Summer arrived at Glory Ridge like a gentle mountain breeze, ushering in days filled with heartfelt service, enduring faith, and abundant love. Union Baptist Church from Griffin, Georgia, journeyed up our winding roads with open hearts and ready hands, united by a simple purpose—to lend a hand, mend hearts, and sow hope where it was needed most.

One encounter stood out like a beacon: meeting Anne. After losing her beloved husband, Anne's heart and home carried the deep scars of grief. Overgrown yards, weathered porches, and damaged interiors spoke quietly of her sorrow and struggle. Yet, what began as a week dedicated to physical repairs quickly blossomed into something profoundly deeper—a rejuvenation of spirit.

From the moment the group stepped foot onto Anne’s property, each task was tackled with care. They rebuilt the porch, laid fresh steps, and sturdy handrails; cleared away brush; and repaired the water-damaged interior, bringing warmth and comfort back into Anne’s home. More powerful, however, was the gift of companionship and genuine kindness they shared.

One evening, Deb and another widow from Union Baptist’s cook team visited Anne, offering her warmth and compassion. Together, they presented her with a beautiful handmade quilt—a vibrant symbol of community, comfort, and an unspoken assurance that she was deeply cared for. Anne held that quilt close, touched profoundly, and quietly shared that she hoped to be wrapped in its embrace even in her final moments.

The following day, Anne visited her husband’s resting place, bringing along these treasured gifts. As she stood in quiet reflection, cicadas gently gathered around his grave, offering an unexpected, comforting sign. Anne remembered a Glory Ridge staff member’s love for collecting cicada wings, and this simple memory created yet another bridge of connection and peace for her.

Nearby, another story unfolded as a local family separated from their cherished dog after Hurricane Helene faced the emotional toll of prolonged separation. With determination, the team built a secure area, enabling the family and their furry companion to finally reunite. This was more than a project—it was the restoration of family, love, and wholeness.

Joy was abundant throughout the week—youth laughed and splashed in the creek, their playful voices ringing through the hollows. Afternoon card games and creative crafts sparked smiles and brought friendships to life. Meanwhile, our dedicated kitchen team nourished bodies and spirits, lovingly preparing meals that fostered fellowship around tables filled with stories, laughter, and gratitude.

Each evening, under the starlit sky in the worship pavilion, the hum of cicadas and the twinkle of fireflies surrounded the group as they sang and shared devotions, bringing them closer in faith and spirit.

Yet, the most moving transformation was Anne’s own renewal. From profound grief at the start of the week, her eyes now held a glimmer of joy. She spoke of planting gardens again, preserving food, and embracing the life she thought she had lost.

Every act of kindness, every shared meal, and each gentle moment of faith bore witness to God's unmistakable presence at Glory Ridge. As the week drew to a close, the volunteers departed with more than memories—they carried home the powerful truth that love in action can change lives, visibly and profoundly felt in the deepest places of the heart.

Story by Deb Shoemake

Share Your Story with Us!