Farmland that has been in his family for more than 200 years, Pete Jones is the owner of 136 acres in Pine Grove, Alabama, a small rural area just outside of Bay Minette, the county seat.  The Baldwin County fertile acres are just beyond the railroad tracks, not too far from the courthouse square, bringing sights and sounds of nostalgia and yesteryear.

 

Pete and his wife Ashley are the fourth generation to stand under challenges often presented to the American farmer. Economic pressures, from fluctuating commodity prices to rising input costs, have made it increasingly difficult for family farms to stay afloat. Market volatility can turn a profitable year into a struggle for survival. These economic challenges force many farmers to take on additional debt or sell off parts of their land, creating a cycle of financial stress that is hard to break. The cycle almost always lands on the next generation. The torch for multigenerational farms are not usually passed as an inheritance, but rather a financial rescue to honor parents, grandparents, and the family legacy from decades and centuries ago.

​

In 2007, when the last parcel of Jones Farm presented in distress, the last thing Pete and his family needed was another leveraged piece of land.  During the height of the housing crisis, a job lay-off from a 20-year position, and a willingness to keep the historic family farm whole, Pete, Ashley and their children made a vow to the Lord. “Father, if you will see us through this, when the time comes, we will use this property for your glory.” 

​

Pete’s mother made her glorious journey to heaven in 2007. Thirteen years later, at the age of 96, Pete’s father joined her in the greatest homecoming ever.   The time had come for Pete, Ashley, and their children to honor their vow.  Psalm 116:18: I will fulfill my vow to the Lord in the presence of His people. With Deuteronomy 23:21 also in their hearts, Ashley and Pete began to pray, “What is our next step, Lord? How do we even get started?” The verse says, “If you make a vow to the Lord your God, you shall not delay in fulfilling it.”  Obedience, faith, and the work ethic of a farmer were indeed the cornerstone of the long-awaited ministry. The Lord soon gave them a name for the property: Solemn Vow.

​

In 2021, in His perfect timing, the Lord provided co-laborers, paint, crews, and even pews.  A barn built just after World War II soon became a chapel.  A 70 year old flatbed truck soon became a worship bandstand, a metal barn was transformed into a fellowship hall, and an old wooden shelter became a prayer cabin.  The Lord began sending His people for Bible study, small group retreats, old-fashioned church picnics, and even a gathering for southern gospel music.  

​

Today, Solemn Vow is governed by a board of directors, designated as a non-profit organization, and covered in constant fervent prayer – every move, every discussion, and every event.

​

Their story is one of many testifying to the need to re-discover the practice and exposure to discipleship, scripture, community amongst believers, breaking strongholds, and so many other aspects of the Christian faith within the generations of our families.  There is a finite number of days we are gifted to occupy this earth, time to live out “The Great Commission”, and to protect, nourish and prepare our families for generations to come. We believe we are not just raising children but rather raising warriors for the Kingdom bringing heaven to earth. Psalm 90:12: Teach us to number our days so that we may gain a heart of wisdom. The time is now.