(Written by Albert Gomes. Albert served on Community from 2024-2025 and lives in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil)
The Lee Abbey website has a phrase about living in Community that always caught my attention: “It’s challenging but great fun too, and if you let it, it can be life-changing..” That is exactly how I would describe my experience here.
When I boarded the plane in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil last January, leaving my comfort zone, I felt like the main character in a movie about to embark on an unforgettable adventure full of surprises. I thought the English I’d learned from watching Netflix and listening to music would be enough to get by. I imagined adapting would be a breeze. But, just like in the movies we all love, things didn’t quite go as planned.
A big challenge was the language. At first, I could hardly understand anything people were saying to me. My answer to everything was just “Yeah.” What’s your name? “Yeah!” How old are you? “Yeah!” Where are you from? “Yeah!”
Looking back now, I can see clearly that the House Team was where I was meant to be. It’s where I truly flourished, and it was more than I could have ever imagined.
In the beginning, I felt scared, insecure, and even lonely. But over time, I learned something very important: God never leaves us alone and He takes care of every detail in our lives. Even during that emotional rollercoaster, God placed incredible people around me who supported me through the toughest times. Through them, I felt His love in so many different ways.
Gradually, things started to improve. I felt more settled, led my first afternoon prayer, held the fire marshal, joined the Welcome Team, served guests, and the things that once felt so scary became second nature.
I experienced simple yet deeply meaningful moments I’d always dreamed of: seeing snow for the first time, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, sitting on the grass watching the sunset with friends, playing hide-and-seek in a big house, traveling to other countries, camping with friends. So many times, I stopped and thought, “Wow, I prayed for this. It’s here. It’s happening. Thank you, God!”
As the months went by, I learned that Lee Abbey is a place that both welcomes and challenges you in equal measure. Some days are good, others not so much. I faced challenges that helped me grow. Seeing the generation I started with leave and a new one arrive taught me so much about change, deep conversations where I was allowed to be vulnerable, and teamwork moments that strengthened my sense of community.
After six months, I realised I was living more peacefully. Each day brought new lessons about God, moments to teach new community members, more genuine smiles, and the certainty that the insecure and fragile young man I once was had been left behind. I became a “father” to four new Community members, led my first morning prayer, decided to be baptised, joined a choir, and, looking at all of this, I saw that I was reaching the end of this journey in a very special and meaningful way.
Without a doubt, what makes this experience so special is the people. So I thank God for every person I’ve crossed paths with. One of the hardest parts of Lee Abbey is saying goodbye. Watching people leave broke my heart. But Lee Abbey is also about new beginnings as new, amazing people arrive.
Now, as I say goodbye, my heart is full of gratitude. Gratitude for every challenge, every lesson, every friendship, and every moment I experienced here. Lee Abbey wasn’t just a place; it was a home, a school of life, and a stage where God did something amazing in my story.
Thank you all so much for being part of this journey. May God continue to bless this community so it remains a place of welcome, transformation, and love. You will always have a special place in my heart.
With love and gratitude,
Albert from Brazil
