All Things New: Spring at Glory Ridge

Dear Friends of Glory Ridge,

Spring has returned to the mountain — and with it, the unmistakable signs of God's renewing grace. The river is singing its song again, the dogwoods are in full bloom, and the hills echo with life. Creation itself seems to be proclaiming what we already know to be true: God is making all things new

Your support in recovering from Hurricane Helene has been a lifeline for our community. Together, we’re rebuilding hope, and your kindness has ensured our friends and neighbors receive the care they need. Thank you for sharing your love, gifts, and prayers with us through the journey. We pray your life overflows with the same love you’ve shared.

This season, the Ridge has been blessed with a steady stream of guests—friends old and new—who have come to lend their hands to good work, pause in the presence of God, and dwell in sacred community. Together, we’ve constructed walls, cleared trails, prayed, played, worshipped, and rested. It’s the rhythm of the Kingdom—work and worship, service and Sabbath.

At Glory Ridge, we’ve always believed that Jesus meets us in simple, earthy places—in the hammering of nails, the slamming of the kitchen screen doors, and the laughter around the dinner table. Spring reminds us that transformation doesn’t have to be loud or flashy. Sometimes, it begins with a small “yes,” a muddy pair of boots, or the stillness of a Sabbath rest.

So as we look ahead to summer, our hearts are full. We believe God has great things in store for this little patch of holy ground. And we can’t wait to welcome campers, staffers, neighbors, and friends into the beautiful, messy, healing work of life together.

Come join us. Come rest. Come serve. Come see what God will do.

In the hope of Christ,

Deb Shoemake

Director

2025 Summer Wishlist

Help Us Make Work Worship This Summer

At the Ridge, we believe every act of service—whether it's painting a railing or building a ramp—is holy ground.

Your donations of practical tools and supplies help us live out our mission: Make Work Worship. From 10-gallon water coolers to keep our crews hydrated, to safety glasses for job site protection, to paintbrushes that spark youth group creativity—every item on our wish list helps shape lives through hands-on service.

“We wanted it to be a uniting thing… just tell people and have people pray, the Holy Spirit will touch hearts.”
—George Moore, In A Vineyard for the Lord

That same heart for simple, grounded service lives on at the Ridge—where mission is hands-on, community-powered, and deeply rooted in faith.

How You Can Help

We invite you to support our summer ministry by donating supplies directly from our Amazon Wish List.
Click the button below to shop and send needed items straight to our door:

SHIP TO: 📬 PO Box 363, Marshall, NC 28753

Thank you for helping us Make Work Worship— one tool, one gift, one act of love at a time.

🧰 The Wishlist

Every item equips our crews for service and ministry!

• 💧 10-Gallon Igloo Water Cooler – Keep crews cool and hydrated on the job

• 🎯 Cornhole Bags – Bring fun and connection to camp downtime

• 🎨 Craft Paint & Brushes – Fuel creativity in youth activities

• 🧹 Heavy-Duty Nylon Bristle Brooms (Set of 4) – Clean up and keep sites safe

• 🧤 Safety Work Gloves – Protect hands while working hard

• 🥽 Safety Glasses – Essential protection on every site

• 🔪 Utility Knife Blades – Keep cutting tools sharp and effective

• 🛠️ Heavy-Duty Retractable Utility Knives – Durable, reliable job site gear

• 🪚 Heavy-Duty Folding Sawhorses – Stable support for sawing and building

• 🔩 RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Impact Driver Kit – Compact, cordless power where it counts

• 🦷 9" Reciprocating Saw Blades (6/12 TPI) – For demolition and tough cuts

• ⚙️ 7-1/4" Circular Saw Blades (24 Teeth) – Precise, smooth woodworking cuts

• 📐 12" Speed Squares – For framing, measuring, and perfect angles

• 🌀 4-1/2" Compact Circular Saw Blades (24T TCT) – Compact power with clean results

Remembering George

🌿 “Take a moment before doing anything—and focus on God.”

Photo of George Moore

That quiet invitation—one of George Moore’s many simple but profound teachings—was shared recently on our Glory Ridge Facebook page. What followed surprised and blessed us: over 2,800 people paused to read. More than 100 responded with likes, shares, and heartfelt comments. It was clear that George’s words still speak deeply, even now.

In a world that moves fast and rarely waits, George encouraged us to do the opposite: to pause. To breathe. To remember that God is already present, already working, already waiting to guide us. It’s a spiritual practice rooted in humility and trust—one George lived out, not only in his ministry, but in the everyday rhythms of life at Glory Ridge.

The outpouring of engagement reminded us of something we can’t forget: George built more than a camp. He built relationships. Through his honesty, humor, and deep integrity, he welcomed people from every walk of life into something larger than themselves. Whether it was a camper, a community member, or a volunteer with dirt under their fingernails, George made space for everyone—and made each person feel seen.

And that’s still happening today.

Many of the comments on that post came from people who served alongside him, or who were shaped by the ministry of Glory Ridge over the years. Others came from folks who never met George, but who now carry his spirit forward—in worship, in service, in how they lead and love others.

That, perhaps more than anything, is the legacy of George Moore: a life lived for God, and a community still marked by that calling. He reminded us that our work—however small or ordinary—can be worship. That slowing down to focus on God is not just wise, it’s necessary. That faith, when grounded in real relationships, has the power to transform.

We are grateful for the response to that post. Not just because of the numbers, but because of what it showed us: that George is still pointing people toward the heart of God. That his voice, his vision, and his values continue to live on in this community.

As summer approaches and a new season at the Ridge begins, we’re mindful of all the ways George’s spirit remains with us. In the songs we sing, in the way we welcome others, in every act of service done with love—we remember.

Thank you for joining us in that remembrance. Thank you for carrying the vision forward.

And thank you, George.

Friends & Family Week (June 8-14)

This summer, we’re opening the doors at Glory Ridge in a unique way—and we want you to be part of it! Whether you’ve been before or this is your first time, this invitation is for anyone who feels called to serve, worship, and live in community.

Throughout the week, we will partner with the Community Housing Coalition of Madison County (CHC) to assist with urgent home repairs, many of whose needs are amplified by the storm’s impact. We’ll share delicious meals, worship beneath the twinkling stars, and soak in the simple, beautiful presence of Christ. It’s meaningful work, sacred ground, and a precious glimpse of the Kingdom.

Participants are asked to leave their devices behind and come ready to live in community. That means sharing communal sleeping space, serving our neighbors together, helping with meal preparation, and joining in daily worship. It’s simple living rooted in love, service, and the presence of Christ.

Space is limited, and registration is required. Participants must stay a minimum of two nights. We kindly suggest a donation of $100 per person to help cover the costs of materials and meals and to support our summer staff. If your heart is stirring—say yes and register below!

Summer Staff for 2025

The summer staff of Glory Ridge embody the vision that George Moore first glimpsed on the ridge: a community where faith is lived through service, and work becomes worship. These young leaders bring with them a diverse set of gifts—creativity, hospitality, craftsmanship, leadership, and a deep desire to serve. Throughout the summer, they help lead worship, encourage and guide young people on their worksites, and ensure that camp remains a safe and welcoming place for all who come. They work tirelessly, not for recognition, but to keep the spirit of the Ridge alive: building homes, building faith, and building community. Their efforts extend far beyond the physical tasks, as they help create a space where hearts are changed, wounds are healed, and every hammer swung and meal prepared becomes an offering to God.

Learn About Our Staff

Jack Barwick
Kinston, NC

Jack has worked as a lifeguard at Camp Trinity and as a pharmacy cashier. He also enjoys volunteering at Mary’s Kitchen in Kinston, NC, and has a personal interest in day trading.

He is drawn to Glory Ridge by a desire to serve those affected by Hurricane Helene and to gain hands-on experience in construction. Jack finds spiritual renewal in nature and feels most connected to God when immersed in His creation.

Michael Hart
Charleston, SC

Michael is graduating from The Citadel, where he is a member of the prestigious Summerall Guards precision drill team. He currently works as a security team member and mechanical bull operator at El Jefe Texican Cantina, as well as Co-Youth Director at Grace Church Cathedral alongside his brother.

Michael returns to Glory Ridge because of the immeasurable spiritual rewards it offers. He finds joy in witnessing others discover God through service, community, and the beauty of the Ridge, even amidst long days and tough work.

David Brown
Greenville, NC

David is graduating with an Associate’s degree in Visual Art from Pitt Community College and currently works as the lead barista at The Scullery in Greenville, NC. He plans to transfer to North Carolina State University in the fall.

An active member of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Kinston, David also volunteers through Phi Theta Kappa and is involved with the YMCA. His artwork is in progress for a spring exhibition at the Greenville Museum of Art.

David looks forward to a summer at the Ridge as a time of growth, service, and reflection. He is passionate about the opportunity to lead and learn alongside youth in a Christ-centered environment and values the Ridge as a place of deep community and spiritual connection.

Robert Hart
Charleston, SC

Robert recently graduated from The Citadel with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He grew up at Grace Church Cathedral in Charleston, SC, where he now serves as Co-Director of Youth Ministry alongside his brother, Michael.

This summer marks Robert’s ninth year connected to Glory Ridge and his third year serving on staff. As Lead Staffer, he is excited to help build God's Kingdom through hard work, community service, and worship. Robert looks forward to another powerful summer living out the Ridge’s mission to “Make Work Worship.”

Jane Herring
Kinston, NC

Jane is a student at North Carolina State University and works as a nanny in Raleigh for multiple families. She is an active member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, where she serves as Social Chair and is passionate about their philanthropic work in the fight against breast cancer.

She is excited to return to Glory Ridge, a place that fills her spiritually even amidst physical exhaustion. For Jane, the Ridge is a space of deep appreciation—for nature, community, and the relationships formed through shared service and faith.

Nan Livingston
Griffin, GA

Nan is a student at the College of Coastal Georgia, pursuing a degree in Environmental Science. On weekends, she works at Winn-Dixie, and in her free time she enjoys reading, going to the beach, and walking in her local park. When she is home, Nan attends her local church and actively participates in church events and volunteer activities.

Nan is excited to spend a summer at Glory Ridge, a place that holds a special place in her heart since her first visit in middle school. She loves working with kids, serving the local community, and soaking in the beauty of the Ridge. For Nan, being surrounded by nature at Glory Ridge draws her closer to God and fills her with joy.

Miriam Ragsdale
Raleigh, NC

Miriam is a student at Davidson College and previously served on staff at Glory Ridge. She has also worked as a babysitter and math tutor. At Davidson, she is involved in the Habitat for Humanity Club, Heart Math Tutoring, and the Episcopal Student Fellowship. She also serves on the leadership team for You Are Not a Stranger Here, a community support group.

Miriam describes Glory Ridge as her favorite place and credits her experience on staff as the most joyful and spiritually grounded season of her life. She returns to the Ridge seeking to deepen her faith, build meaningful relationships, and continue doing good in a place where she feels closest to God.

Peyton Wojtek
Greensboro, NC

Peyton is a student at Clemson University, where she works for the university’s Annual Giving Office and serves as a DJ for the local radio station. She enjoys curating music, reviewing records, and collaborating with fellow DJs. Peyton also looks forward to reconnecting with Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in her community.

She is passionate about spending her summer in purposeful service at Glory Ridge, especially in support of those affected by Hurricane Helene. Peyton finds deep meaning in connecting personally with the people she serves and sees her time at the Ridge as a hands-on expression of her faith. For her, serving at Glory Ridge is a way to live out love, community, and spiritual responsibility.