I cant remember if its war or disease, but in the aftermath a man sets up in upstate NY (I think) with two women. They start with cabin in the mountains by a creek, slowly establishes a group.. At some point they rescue orphans and a mystical/religious person comes in to play, later that person starts directing people back to the community?
Sounds familiar. If i have the right one, one of the women was his daughter, and the mystic elements include a vial or something that lets the two safely have a child.
I also recall some effort to find horses. And when the last of the monks is dying, the man carries him up to a mountain top.
Unfortunately, I don't recall author or title.
I think I've found your story - 'Where the Mountain Rises' by Fofo Xuxu. I'm not sure it's the one OP wants.
AJ
Thank you for your help in finding it. The extra detail in your description made all the difference.
AJ