Peace Descends
Within the Glory Ridge community, a hustle and bustle begins at the crack of dawn—preparing food, gathering for prayers, loading vehicles with supplies. Groups work alongside community members to build and repair damaged floors, doors, or steps for the elderly and handicapped.
Then comes the evening: the return of tired but grateful youth and advisors, storytelling, activities, and gathering for dinner. More stories, more activities, more prayers. More jobs to complete and plans to make for tomorrow.
Amid that constant motion, the Ridge offers moments of quiet reflection—when the sun sets in the evening or the morning mist slowly lifts to greet the day. In those moments, you develop a sense of knowing, a sense of awareness that God is present and working through you and for you.
By Glenda Graves
About the Author
Glenda Graves attended a mission trip to Glory Ridge in the summer of 2024, where she witnessed firsthand the powerful impact of youth service through the Episcopal Church. Her story, set on June 15, 2024, reflects the dedication of leaders like Cookie from St. James in Wilmington, NC, and Jonathan from Holy Cross and St. James, who guide young people in learning practical skills, building relationships, and living out their faith through service.