A couple from Canada embarked on a journey to purchase and renovate a quaint French château, despite their goal not being to live a fairytale-like romantic life.
Their faith sparked this European adventure and their mission to open the doors of the French castle to young people in need of help in the post-COVID era.
The Château de la Grifferaie, typically translated as “Castle of the Sharp Claw” or “Place of Scrape,” is built on a property with a Gallo-Roman well. It has stood for several centuries. In this century, it was transformed into a theme park with classic elements, featuring amusement facilities and roller coasters.
Rob and Leslie Hildebrand purchased the 1875-built French mansion in Echemeire, France, to alleviate their growing concerns about the social and spiritual development of the younger generation.
As Christians, the Hildebrands have been working with young people for decades, witnessing the impacts of social isolation and mental health issues on the youth, which eroded their values and faith.
“Today’s youth are less connected to the church,” Leslie Hildebrand told The Epoch Times, “We wanted to create a place where young people can explore their world and faith while connecting with others learning in the community.”
The castle spans approximately 20,000 square feet, with 40 to 50 guest rooms, 15 bathrooms (11 in use), and 11 bedrooms, all currently occupied. Five structures on the property still await renovation, and the Hildebrands plan to add 10 bedrooms on the top floor.
This all began back in December 2019.
Despite not being wealthy, the Hildebrands understood that owning a castle would involve substantial expenses. After praying to God, they decided that if purchasing the castle was their calling, the money would come.
They sold their seaside villa, daily residence, and inherited land. Contacting the castle owner, they began negotiations.
The owner agreed to a low offer without bank or mortgage loans if the couple paid $100,000 upfront and committed to paying the rest within three months. If they failed to meet the deadline, the owner would keep their $100,000.
It was a gamble for the couple since they had not yet sold their properties. Fortunately, within three months, they sold the land above asking price, decided to mortgage their seaside villa.
Simultaneously, the university they worked for agreed for them to become resident teachers on campus.
However, the Hildebrands were still short on funds. The remaining money for the castle came from friends and a pastor they had never met before. This pastor wanted to lend the money from his heart, and they raised over six figures in total.
Everything was progressing miraculously until their planned acquisition completion in April 2020 was disrupted due to the pandemic.
But in July, France reopened to Canada. The Hildebrands from Saskatchewan were able to cross the Atlantic and marvel at their new home in France.
“We were astonished we made it through,” Hildebrand said, attributing this miracle to God.
They’ve spent over $400,000 on renovations, with more yet to come. “A renovation project never ends,” Hildebrand said, “When you buy a castle, you’ve committed to a lifetime of work.”
So far, they’ve replaced over 50 windows, repaired the roof, and installed 10 toilets. They renovated six rooms in the castle basement. The husband shared that “countless projects” had become part of this endeavor.
Castle maintenance includes ensuring the wooden loft stays dry, combating mold, and keeping critters out. “Chasing bats, pigeons, lizards, rats, or owls out of the house is quite normal,” he said.
During the offseason, the Hildebrands take one day off per week to enjoy the castle’s romance. Mr. Hildebrand remarked, “The castle is highly rated by visitors, although there’s still plenty of work to be done, it’s still very beautiful.”
They document their journey online, and Mr. Hildebrand expressed, “The response on YouTube is very encouraging.” Many kind individuals send their well wishes and goodwill. Some have provided tangible help, partnering with them on projects, purchasing tools, and supplies for the castle.
The castle’s interior is adorned with crystal chandeliers, classical paintings, elaborate fireplaces, and suits of armor. There are hardwood floors, wrought iron stair rails, and ornate Rococo-style wall panels.
The castle is the Hildebrands’ home. Mr. Hildebrand explained that it’s also a study-abroad program where 20 to 25 university students reside for several months, calling it “a wonderful journey full of joy and growth.”
Each student pays $4,000 to $5,000, stays for 6 to 8 weeks, and can earn 9 to 12 credits during their stay.
The couple does not draw salaries or rental income from the castle, partly due to holding a “visitor” visa, but mainly because they’re not in it for the money.
They operate as a non-profit called Two Talent Ministries, originating from a story in the New Testament where three different servants were told to faithfully use what they had. “That’s what we’re striving to do,” Hildebrand shared.
The work has yielded fruitful results so far. Students love the castle’s study-abroad program, exploring their Christian faith, and understanding Europe. “The past six weeks have been the most influential and life-changing experience of my life,” one student in the program said, “These memories will stay with me forever.”
The Hildebrands have grand dreams for the castle’s future, including potential relationship building courses. As Christians, they thank God for making everything possible and look forward to the road ahead.
“It’s scary, dangerous, and physically demanding,” Hildebrand said, “We could lose a lot of wealth. But ultimately, giving up your life to chase something greater than yourself is just amazing.”
This article was originally published on the English Epoch Times website.