In the heart of Boone, Grace Lutheran Church’s Grace Builders ministry stands as a symbol of service, bringing warmth and hope to families in need. Their mission over the years has been simple but essential: to provide firewood for those who relied on wood-burning stoves to heat their homes during the harsh winter months. But as demand grew, so did the challenge. Splitting logs by hand was slow, exhausting, and limited the amount of firewood they could provide.

Recognizing the need for a more efficient solution, Grace Builders sought a way to increase their output while easing the burden on their dedicated volunteers. Through a generous grant, they were able to purchase a powerful 42-ton log-splitter. This wasn’t just any log-splitter—it had a hydraulic arm capable of lifting entire logs onto the splitting surface, reducing manual labor significantly. Equipped with a moveable 4-way blade, it already promised a more efficient process. But the innovation didn’t stop there.

A local metalworking shop, inspired by the mission, donated their time and resources to enhance the splitter’s capabilities. By welding two 4-way blades together, they created a custom 8-way splitting head, doubling the efficiency of each log-splitting cycle. Now, with just two or three volunteers, massive logs could be lifted, split into eight usable pieces, and stacked for distribution in record time.

This project was more than just an equipment upgrade—it was a testament to the power of community collaboration. Grace Builders led the Helping Hands Woodlot, an initiative that brought together volunteers from local congregations, university students, and even county officials. The woodlot itself was housed on county-owned property, provided rent-free, and worked in partnership with the Hunger and Health Coalition, which distributed firewood vouchers to those in need. It was a true embodiment of embracing neighbors in their time of hardship while uniting people from religious, governmental, and secular backgrounds for a common cause.

The spirit of generosity ran through every aspect of the project. The wood itself was donated by local tree companies, preventing waste and turning unwanted logs into a vital resource. Grace Builders remained an all-volunteer organization, with individuals giving their time and effort to split and stack firewood. Even the operational costs—such as gas and supplies—were covered by a small network of financial donors who believed in the mission.

At its core, this project was a living expression of God’s work in the world. By providing firewood, Grace Builders was helping families avoid impossible choices—like deciding between heating their homes and putting food on the table. The woodlot was more than a place where logs were split; it was a ministry of compassion, ensuring that no family had to endure the bitter cold alone. Through this work, the love of God was made tangible—offering warmth, safety, and hope to those who needed it most.

Each load of firewood became manna from heaven for struggling families, a tangible sign that they were not alone. The impact of the project rippled far beyond the warmth it provided—barriers of social, cultural, political, and generational divides melted away as volunteers worked side by side, bound by a shared purpose. The woodlot became a space of trust, belonging, and unity, where all were welcome to serve and be served.

One volunteer, who was experiencing homelessness himself, became one of the woodlot’s most dedicated workers. He showed up nearly every day, splitting wood for others who needed it just as much as he once had. His words reflected the heart of the ministry:

“I have relied on this wood before. So, for as long as I can, I will do what I can to make sure there is enough wood for others who need it.”

In the end, the project wasn’t just about firewood. It was about warmth—not only the physical warmth of a fire on a cold night but the warmth of a community coming together, ensuring no one was left in the cold. Through faith, generosity, and hard work, Grace Builders created something lasting—a ministry that not only met a physical need but also strengthened the bonds of kindness and service in their community.

The North Carolina Synod’s Michael Peeler/Virginia Casey Funds have blessed synodical ministries, rostered ministers, congregations, and agencies and institutions. The 2025 application is now open; applications are due on Wednesday, April 30. Funds for grants awarded will be able to be dispersed following the May 28, 2025 Synod Council meeting. 

What ministry of your congregation might benefit from the synod’s Michael Peeler/Virginia Casey Funds? Learn more; read the guidelines.

APPLY today.