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Showing posts from August, 2025

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 ...