A letter about Hope & Horses future

Dear friends:

In April 2005, about 15 people gathered together in a small classroom at Hosanna! to learn more about the possibility of creating a horseback ministry much like Christian motorcycle clubs that had become so popular. The idea behind the group was relatively simple: to give horse-loving Christians a chance to fellowship, grow closer to God and touch the horse community with God’s love. We aimed to bring glory to God.

At the meeting, we shared ideas of various activities that interested us all, and gathered names and email addresses, and went on our way.

The email list grew as more people learned about what would eventually become known as Hope & Horses. We hosted monthly day rides, social events and an annual weekend camping trip; volunteered at therapeutic riding centers, Feed My Starving Children, the Minnesota Horse Rescue and MN Linc; attended concerts; participated in the 40 Days of Community initiative; and discussed NOOMA videos and the book Sacred Romance. Several people exhausted themselves coordinating activities and trying to generate interest in the group and our activities.

Through our efforts, several friendships were formed and by the grace of God, individuals grew closer to Christ. Group members supported each other through very difficult times, pouring out the love of Christ through prayer, financial support, encouraging words and warm meals. Hope & Horses served its purpose.

After many weeks of prayer and consideration, we (Greg & Amy) sense that Hope & Horses may have “run its course.” Everyone has busy lives and we felt that through a lack of attendance at our activities. A faithful core group has attended nearly every event; newcomers have been slow to participate. We know that the faithful core will continue to support one another and fellowship together regardless if Hope & Horses exists in the future. We hope and pray that others who have been watching from a distance and waiting for the right time or event to join us have other means for growing deeper in their faith. We’re sorry we never had a chance to meet you.

We know that the Lord prepares each of us for his work in different ways and at different times. If you feel like God has been preparing you with the gift of leadership, spiritual maturity, tools for building community and effective relationships, and a love for others, we invite you to pray about the possibility of leading Hope & Horses. If, after a period of prayer, you feel called to lead, please contact Greg at 952.334.9068.

This certainly is sobering news for a joyous season and for that we apologize.

God bless and Merry Christmas,
Greg Caron
Amy Lewis