“I lift up my eyes to the hills from which comes my help. My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” -Psalm 121:1-2
About twenty miles from our beloved Laurel Ridge Camp, Conference, and Retreat Center, there is a small riverside town called Lansing. Relying on small businesses—the local market, barbershop, diner, mercantile—the little community was unexpectedly devastated on September 26, 2024, when Hurricane Helene tore through the mountains of North Carolina and drowned their township. The Category 4 storm caused nearly $80 billion in damage throughout the southeastern US; over $55 billion of the destruction was in our state alone. In addition to flooding and water damage, the area sustained winds of up to 140mph. The residents and businesses suffered tremendous loss due to damaged and lost property, as well as lost revenue. Recovery is ongoing.
Moravian Disaster Relief (MDR) worked to rebuild this home in Lansing, N.C.
In mid-October, like so many others, I reached out to the Rt. Rev. Chris Geisler through the Board of World Mission. I had recently retired, and with a professional background in fire-rescue, a successful interest in construction, a knack for logistics, and a deep love for the mountains of Ashe County, I volunteered to serve on a team to assist however I was needed. Bishop Chris indeed saw a greater vision for my skills, and I was asked to consider taking on the new role of Project Coordinator for the BWM. I was humbled to be asked, and I have been blessed since our concentrated efforts began.
Soon after the storm, a group from Clemmons Moravian Church “adopted” a house in the town of Lansing. The Rev. Chris Thore had already started to raise funds and recruit volunteers to assist with rebuilding the structure, which had been filled with over four feet of water during the hurricane. It would be necessary to gut the whole house, tearing out walls and flooring. We had more than one conversation about whether the house could be repaired, but after much discussion and effort, we developed a workable plan. We knew it would be a tremendous challenge, but we were all willing to take on the task.
From October until May (through one of the coldest winters in North Carolina history),
faithful servants offered their time, talent and treasure to not just restore a house, but to restore a home, and to restore faith. About 120 folks from 22 congregations – from North Carolina, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Virginia – came together to serve, pray, and grow. We saw neighbor helping neighbor, young helping old, a limited skillset being used for the greater good. We are especially grateful for the core group of volunteers that sacrificed much of their free time and many Saturdays to clear brush or swing a hammer, or to sit and talk with the homeowner/resident about their memories and their hopes. When the project was completed, a house blessing was held (followed by a delicious potluck!), and Mrs. Phyllis, the home’s resident, was moved to tears as she walked across all new floor joists and subflooring; flipped a switch to welcome new and safe wiring; saw new dry wall, fresh paint, and cabinets; appreciated new pipes in a restored bathroom; and finally relaxed in comfortable heating and air.
Thankfully, in addition to the funds raised by the Clemmons congregation and those in their community, the Board of World Mission offered their generosity to assist with the rebuilding of the home, as well as other needs in North Carolina. Many local businesses “down the mountain” helped by donating products, and/or offering goods at a considerable discount. Laurel Ridge Camp and Conference Center served as a distribution hub for water, food and other supplies, as well as offering housing for some displaced residents in the area. Laurel Ridge also offered their facilities and assistance for room and board as volunteers came to help in the community. We definitely saw a “village” at work!
In addition to the house project, we have had teams to assist with clean up efforts:
clearing brush and debris from yards, from parks, and from the river. We have split lots of firewood. We have replaced doors and rebuilt decks. We have been called upon to help get some of the Lansing businesses back in their storefronts, so that the economic benefits may return to their quiet community. The needs here and throughout the state continue, and we are still being called to be the hands and feet of Christ. If you feel led to join us, either as an individual or as an organized team, please contact us at [email protected].
Your help would be appreciated, and the reward will be great!
Butch Sawtelle faithfully served as Disaster Response Project Coordinator with the Board of World Mission until August 2025. A member of Friedland Moravian Church, he concluded his formal role to spend more time with family. The BWM gives thanks for his leadership as Hurricane Helene relief work moves forward.
