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Christianity and the Culture of Makers & Doers
In the modern world, the terms “makers” and “doers” have become central to the philosophy of self-sufficiency, creativity, and hands-on engagement with the world. A maker is someone who creates, whether through crafting, building, or innovating, while a doer is someone who takes action, driving change and pursuing tangible results. In many ways, the Christian faith aligns deeply with these values, both in its call to creation and its emphasis on service and action. Christianity not only encourages believers to create but also to embody these ideals as part of their spiritual journey, using their God-given gifts to serve others and glorify God.
Text by Simon Johns
Photo of Christ in the Abyss, Key West, FL courtesy of Design Impressario.
The Creator: God as the Ultimate Maker
The Christian faith begins with the foundational belief that God is the ultimate Creator. In the opening verses of Genesis, the Bible recounts how God created the heavens and the earth, shaping the world with purpose and intention. “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). This divine act of creation is not simply an event in the past, but a model for all of humanity. Christians believe that human beings are made in the image of God, the Imago Dei, and that this includes the capacity to create and shape the world in ways that reflect God’s creativity.
From the very beginning, God gives humanity the mandate to “fill the earth and subdue it” (Genesis 1:28), calling humans to cultivate and steward creation. This call is not just about controlling nature, but about participating in God’s ongoing act of creation. Christians view their work as an extension of God’s creative work, whether in the arts, sciences, business, or everyday tasks. The act of making something—whether it’s a piece of art, a meal, or a home— is seen as participating in the divine creative process, and an opportunity to bring glory to God through one’s craftsmanship.
Photo (top) by Andrew Kraslinikow.
The Maker Culture: Creativity as a Calling
In the context of Christianity, the idea of “makers” isn’t confined to the realm of physical objects but extends to all forms of creativity and invention. Christians believe that their talents—whether in music, writing, architecture, or technology—are gifts from God that should be used to serve others and bring about positive change in the world. Just as God made a good and orderly world, Christians are encouraged to use their creativity to make a world that reflects God’s goodness, truth, and beauty.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks about the importance of using one’s gifts in service to others. In 1 Peter 4:10, he writes: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” Christians are reminded that their talents— whether artistic, technical, or practical—are not solely for personal enjoyment or profit, but for the betterment of the community and the glory of God.
This perspective elevates the concept of “making” beyond mere craftsmanship to include the creation of things that foster human flourishing. Christian makers are not just interested in creating beautiful or functional objects but also in creating things that promote peace, justice, and love. Whether it’s developing technology that improves lives, designing buildings that serve communities, or writing stories that inspire, the work of a Christian maker can serve a higher purpose—reflecting the Creator’s love for humanity.
Photos (clockwise from left) Ely Cathedral, UK by Karen Cann and Pottery by Cristina Matos Albers.
The Doer’s Call: Action in the Service of Others
While “makers” focus on the act of creating, “doers” focus on the act of serving, taking action to make a tangible difference in the world. Christianity emphasizes action and service, especially in the teachings and life of Jesus Christ. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus repeatedly calls His followers to go beyond belief and to actively engage in loving others. In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus speaks about the importance of serving the least among us, saying that whatever is done for the hungry, thirsty, naked, or imprisoned is done for Him.
The call to action is also clear in the Epistle of James, which teaches that faith without works is dead. James writes: “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17). This verse underscores the idea that Christianity is not just about belief, but about living out that belief through tangible actions. The doer’s ethos aligns perfectly with the Christian call to love and serve one’s neighbor.
Christianity has historically emphasized action in the service of others through acts of charity, social justice, and community outreach. In this sense, the Christian “doer” is someone who actively works to alleviate suffering, promote justice, and bring about positive change. The Christian call to action is not passive; it is an invitation to engage with the world in meaningful and transformative ways. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, advocating for social justice, or helping those in need, the Christian doer is someone who embodies Christ’s love through practical service.
Photo (right) by Austin Kehmeier.
The Synergy of Makers and Doers in Christianity
At the intersection of the maker and doer lies the Christian understanding of work as both creative and purposeful. A Christian maker is not just someone who creates for personal fulfillment, nor is the Christian doer someone who serves merely for duty’s sake. Both are called to use their gifts in service to God and others, with an understanding that their work is part of a larger, divine plan.
In many ways, the life of Jesus Christ serves as the perfect model for how these two callings come together. As both a teacher and a healer, Jesus was deeply involved in both creating (through His miracles and parables) and doing (through His acts of service and sacrifice). His work was never isolated; it was always to serve others, pointing people toward the Kingdom of God. Similarly, Christians today are encouraged to create and act in ways that reflect Jesus’ love and care for the world.
Moreover, Christians are called to foster a sense of community and collaboration in their work. A maker and a doer working together create something greater than the sum of their efforts. The Body of Christ, as described in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, is a powerful metaphor for how different gifts and talents come together for a common purpose. Just as the body works as one with many parts, so too does the Christian community thrive when makers and doers unite their efforts in the service of God and others.
Embracing the Call to Create and Serve
Christianity’s connection to the culture of makers and doers is profound. Christians are called to create, to innovate, to work, and to serve with a heart full of love for God and others. Both the act of making and the act of doing reflect God’s nature—God as Creator and God as Servant. In embracing this dual calling, Christians are invited to participate in the divine work of shaping the world in ways that reflect God’s beauty, truth, and justice.
In the digital age, where technology often drives much of the cultural conversation, the Christian understanding of creativity and service reminds us that the true value of our work is found not in what we create for ourselves but in what we contribute to the well-being of others and the glory of God. Christians, as makers and doers, are called not just to craft beautiful things, but to shape a better world—one where faith and action come together to reflect God’s love and care for all creation.
Photo (right) Christ Healing the Sick by Rembrandt ca. 1649 courtesy of nelsonatkins.org
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In 2025, our firm proudly celebrates our 50th anniversary. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey with us. Helen Adams Realty is more than a company—it’s a family, a community, and a legacy. Here’s to the next 50 years of serving you with the same trust, care, and excellence that Helen envisioned in 1975.
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Anthony Cherry, after completing the EMT and Paramedic programs, emphasized the value of York Tech’s supportive environment. He believes that the college provides all the necessary tools for success, allowing students to focus on their goals and personal growth.
Where Makers + Doers Begin
A Inside York Tech’s Culture of Creativity
Text by Trisha James
t York Technical College, creativity isn’t just encouraged—it’s built into the very fabric of the institution. From hands-on learning to career-focused programs, York Tech is where makers and doers start their journeys toward becoming professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders in their fields.
Photos courtesy of York Technical College.
Lang transitioned from theater performance to behind-the-camera work through the Teleproduction Technology program. The hands-on experience from day one not only honed her technical skills but also restored her confidence, impacting her personal and professional life profoundly.
A Launchpad for Makers + Doers
York Technical College has long been a hub for students seeking practical skills in highdemand fields like nursing, welding, computer technology, early childhood education, surgical technology, and industrial maintenance. With more than 90 programs spanning skilled trades, STEM, business, health sciences, and emerging tech, the college emphasizes learning by doing. Whether it’s a student perfecting their welding technique, developing a mobile app, or practicing in a healthcare simulation lab, York Tech provides the foundation for turning ideas into real-world impact.
Ashley
Photos courtesy of York Technical College.
Jacob Anglin discovered his passion for precision and craftsmanship in the Machine Tool Technology program. Within just nine months, he acquired skills that impressed potential employers, leading to a successful career in the manufacturing industry.
What sets York Tech apart is its unwavering focus on experiential learning. Students don’t just sit in classrooms; they immerse themselves in real-world applications. Labs, shops, and specialized classrooms mirror the environments students will work in after graduation, offering an unparalleled hands-on education that prepares them to hit the ground running.
Real-World Learning in Action
The college’s emphasis on applied learning means students are constantly encouraged to put theory into practice. From state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs to advanced auto mechanics bays and cybersecurity labs, York Tech ensures students have access to the same tools and technologies used in the workforce.
Faculty play a critical role in this immersive experience. Many instructors bring years of industry experience to the classroom—whether from hospitals, manufacturing plants, or tech firms—providing students with both mentorship and valuable industr y insights.
Photos courtesy of York Technical College.
Felicia Nichols, a graduate of the Welding program, found a supportive community at York Tech that reignited her passion for the trade. After graduating, she made history by becoming the college’s first African American female welding instructor, demonstrating her commitment to paving the way for future generations of welders.
Student and Alumni Spotlights
York Tech’s hands-on, career-driven approach translates into real results. Many students find employment before graduation or go on to launch their own businesses.
Felicia Nichols, a graduate of the Welding program, found a supportive community at York Tech that reignited her passion for the trade. After graduating, she made history by becoming the college’s first African American female welding instructor, demonstrating her commitment to paving the way for future generations of welders.
Jacob Anglin discovered his passion for precision and craftsmanship in the Machine Tool Technology program. Within just nine months, he acquired skills that impressed potential employers, leading to a successful career in the manufacturing industry.
Ashley Lang transitioned from theater performance to behind-the-camera work through the Teleproduction Technology program. The hands-on experience from day one not only honed her technical skills but also restored her confidence, impacting her personal and professional life profoundly.
Anthony Cherry, after completing the EMT and Paramedic programs, emphasized the value of York Tech’s supportive environment. He believes that the college provides all the necessary tools for success, allowing students to focus on their goals and personal growth.
Photos courtesy of York Technical College.
Collaborating with Local Industry
A key to York Tech’s success lies in its deep partnerships with local businesses and industries. Through internships, apprenticeships, and curriculum collaboration, students receive firsthand exposure to the demands and expectations of the real world. Industry partners such as Piedmont Medical Center, Continental Tire, and local IT firms help shape course content, ensuring alignment with current workforce needs.
These partnerships don’t just provide experience—they lead to job offers. Many employers actively recruit York Tech students, knowing the quality of their training and their readiness to contribute on day one.
Looking Ahead
York Technical College is constantly evolving. In Fall 2024 alone, the college introduced seven new programs, including Exercise Science, Cloud Computing, and Advanced Manufacturing, ensuring students have access to the tools and knowledge needed in tomorrow’s workforce.
York Tech isn’t just a place to learn; it’s a place to create—whether it’s a new business, a career, or a work of art. To explore programs or register for an upcoming open house, visit www.yorktech.edu or follow them on Facebook or Instagram @yorktech.
Photos courtesy of York Technical College.
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Dr. Neha Taori, DDS
THE RETURN OF HANDS-ON WORK IN A DIGITAL AGE
In an era dominated by digital technology, automation, and artificial intelligence, the value of hands-on work seems to have been somewhat diminished. Many industries have embraced the convenience and efficiency offered by machines, leaving behind traditional crafts, manual labor, and skills that once defined entire societies. However, as the digital age continues to evolve, there’s a surprising resurgence in hands-on work, as more people recognize its benefits and seek a deeper connection to their physical environments.
Text by Mia Perkins
Photo by Arturro.
The return of hands-on work is not about rejecting the technological advances of the modern world, but rather finding a balance between the digital and physical realms—embracing the tactile, the creative, and the personal in a fast-paced, machine-driven world. This movement speaks to a growing desire for mindfulness, sustainability, and self-sufficiency in a world that often feels increasingly disconnected from tangible experiences.
Rediscovering the Craft
One of the most notable ways in which hands-on work is making a comeback is through a renewed interest in traditional craftsmanship. Industries such as woodworking, pottery, metalworking, and textiles have gained renewed attention, often through artisanal and small-batch production. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube have played a pivotal role in amplifying this resurgence, offering individuals a space to showcase their skills and connect with others who share their passions. Online tutorials, forums, and videos have also made learning these crafts more accessible to a global audience, fostering a sense of community and shared knowledge.
The craft revival speaks to a larger cultural shift towards appreciating the process rather than just the product. People are increasingly drawn to handmade items, valuing the time, effort, and skill that go into creating them. Whether it’s a handcrafted chair, a bespoke leather wallet, or a hand-thrown ceramic mug, there’s something inherently satisfying about owning and using products that carry the imprint of a human creator.
Photo by Loli Clement.
Photo by Clay Banks.
Digital Detox and the Call for Tangibility
As much as digital devices have simplified our lives, the constant connectivity they offer often leads to burnout, stress, and a sense of overwhelm. The return to hands-on work can be seen as a response to this overstimulation. Activities like gardening, knitting, woodworking, and even baking provide a much-needed respite from the screen-driven existence that defines modern life.
Engaging in hands-on work allows people to disconnect from the digital noise and immerse themselves in something tangible. The process of creating or repairing something with one’s own hands brings a sense of accomplishment that digital work often cannot match. It’s a reminder that we, as humans, are capable of creating and shaping the world around us—not just through code and algorithms, but through physical, meaningful actions.
This need for tangibility has also found expression in the rise of “maker culture”—a movement that encourages people to create, invent, and innovate using both traditional tools and modern technology. The maker movement, which includes DIY projects, 3D printing, and open-source hardware, combines the best of both worlds. People are building their own products, machines, and devices, often mixing old-school craftsmanship with cuttingedge technology.
Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency
Another factor driving the return of hands-on work is the growing emphasis on sustainability and self-sufficiency. With increasing concern over environmental issues and waste, many people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprints. By learning how to fix things rather than discard them, or by creating their own goods from raw materials, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable world.
Sewing, knitting, and upcycling clothes are just a few examples of how hands-on work can promote sustainability. By mending clothes or creating one’s own fashion, people can avoid contributing to the fast fashion industry, which is notorious for its environmental damage. Similarly, gardening and growing your own food have become a powerful tool in promoting selfsufficiency, helping people reconnect with nature while reducing their reliance on industrial agriculture.
This trend extends beyond individuals to larger communities as well. The rise of urban farming, for example, showcases the value of hands-on work in creating local food systems. Farmers’ markets, community gardens, and cooperatives are helping to shift the paradigm from industrial food production to a more localized, sustainable model. In these settings, the act of growing and producing food is not just about sustenance—it’s about regaining control over what we eat and how it’s grown.
Photo by Valentina Ivanova.
The Intersection of Technology and Craft
While there is a clear return to traditional hands-on work, the digital age offers tools that enhance and expand these practices. Technology is not inherently opposed to hands-on work; in fact, it can enrich it. Digital fabrication tools like laser cutters, CNC machines, and 3D printers allow artisans to push the boundaries of their craft in innovative ways. These tools give creators access to precision and complexity that would have been nearly impossible to achieve by hand alone.
Moreover, digital platforms provide a space for these craftsmen and women to showcase their work to a global audience. Online marketplaces such as Etsy, as well as social media channels, allow people to monetize their crafts, turning a hobby into a viable business. Digital tools also help creators streamline their production processes, making it easier for them to focus on the artistic and creative aspects of their work rather than the logistical details.
The synergy between digital technology and traditional craft is evident in the rise of the “hybrid artisan.” These are people who blend the best of both worlds, using technology to enhance their craftsmanship while maintaining a strong connection to the hands-on processes that define their work. For instance, a designer may use a computer-aided design (CAD) program to conceptualize a piece, but then hand-finish it to add personal touches that only human hands can achieve.
A Return To Hands-On
In a world where convenience often comes at the expense of personal engagement, the return of hands-on work in the digital age is a muchneeded reminder of the value of craftsmanship, sustainability, and human connection. Whether through traditional skills or new innovations, hands-on work enables us to reconnect with the tangible aspects of life that technology often obscures. It invites us to slow down, take pride in the process, and rediscover the joy of creating something with our own hands.
As the digital world continues to shape our lives, it’s reassuring to know that there’s still a place for the tactile, the creative, and the personal. The return to hands-on work is not just nostalgia—it’s a forward-looking movement that brings us closer to a more mindful, sustainable, and fulfilling future.
Photo by Alexander Grey.
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LOCAL MAKERS + DOERS
Text by Brice Jacobson
Join us in celebrating the heartbeat of our community: our local small business owners. Across every corner of our neighborhoods, these dedicated individuals pour their creativity, passion, and expertise into delivering products and services that make our lives richer and more fulfilling. From the craftsmen who create one-of-akind items to the entrepreneurs who provide essential services, each business owner adds their unique touch to the fabric of our community, enhancing our day-to-day experiences in countless ways.
These local businesses represent the very essence of resilience and innovation, continually adapting to meet the needs of our community while adding a personal touch that sets them apart. Whether it’s the family dentist fostering lifelong health, the coffee shop owner brewing up warmth and connection, the supplier of trailers, lawn mowers, and sheds providing the tools for life’s big projects, or the farm market delivery service bringing fresh, local produce right to our doorsteps, these entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods.
As we celebrate their incredible contributions, let’s not only honor their entrepreneurial spirit but also commit to supporting their continued success. By choosing to shop local, we invest in the vibrant ecosystem that makes our community thrive, enjoying high-quality goods and services while ensuring these businesses remain a cornerstone of our shared future.
Meet the dreamers, the risk-takers, and the hardworking individuals who enrich our lives every day. Let’s raise a toast to our local small business owners—champions of creativity, innovation, and community spirit—whose dedication and passion make our world a better place, one product and ser vice at a time.
Photo courtesy of Humble Cup Coffee Co.
Dr. Neha Taori – Arden Mill Family Dentistry
Dr. Neha Taori brings over a decade of experience and a compassionate, personalized approach to her work at Arden Mill Family Dentistry. Originally trained in India, she earned her DDS from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA, and has been caring for patients across the U.S. since 2015.
Now based in Fort Mill, Dr. Taori offers comprehensive family and cosmetic dental care for patients of all ages. Whether she’s helping a child feel at ease during their first visit or transforming a smile through cosmetic treatments, her focus is always on building trust and boosting confidence.
Her practice, Arden Mill Family Dentistry, provides a full range of services—including routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, deep cleanings, and extractions—delivered with state-of-the-art technology and clear, compassionate communication. With flexible hours and Saturday appointments, Dr. Taori strives to make dental care more accessible for busy families.
Outside the office, she enjoys time with her husband and two children and actively gives back through volunteer work, including with Mission of Mercy. For Dr. Taori, dentistry isn’t just about oral health—it’s about creating lasting relationships and helping each patient feel truly cared for.
Photos by Louis Roman.
Nick Conforti – Humble Cup Coffee Co.
Humble Cup Coffee Co. was founded in 2019 by Nick Conforti and his wife, Ashley, inspired by a shared love of coffee that dates back to their very first date in 2008. What began as a simple moment over a cup of coffee eventually sparked a vision: to create a space where people could gather, connect, and find community—one cup at a time.
After relocating to the greater Charlotte area in 2014, Nick began roasting small batches of coffee in his garage, sharing them with neighbors and friends. That passion quickly grew into something more.
From setting up a humble pop-up at the Fort Mill Farmers Market to building a custom coffee cart and later transforming a 1950s horse trailer into a mobile coffee bar, Nick embraced every stage of the journey with creativity and purpose.
In 2023, they opened Humble Cup’s first brick-and-mortar shop in Fort Mill. Today, Nick continues to lead the business with the same heart it was founded on—creating meaningful connections and a sense of belonging through something as simple as a well-brewed cup of coffee.
Photos courtesy of Humble Cup Coffee Co.
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William Boss – The Trailer Store
For William, life and work are deeply rooted in faith, family, and purpose. A devoted husband and father, William credits his relationship with God as the foundation of everything he does. “All of my accomplishments and success are due to His giving and love towards me,” he says.
Originally from Florida, William moved to South Carolina in 2007 after years in the corporate world. Looking for more flexibility to homeschool his children and lead a more balanced life, he started The Trailer Store—a locally owned business that sells enclosed trailers, utility trailers, dump trailers, lawn mowers, and sheds.
Nearly a decade later, The Trailer Store has become the leading seller of enclosed trailers in South Carolina. William attributes the company’s success to both hard work and divine guidance. “With Him as my partner, how can I lose?”
Outside of the business, William and his wife have spent years leading home family fellowships and teaching others to know God in a deeper, more dynamic way. He speaks warmly of his wife—whom he calls the best part of what God has given him—and their two children: a son studying to become a commercial pilot, and a daughter excelling in sports as she heads into high school.
For William, business isn’t just about selling trailers—it’s about building a life filled with peace, service, and spiritual growth.
Photos by Tracey Roman.
Adriana Gheorghiu – Farm Fresh Carolinas
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Adriana describes herself as “Romanian at heart and international in spirit”—a fitting reflection of the adventurous path that’s shaped both her life and her work. Alongside her husband and children, she’s lived across continents: from Romania to Turkey, Switzerland, Canada, and back to Romania, before finally arriving in the U.S. in the fall of 2023 on an entrepreneurship visa.
An entrepreneur for most of her life, Adriana has led ventures ranging from logistics to a yoga studio. But it was her personal journey—motherhood, distance from family, and a deep dive into health and wellness beginning in 2020—that led her to her latest chapter: co-owning and operating Farm Fresh Carolinas.
Founded in 2017 by another passionate entrepreneur, Farm Fresh Carolinas delivers organic and naturally grown local produce, raw honey, and diet-conscious products (including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options) to homes and offices throughout the Charlotte area. Adriana took over leadership in 2023, with a mission to not just provide nourishing food, but to build a community centered around wellness and connection. “I want to make a difference in people’s lives,” she says. She’s also passionate about supporting fellow small producers and artisans, and is currently working to expand Farm Fresh’s small Fort Mill shop into a vibrant local hub.
For Adriana, this isn’t just business—it’s the continuation of a personal journey, now rooted in a new community she’s eager to grow with.
Photos by Tracey Roman.
Isaiah 55:11
“SO SHALL MY WORD BE THAT GOETH FORTH OUT OF MY MOUTH: IT SHALL NOT RETURN UNTO ME VOID, BUT IT SHALL ACCOMPLISH THAT WHICH I PLEASE, AND IT SHALL PROSPER IN THE THING WHERETO I SENT IT.”
