MISSION AND OUTREACH
We have a rich history of serving the community. Grace Hospital, (now Carolinas HealthCare System – Blue Ridge) the first hospital in Burke County, was founded under the guidance of an early rector. Along with the hospital a nursing school was also established, it is now the Nursing School at Lenoir-Rhyne University in nearby Hickory.
Other achievements founded by Grace Church or its members include: the first Red Cross chapter in Burke County, the first Boy Scout troop, the Community Chest (now United Way), Hospice, as well as the first Boy Scout troop for the deaf in the United States.
The work of the church is never done and neither is the need in our community. We strive to engage in our community as individuals and a church as agents of hope and change. Found out below about some ways we are doing that and how to become involved.
GREEN TEAM
The Grace Episcopal Church Green Team believes that God has made us co-creators in the responsibility to hold sacred this good earth. As caretakers, stewards, and educators, we commit to enlightening ourselves and our community in the best ways of preserving God’s natural gifts. We also pledge to communicate and actively engage the world in faith-based solutions to environmental problems.
BACKPACK MINISTRY
The Backpack Ministry is a very important outreach ministry for our church and community. Teachers noticed that the children were not performing as well on Monday as they were during the week when they were receiving a hot breakfast and lunch at the school. In 2010 Grace Episcopal partnered with Hillcrest Elementary School to provide 20 backpacks; each filled with approximately 10 pounds of food on Friday, for the weekend. Since 2012, First Baptist Church has been working with us. Our program has now grown to more than 225 backpacks and 2,000 pounds of food per month.
Contact office@gracemorganton.org to get involved!
BUCM SOUP KITCHEN
Volunteers from Grace Church team up to prepare and serve meals at Burke United Christian Ministry. No experience is needed!
Contact office@gracemorganton.org to sign up for future shifts!
TINY PANTRY
In 2017 Grace Church noticed the increasing need for food and other essential supplies among the community. Taking advantage of the church's downtown location, the "Tiny Pantry" was born. Community members are invited to "Take what they need, leave what they can." It is a resource available to all, no questions asked. Since it's conception numerous church's and other organizations in the area and beyond have followed suit creating their own Tiny Pantries.
COMMUNITY STORY TIME
Second Monday of the Month at 10:30am August-May, Each Monday of June & July. Families are invited to join us at Grace to engage with their children and foster a love of reading through a short story, craft/activities, and snack.
No registration required.
Contact kids@gracemorganton.org for more information.
Currently on hold due to COVID-19
Grace Church is a partner agency of Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina (SHFBM). SHFBM partners and distributes food and essential grocery items to approximately 550 hunger feeding agencies in 19 counties in North and South Carolina. Agencies served include emergency pantries, soup kitchens, senior programs, shelters and low-income daycares.
"...Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me."