest, so her property’s expansive grounds and tranquil setting provide much-needed relief.
Luk Brazle, another missionary, described the experience as healing: “A place where we could sleep, be cooked for and nothing was expected of us was healing.” His family found fellowship with other missionary families, strengthening their connections and faith.
Pogue’s commitment is rooted in her extensive background in education and counseling, all guided by her strong faith in God’s direction. She credits God’s hand for preparing her path, from her early days studying French to her present ministry work in France.
Beyond the château, Pogue organizes Christian services in the local Catholic church—often closed and without a priest—to share the hope of Christ in the village. Professor Robert McCready, whose students join these events, testified, “We would talk about the Lord between songs…it was very encouraging.” His involvement in these faith-filled gatherings was so positive that the mayor honored him as an honorary citizen and welcomed continued Christian fellowship.
Through dedication to biblical values, Sherry Pogue’s faithful obedience is a powerful testimony to the difference one believer can make in God’s kingdom and in the lives of His servants.
Stay connected with us for more stories of faith in action. Subscribe and follow Faith and Freedom Report as we spotlight believers living out Christ’s commission and bringing hope to the world.
Faith Facts
- The majority of pastors now use AI tools such as ChatGPT and Grammarly to prepare sermons.
- Sixty-one percent of pastors report using AI weekly or daily, a significant rise from the previous year.
- Church leaders express concerns over the ethical and spiritual impacts of AI-generated content.
Many pastors are turning to AI technology to enhance sermon preparation while emphasizing the importance of maintaining spiritual discernment and personal connection.
Commonly used AI tools in ministry include ChatGPT for research and creative support, and Grammarly for refining church communications.
Researchers found that church leaders see value in AI for efficiency, yet remain vigilant about upholding biblical truth and safeguarding the unique role of human guidance in ministry.
Churches of various sizes and denominations are participating in the adoption of AI, with a majority willing to invest in further education and ethical training regarding its use.
Leaders are encouraged to approach technological tools with wisdom and transparency, prioritizing faith-based values and community trust as they navigate these new opportunities.
Faith Facts
- St Bernard of Clairvaux, born in 1090, was a leading Cistercian abbot and theologian who shaped church life in medieval Europe.
- He described three distinct Advents: Christ’s past coming, His future coming, and His present coming into believers’ hearts.
- St Bernard’s Advent sermons inspired the faithful to experience Jesus’s presence as fulfillment, hope, and joy.
St Bernard of Clairvaux, canonized in 1174, was renowned for his spirituality, wisdom, and service to Christ’s church.
He taught that Advent is a sacred journey, reflecting on Christ’s incarnation, promised return, and daily presence in the hearts of believers.
“If anyone loves me and keeps my word, my Father will love them, and my Father and I will come to them and live with them.”
Jesus’ message in John 14:23 calls Christians to open their hearts to His love and guidance today.
Let this Advent be a time to renew our faith, honor Christ’s coming, and share His hope in our families and nation.
Faith Facts
- Sevierville maintains its authentic small-town character despite hosting millions of tourists annually.
- The Sevier County Courthouse and statue of Dolly Parton reflect the town’s heritage and faith in the community.
- Christmas celebrations center on family values and church traditions, illuminating the town with a spirit of Christian joy.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, Sevierville offers a heartfelt alternative for those seeking genuine community and tradition. This Tennessee town stands as a testament to perseverance, closely guarding its heritage and the values that have shaped it since pioneer days.
Downtown Sevierville is anchored by the historic Sevier County Courthouse, highlighted by a beloved statue of local icon Dolly Parton. The area features restaurants, shops, and thoughtful plaques sharing stories of faith and settlement.
John Sevier, the city’s namesake and a Revolutionary War hero, was the first governor of Tennessee and championed freedom during the state’s early years. Today’s community continues to honor his legacy, blending history with gratitude for the blessings handed down.
SkyLand Ranch, perched above the town, offers families wholesome fun amid scenic views—all while emphasizing the area’s agricultural roots. Visitors can enjoy interactive attractions framed by God’s creation, making it a perfect spot for fellowship and reflection.
Sevierville stands apart during the Christmas season as traditions flourish with more than 15 million lights at Winterfest and community events featuring church choirs and parades. Local congregations like First Baptist Church lead celebrations that keep the birth of Christ at the center.
The Harrisburg Covered Bridge stands just outside town, serving as a living reminder of Tennessee’s history and the importance of preserving our heritage.
Travelers can access the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with ease, enjoying God’s handiwork in every season. The region encourages visits during quieter months for a peaceful and restorative experience.
The spirit of faith, family togetherness, and enduring freedom shines through this welcoming town, making Sevierville a true beacon of American values.
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