Week 4: St. James' Episcopal Church, Wilmington, NC

St. James Episcopal Church, affectionately known to us as “Cookie’s Group,” joined us for Week 4 of Summer Ministry at Glory Ridge. If we had to sum up the week in one word, it would be calm. From the start, everything just clicked. No stress. No confusion. Just steady, spirit-filled service and presence.

We had two work crews this week. One team began their week at Penland and Sons Department Store in downtown Marshall. Penland’s has been around since the early 1900s and is a familiar favorite for many Glory Ridge groups, including St. James. The current owners, Georgette and Susan—granddaughters of the original Mr. Penland and neighbors to George Moore—welcomed us with open arms. The store was severely damaged in the recent hurricane and lost much of its inventory. Our group helped clean old displays and prepare for a fresh coat of paint. On Thursday, Georgette and Susan returned the favor with pizza and an evening at the Ridge, where they shared stories about the early days of camp, growing up next to George, and their journey to reopen the family store after the storm.

Later in the week, this same group visited an old friend—Mrs. Vickie in Weaverville—one of the very first neighbors ever served by St. James. Fallen trees in her backyard had blocked access to the creek, so we helped clear brush and cut wood to restore the space. More importantly, we spent time listening to her story, one marked by trials and deep faith. When St. James first met her, her husband Albert had just survived a car accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Albert, a preacher and an artist, continued both passions, painting by holding a brush in his mouth. Their unwavering faith in the face of such hardship was a profound reminder of God’s presence in all things.

The second crew worked at Mrs. Sandra’s home, building two new decks and repairing floors. But the real joy came in the time shared with her three young granddaughters—painting nails, bedazzling faces, and running through the Ridge chasing fireflies. Mrs. Sandra holds a special place in her heart for Glory Ridge, and she and the girls joined us one night for dinner and worship.

What truly stood out this week was the group themselves. From youth to adults, everyone was fully engaged in the mission of Glory Ridge. Even first-time participants felt like they had been here all along. They worked hard, offered helping hands without being asked, and showed a maturity and heart that brought a sense of peace and purpose to each day. Worship was especially moving, with rich conversations, Scripture reflections, and meaningful music that brought us closer together and deeper into our faith.

One of our staffers put it best in her reflection: “This week was so full of love, joy, and patience.” That’s exactly how it felt. To St. James, and all who prayed for and supported us during Week 4, thank you.

By Robert Hart (Team Lead 2025)