Longing for a simpler way of life

“In the late 1980s, young urban professionals Scott and Mary Ann Savage experienced an unexpected call. In the midst of a booming material culture, they were uneasy with their lengthy commutes, hurried lives, and impact on the environment. They began to long for a simpler way of life. A spiritual hunger grew as well, which caused them to read about the plain communities around them in Ohio.  

During the home birth of their first child in 1991, they unexpectedly felt the presence of God.  Mary Ann quit her job in order to be a stay-at-home mom, and nearby Amish people taught them how to simplify their lives. They found spiritual community among Conservative Friends, who believe that, with the assistance of Scripture and fellow believers, God’s leadings can be found in one’s heart.

Scott and Mary Ann received a leading to move to a farm without electricity. There they learned to grow and can fruits and vegetables, feed livestock, and use a horse and buggy to get around.  More children were born. Although the work was hard, they experienced joys they had not known before.”