Week 6: Forsyth Methodist Church, Forsyth, Georgia
Week 6 at Glory Ridge was a joyful celebration of faith, service, and Christian community as our friends from Forsyth Methodist in Georgia embraced every opportunity to love their neighbors and encourage one another. Forsyth Methodist is not simply a youth group; they are a community of all ages, from toddlers to seniors, bonded by faith and friendship. From lively worship and meaningful service projects to whitewater rafting, home-cooked meals, and evenings filled with laughter, the week reflected God's faithfulness in countless ways. Whether serving on a worksite, cheering on children during Ridge Ball, or praying with residents, we all experienced the joy of serving together with willing hearts.
Each day began and ended in worship, which quickly became one of the week's greatest highlights. The worship pavilion overflowed with energy as campers sang enthusiastically, filling the room with joyful voices, clapping, dancing, and celebration. The music throughout the week was especially memorable, featuring the incredible Watson family, fondly nicknamed the "von Trapps," along with other gifted musicians who led everyone into meaningful times of praise. Daily devotions and evening worship offered opportunities to reflect on where God had been at work, while campers shared stories from their worksites that encouraged and entertained one another.
Service projects throughout the county reflected both hard work and compassionate hearts. At Ashley's home, skilled leadership helped guide us through a variety of projects while creating an atmosphere where everyone felt valued and included. Board member Michael served as one of the worksite leaders, earning praise for his patience, encouragement, and ability to bring everyone together. The team worked with joy, supporting one another through every challenge and sharing plenty of laughter along the way. Even when unexpected obstacles arose, we joked together, encouraged one another, and kept moving forward with servant hearts.
Other teams also made tremendous progress throughout the week. At Glen's home, we installed a new living room floor while enjoying his quick wit and playful sense of humor as he laughed and joked with the youth throughout the project. Brenda welcomed us into her home with heartfelt gratitude as we removed old carpet from her bedroom, creating a safer and more comfortable space, and helped her clear and organize her basement. Across every worksite, the camaraderie among the campers was evident as everyone eagerly stepped in to help, even when tasks stretched them beyond their comfort zones.
Our youngest campers offered a beautiful reminder that no act of service is too small when it is done with love. One morning, they spent time carefully scooping and bagging pet food for the Walnut Community Center’s food pantry, which serves nearly 100 neighbors each month. With eager hands and joyful hearts, they helped provide a simple but meaningful gift to families who want to care well for their beloved pets, even during difficult seasons.
This year, a group of women from Buffalo, New York, joined our Forsyth friends for the first time. They are friends and fellow church members of longtime Ridger, Cathy Houle. They visited our neighbor, Hazel, whose joyful spirit continues to bless everyone who meets her. They listened to stories of her childhood, shared conversation, and prayed together. Like so many weeks before, Hazel reminded everyone that some of the most impactful moments of service happen not through construction projects, but simply by being present with someone and sharing the love of Christ.
Midweek brought one of Glory Ridge's favorite traditions as we headed out to the French Broad River for whitewater rafting. The adventure was filled with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable memories. The fun began before anyone even reached the river, with lively traveling games and friendly competition on the bus ride. Once on the water, teams encouraged one another through every rapid while enjoying the beauty of God's creation. The rafting trip strengthened friendships and created memories that will last long after camp ended.
Back at camp, community continued to grow in everyday moments. Everyone looked forward to gathering in the dining pavilion for delicious Southern meals lovingly prepared by the wonderful kitchen crew, affectionately known as “Special K”. These ladies not only filled our tummies but also took time throughout the week to nourish the spirits of friends and neighbors beyond camp, including Jennifer, John, and Ruth Ann, through lunch visits and shared companionship. Their warmth and hospitality became a special part of the week.
Afternoons on the ridge were filled with laughter once the workday was finished, as campers played Ridge Ball and ultimate frisbee while families relaxed together. Even the daily afternoon rain showers became part of the rhythm of camp life, offering a welcome pause before evening activities resumed.
As the week came to a close, we gave thanks for the many ways God had been present—in the work accomplished, the friendships strengthened, and the quiet moments of encouragement shared along the way. Week 6 served as another reminder that Glory Ridge is much more than a mission trip. It is a place where strangers become family, faith is deepened through joyful service, and God's love is experienced in both extraordinary moments and simple, everyday acts of kindness.