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Showing posts from 2025

Welcome New Members, M:T Expo, Celebrating 160 Years (Pastoral Emphasis for 10/12)

Welcome Our New Members! We’re delighted to welcome Yvonne Campbel , Elaine Warmack , and Maggie Mae Smith to the Mt. Zion family! We thank God for adding to our church and look forward to growing, serving, and worshiping together. If you see them around, be sure to greet them warmly and help them feel at home. Missions: Together Expo   You’re invited to join believers from across the Triangle for the Missions: Together Expo on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Cornerstone Fellowship Church in Apex, NC . This gathering is designed to inspire, equip, and connect us for God’s mission—whether across the world or across the street. We’re thrilled to welcome Rosaria Butterfield as our keynote speaker! She’ll be sharing how to “grow up in Christ and go with gospel hospitality,” starting right in our own homes. Don’t miss this opportunity to be challenged and encouraged in your walk with Christ. 👉 Register today at missionstogether.church Church Family Meetin...

October Birthdays & Anniversaries, M:T Expo, My Hope Sunday (Pastoral Emphasis for 10/5)

 🎂 October Birthdays & Anniversaries This month we’re celebrating birthdays and anniversaries in our Mt. Zion family.  Happy Birthday  to our October babies. Happy Anniversary to those celebrating in October!  Daquon & Ch'ressa Johnson – 9 years on 10/15  Victor & Caroline Lindsey – 10 years on 10/29  Casey & Charity McDaniel – 14 years on 10/7  Evangelist Patrick & Deaconess Erica Wilson - 16 years on 10/3  Eric & Danielle Mtika - 17 years on 10/26/2  Christopher & Emily Spooney – 26 years on 10/23  Willie & (my leading lady) Anita Harris – 27 years on 10/3  Deacon Charles & Deaconess Shirley Smith – 45 years on 10/25 October Senior Birthday Surprise: We’re celebrating Karen Cochrane Brown this month—let’s shower her with love! 💜 Casting All Married Couples The Fine Arts Ministry (FAM) is putting together a special couples’ piece for all ages and...

Dance Ministry Opportunity, Girl Power Summit, Theological Seminar (Pastoral Emphasis for 9/28)

Recently Came Forward   We celebrate with those who have recently come forward: David Gabriel – Trusted Christ as his Personal Savior and got baptized today. Kokethia Davis (with her son, Ananias) – Joined Mt. Zion on Christian Experience. Let’s continue to lift them in prayer as they take these important steps of faith. Casting All Married Couples – Dance Ministry Opportunity Do you and your spouse love to dance? The Fine Arts Ministry is inviting all married couples to join a special couples’ piece—no matter your age, experience, or skill level! Interest Meeting : Sunday, October 5, at 12:00 p.m. in the MPR. Come ready to move, connect, and glorify God together through the art of dance. For more information or to express interest, please contact: Danelle Gambrell Clark or Brittany Hardy Graham . Girl Power Summit – October 10 The Titus 2 Women’s Ministry is excited to host the Girl Power Summit on Friday, October 10 . This year’s theme is Chosen . This spec...

Recently Came Forward, Protect the Flock Training, Theological Seminar (Pastoral Emphasis for 9/21)

 Recently Came Forward We rejoice with those whom God is adding to our church family! Maggie Mae Smith – Joined on Christian Experience Latesha Jones – Joined Under Watch Care Let’s continue to pray for them and welcome them with the love of Christ. Protect the Flock Training – Saturday, September 27, 9 AM – 2 PM Mt. Zion will host the Protect the Flock Training , led by Called to Peace Ministries . This important training will help us grow in awareness and response to domestic abuse, equipping us to shepherd God’s people with wisdom, compassion, and care. Because of the significance of this issue in our churches and communities, all are invited to attend , and we are strongly encouraging all leaders to be present . Date & Time: Saturday, September 27, 9 AM – 2 PM Location: Mt. Zion Lunch will be provided  PLEASE RSVP HERE :  https://bit.ly/protect-the-flock   Together, we can ensure our church remains a safe place where the vulnerable are p...

Celebrations of Faith, Protect the Flock Training, A Call to Prayer in Troubling Times (Pastoral Emphasis for 9/14)

 Bereavement Please keep Sis. Alicia Welcher and family in your prayers on the passing of her father and aunt (his sister). This loss also touches Min. Rasheeda Oliver , as they were her grandfather and great-aunt. Both were laid to rest yesterday. May God’s peace and comfort surround the family during this difficult time. Celebrations of Faith We rejoice in how God is moving in the lives of our members: Amaya Wallace – Rededicated her life to Christ and joined Mt. Zion. Aubrey Eason (16), daughter of Sis. Cassandra Page – Recently trusted Christ as her personal Savior and is now a candidate for baptism. Welcome New (Returning) Member: Sis. Jessikah Amekuedi (and her son, Major). We celebrate with you and thank God for His saving and sustaining grace! Protect the Flock Training On Saturday, September 27 , Mt. Zion will host the Protect the Flock Training , led by Called to Peace Ministries . This training will help our church grow in awareness and response to do...

September birthdays & Anniversaries, Protect the Flock Training, Music Ministry Recruitment (Pastoral Emphasis for 9/7)

  🎂 September Birthdays Happy Birthday to all our September babies! May this year be filled with blessings, health, and joy as you continue to walk with the Lord. Special recognition goes to our September Senior Birthday Surprise honoree, Deacon Tim Jones . We thank God for your life, your faithfulness, and your service. 💍 Anniversaries We’re so grateful for the examples of love and commitment in our church family. Congratulations to these couples celebrating their anniversaries this month: Joseph & Shenithia Griffin – 18 years (9/1) Deacon Clifford & Regina Hardaway – 36 years (9/1) Kevin & Shebbie Coppage – 33 years (9/4) Deacon David & Ina Bowser – 26 years (9/17) Elder Adrian & Deaconess Barbara Jones – 32 years (9/18) Bernard & Danelle Clark – 6 years (9/27) We celebrate your unions and pray that God continues to bless and strengthen your marriages. 🛡️ Protect the Flock Training – September 27, 9 AM Mark your calendars! On...

Minnesota School Shooting, Music Ministry Recruitment, Ark Encounter Trip (Pastoral Emphasis for 8/31)

Minnesota School Shooting Our hearts are heavy over the tragic school and church shooting in Minneapolis at Annunciation Catholic School, where two children lost their lives and many others—some as young as six—are recovering from serious injuries. Sadly, we couldn't get through a full week of traditional school before something like this happens. In this time of profound sorrow, let us hold close in prayer the grieving parents, families, and the entire Annunciation community. Though we cannot fully comprehend their pain, we can stand alongside them in faith, offering compassion, and intercession. May God bring comfort to those who mourn, healing to the wounded, and peace to a terrified community.  Of course, a mass shooting always brings up the issue for stricter gun laws. I agree we do need good legislation and sensible gun laws because it is the government's responsibility to protect its citizens. Ultimately, that will not solve our problem. For a country that has been ...

Back to School Prayer, Bridging the Gap, Book Launch Party (Pastoral Emphasis for 8/24)

 🙏 Back to School Prayer We continue to lift up our children, youth, teachers, and parents as they transition back into the rhythm of school. May God’s covering, wisdom, and peace be upon them throughout the year.   🕊 Bereavement Please keep Sis. Jean Strudwick in prayer as she grieves the loss of her brother in Nebraska. Let’s encourage her with our love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.   🎶 Bridging the Gap Youth Reunion & Concert When I first joined Mt. Zion, our children’s choir was called the Sunshine Children’s Choir . Back then, the choir was full of kids joyfully singing praises to God. Today, many of those same children are now in their 30s—and they’re coming back together for a special Bridging the Gap Reunion and Concert ! This event is not just for those who grew up in the Sunshine Choir—it’s open to all generations . It’s called a “reunion” because many of them are returning to fellowship, reconnect with past and present leaders,...

Welcome New Member, Book Launch Party, Church-Wide Prayer Rally (Pastoral Prayer for 8/17)

Bereavement   Please keep Bro. Van Johnson in your prayers as he grieves the passing of his brother, Louis Johnson , of California, after a long illness. May the Lord grant peace and comfort to Bro. Johnson and his family during this difficult time.   Welcome New Member We are grateful to welcome Sis. Beverly Jones as a new member of our church family. She has completed the New Members Orientation and Membership Interview. Let’s continue to surround her with love, encouragement, and fellowship as she grows with us in Christ.   Book Launch Party   I'm excited to celebrate the launch of my new book on Tuesday, August 26 at 7:00 PM . Those who reserved a copy can pick up their book and pay at the launch party. Additional copies will also be available for purchase. I will be signing books. This will be a joyful evening of fellowship and celebration, and everyone is invited to come out! Please be sure to register in advance so accommodations can be made ...

Recently Came Forward, Series Break, Book Launch Party (Pastoral Emphasis for 8/10)

Recently Came Forward We’re excited to share that Kiara Avery has come forward as a Candidate for Baptism . We rejoice with her in this step of faith and look forward to celebrating her baptism soon! Series Break   We’ll be taking a short break from our Plumb Line sermon series next Sunday, as Anita and I will be away for Gabrielle’s college move-in weekend . Thank you for your prayers for us and for Gabrielle as she begins this exciting new chapter.   Book Launch Party   I’m thrilled to announce that we’re hosting a Book Launch Party for my new book on Tuesday, August 26 at 7:00 PM — and everyone is invited! This will be a special evening to celebrate together, hear more about the book, and enjoy fellowship. If you’ve reserved a copy, you can pick it up and pay at the launch party. We’ll also have additional copies available for purchase. Please register ahead of time so we can plan for seating, refreshments, and other details. Let’s make it a night of joy, conne...

Recently Joined, August Birthdays & Anniversaries, 160th Anniversary (Pastoral Emphasis for 8/3)

🙌🏾 Recently Joined We joyfully welcome the following individuals who have united with Mt. Zion on Christian Experience: Elaine Warmack (sister of Sis. Mary Higginbotham) Beverly Madison Richard Vinson We thank God for leading them to our church family and look forward to growing together in faith and fellowship! 🎂 Happy Birthday to All Our August Babies! We’re sending a big Mt. Zion “Happy Birthday!” to everyone celebrating this month. May your year be filled with joy, growth, and blessings. Be sure to sing a heartfelt “Happy Birthday” to those around you! 🎉 August Senior Birthday Surprise : Let’s show some extra love to Cynthia Jones , our August Senior Birthday honoree! 💍 Celebrating August Anniversaries Join us in congratulating the couples in our congregation who are celebrating anniversaries this month—from 7 years to 55 years of love and faithfulness! Laurent & Tonnie Bracey – 7 years (8/18) Donnell & Jenae Fordham – 8 years (8/26) Charles ...

A New Life in Christ, T2 Retreat Recap, Singles Serving (Pastoral Emphasis for 7/27)

🙌 A New Life in Christ We rejoice in sharing that Olivia Njoloma (age 9) recently trusted Christ as her personal Savior and is now a candidate for baptism ! Praise God for the work He continues to do in the hearts of our children. Please keep Olivia and her family in your prayers as she takes this next step of obedience and faith. 📱 Have Questions About Today’s Message? Due to our Church Family Meeting following today’s service, we will not have our regular Q&A time. However, if you have any questions about the sermon, you are encouraged to text them in —we’ll respond during the week and possibly address them during next Sunday’s Q&A. 🎥 T2 Women’s Retreat Recap A few weeks ago, twenty-nine women gathered for our T2 Women’s Retreat , including twelve guests of Mt. Zion members! It was a special time of fellowship, growth, and being in God’s presence. The theme was “Above All,” with a focus on Psalm 96:4 : “For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; he is ...

Christmas in July Food Drive, Singles Serving at Dorcas, Church Family Meeting (Pastoral Emphasis for 7/20)

 🎄 Christmas in July Food Drive We’re partnering with Dorcas Ministries for the annual Christmas in July Food Drive ! From July 1st through July 25th , we’re collecting non-perishable food items to bless local families in need. Stop by the Welcome Center each week to pick up the latest list of needed items. Week 4 donations include : Granola Bars Nuts Dried Fruit Snack-Size Chips Cereal Bars Lance Crackers Saltine Crackers Graham Crackers Your contributions make a real difference—thank you in advance for giving generously! 🎉 160th Church Anniversary Celebration This year, Mt. Zion celebrates a historic milestone— 160 years of ministry ! Our 2025 theme is: Rooted in Christ, Growing in Grace. Join us on Saturday, October 18th at Ritter Park for a day filled with food, fellowship, and fun at our free family cookout . Activities include: Music Games Face Painting Kids’ Playground Basketball Softball Line Dancing Lessons Board Games & Ca...

Responding to the Flooding, Christmas in July Food Drive, New Sermon Series (Pastoral Emphasis for 7/13)

Responding to the Flooding All of us are painfully aware of the devastating flooding that struck our nation recently. As of Friday evening, the confirmed death toll in Texas has risen to 129, with at least 150 individuals still missing across the state. Our hearts are heavy, and we grieve for the lives lost and the families enduring unimaginable pain. One of the first things people tend to do is look for someone to blame. Was it the fault of the warning system not being early enough? Was it the fault of the government (state and federal)? Was it the fault of God? If God is so good, why do we suffer with natural disasters like flooding that takes the lives of seemingly innocent people like young children? The reality is that the fault lies with us. Humanity decided to rebel against the Creator God, thereby, ushering in sin and the fall from God's perfect creation. Natural disasters happen because we live in a fallen world ravaged by sin. Natural disasters like these floods are trag...

VBS Thanks, Testimony, Christmas in July Food Drive (Pastoral Emphasis for 6/29)

  VBS Wrap-Up  We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Vacation Bible School! What a joy it was to journey to Wonder Junction , where we marveled at the beauty of Jesus and discovered how we are called to live for His glory. The energy, enthusiasm, and eagerness of everyone made it an unforgettable experience. A special thank you goes out to our amazing teachers and volunteers who gave their time, love, and creativity to make VBS a great success.    Testimony We are also grateful for the encouraging video testimony shared by Sis.  Janae Branch —what a blessing to hear how God has blessed her and her daughter Logan.     (RSS Subscribers: Click here to watch)   Christmas in July Drive As we turn the corner into July, we’re excited to participate in the Christmas in July Food Drive . Mt. Zion is partnering with several area churches and Dorcas Ministries to collect food donations to help meet local ne...

Oneness Marriage Ministry Fellowship, VBS: Wonder Junction (Pastoral Emphasis for 6/22)

🍽️ Oneness Marriage Ministry Fellowship – Today! To all our married couples, the Oneness Marriage Ministry is hosting its special fellowship gathering this afternoon from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at Carolina BBQ . It’s going to be a meaningful time of food, fun, and encouragement as we strengthen our marriages and build lasting connections. If you have any questions, please reach out to Wayne and Tomeico Faison — they’ll be glad to assist you. 🤠 VBS: Welcome to Wonder Junction ! – June 25–29 Are you ready for a grand ol’ time? Then saddle up, grab your stirrups and lasso, and head on over to Wonder Junction —our Vacation Bible School happening this week, June 25–29 ! This year’s theme is all about marveling at Jesus and discovering how we can live for His glory. It’ll be a week full of powerful lessons, joyful songs, creative crafts, and exciting activities for kids of all ages. If you have questions or need assistance, our dedicated VBS team is ready to help. Let’s make this yea...

Welcome New Members, VBS, Happy Father's Day (Pastoral Emphasis for 6/15)

  Welcome to Our New Members! We are overjoyed to welcome the newest members of our church family (after completing NMO and their Membership Interview): Steven and Lisa Bradley Justin Casey We’re excited to have them be a part of the church body. Be sure to greet them and help them feel right at home! Oneness Ministry Fellowship Our Oneness Marriage Ministry invites all married couples to a special time of food, fun, and fellowship at Carolina BBQ on Saturday, June 22 . It’s a great opportunity to strengthen your bond and connect with other couples in the church. For more details, please see Wayne and Tomeico Faison . Come out and enjoy a beautiful time with your spouse and the community! Vacation Bible School Get ready for a week of excitement, learning, and spiritual growth! VBS is happening June 25–28 , and we can’t wait to see what God will do in the lives of our children. Registration is now open in Realm. Families are encouraged to sign up early to help u...

Congrats to High School Graduates, JA Lewis Scholarship Winners, VBS (Pastoral Emphasis for 6/8)

 🎓 Congratulations to Our High School Graduates!   (l to r: Zeb Merrill, Uriah Bracey, Kalyn Clark, Gabrielle Harris, Logan McDonald, Avery Carranza (missing)) We are so proud of each of our students who have completed this important chapter of their journey. Your hard work and determination have not gone unnoticed. As you step into this next phase of life, remember Proverbs 3:6 — “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” 🏅 JA Lewis Scholarship Winners We’re thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s JA Lewis Scholarship: 2nd Place ($500): Brooke Logan McDonald 1st Place ($1,000): Zebulin Merrill Congratulations to both recipients for their academic achievements and pursuit of excellence! 🎓 Honoring Our College Graduates We also celebrate our members who have earned college degrees this year: Undergraduate Degree Recipients – Your perseverance is commendable. We pray continued blessings on your future endeavors. 📚 Small ...

Baby Announcement, June Birthdays & Anniversaries, Youth Day (Pastoral Emphasis for 6/1)

 🌟 Recently Joined! We’re overjoyed to welcome several people who are joining our church family: Mickala Daley , age 18 – Joined and trusted Christ as her personal Savior.  Tiffany Keller – Joined on Christian Experience. Suzanne McNeil – Joined on Christian Experience. Let’s surround them with love, support, and prayer as they grow in their walk with Christ. 👶 Baby Announcement Congratulations to Isiah and Ashante Smith on the new addition to their family, Victory Azaiyah Smith! We celebrate with you and pray for health, joy, and continued blessings. 🎉 June Birthdays & Anniversaries This month, we rejoice with all those celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. 🎂 Birthdays “Happy Birthday” to all our June babies! 🎁 June Senior Birthday Surprise: A special shout-out to Sis. Linda Lyons —Happy Birthday! 💍 Anniversaries “Happy Anniversary” to these couples celebrating God’s faithfulness in their marriages: Isiah & Ashante Smith – 1 year on...