“It started out as a conviction that a few friends and I had years back to do something to serve God’s people,” says Ripley, “but now, so many of those people have become my personal friends. It’s like going down there and hanging out with friends over breakfast. It gives us a perfect opportunity to be Christ-like and show compassion.”
The cross country team was able to earn the $500 by hosting the All-Comers Cross Country Challenge in December. The 5K race started and finished on the Black Mountain Recreation Park and meandered through Montreat’s Black Mountain cross country course. “We are motivated and inspired by Adam and his willingness to serve in such a great ministry. As an ex-runner for Montreat, I wanted our runners to see how God can use one simple person to do so much great work in the community. I am proud of Adam and our runners for working hard to raise this desperately needed money. Adam believes it’s enough money for over one month’s worth of food; we were excited to hear that,” added Larios.