Faith on the Front Lines

One of the gifts of Carolina Camp Meeting is the chance to reflect on how God is working through local churches across our territory. Sabbath morning’s Sabbath School speaker, Pastor Cesar Perozo, highlighted one such story from Upward Seventh-day Adventist Church in Flat Rock—a powerful example of Christ-centered service that continues to unfold in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

After the storm struck in September 2024, churches throughout the Asheville area began responding in practical, sacrificial ways. Among them, the Upward Church quickly opened its doors to distribute food, water, and emergency supplies. Though not formally organized at first, the outreach grew rapidly—eventually becoming a structured, weekly ministry that has served more than 14,000 individuals to date. Volunteers now provide groceries, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, and seasonal outreach to 100–120 families each Sunday. The church has also committed to building a new Community Distribution and Education Center to serve long-term community needs through food assistance, clothing, and educational programs.

Upward is not alone in this mission. Our churches throughout the Asheville region have stepped up in a big way, offering shelter, supplies, and support to those affected by the storm. These churches have been active in their communities with food pantries, cleanup crews, clothing drives, and pastoral care. Each of these ministries reflects the spirit of service that defines our Carolina family.

As we gather this week at Lake Junaluska, we’re reminded that the mission continues well beyond the mountain. Whether through disaster relief, health outreach, or everyday acts of kindness, our churches are living out the gospel in tangible ways. May these stories inspire us to return home with renewed purpose, ready to serve wherever God leads.

—Contributed