What happended in Barnardsville NC?
Barnardsville, North Carolina, a Bible belt town of 559 residents nestled in a picturesque valley, was among the areas devastated by Hurricane Helene on September 27, 2024. The storm's impact was particularly severe in the Appalachian region, with extensive damage to homes and infrastructure, along with numerous landslides. Ten months later, while progress has been made, much work remains. Our team from LHCC recently embarked on a mission trip to assist with the ongoing recovery efforts, and we discovered that this journey was as much about rebuilding our own hearts as it was about restoring homes.
We partnered with Rebuilding Barnardsville, a project by City of Hope Charlotte, to aid residents in this resilient community. The work was somewhat demanding including trench building, house painting, deck staining, and fence rebuilding. But the true reward lay in the connections we made. In a valley where no lives were lost despite the widespread destruction from floods and mudslides, we witnessed the enduring spirit of the community and the power of human kindness.
Our base for the trip was the beautiful Dillingham Presbyterian Church. Over three days, we worked hard, but we also celebrated three birthdays and enjoyed the serene beauty of the area. Cooling off in the local creeks each evening and sharing fellowship with new friends was a blessing. I was particularly moved by the joy I saw on our team’s faces and the deep gratitude of the residents we served.
As is often the case with mission work, we found that we received more than we gave. I was inspired by the way our teens stepped up, working tirelessly in the hot sun to accomplish tasks that residents deeply appreciated. Through this experience, we were reminded that the Lord gives and takes away, and we are called to be a blessing to others. We began and ended each day with prayer and devotion, counting our blessings and thanking the Lord for the opportunity to be together and serve together.
We returned with a renewed sense of purpose, feeling an "altruistic glow" and a desire to do more. This trip was a powerful reminder of the joy that comes from making a difference in the lives of others.
There is still much to do in Barnardsville, and many more blessings to be received. Who is ready to join the next mission trip? To God be the glory for all that has been done and for all that will be accomplished according to His perfect will in Barnardsville.
Brent Morris, Executive Director
August 2025
