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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 given so much light and revelation about God and the freedom to pursue Him, this nation has turned its back on God and continues in moral decline. Therefore, God says that He will turn people over to a depraved mind to do what should not be done.

Romans 1:28-31: “And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless.”
 
We need a revival in the church and national repentance in the U.S. This is why the church must be on mission to spread the gospel and make disciples. Let us continue to pray for all children, parents, educators, and worshippers— that God would shield and sustain them in every school, church, place of learning, and gathering.
 

Music Ministry Recruitment

 


Mt. Zion Family, Do you love to sing? Play an instrument? Or maybe you’re gifted with technology and can serve with our Media/IT team? If so, we want YOU! We have several choirs you can be part of — our Gospel Choir, Male Choir, and Youth Choir — and we are always looking for new voices and musicians to join us. Don’t worry if you’re unsure; you can come sit in on a rehearsal and see what it’s all about. If you’re interested, please see any choir member, musician, or Media/IT team member for more information. Join us and be part of what God is doing through music and ministry here at Mt. Zion!
 

Ark Encounter Trip


The MTZ Singles will be hosting a trip to The Ark Encounter in Williamstown, KY July 27-31, 2026. In addition to the Ark Encounter, the trip will include the Creation Museum and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Mode of transportation is a bus. There are 50 seats available on the bus. All MTZ adults and children are welcome! See Gabriel Carr to sign up and discuss the payment options.
 

160th Church Anniversary

 
Don't forget that we'll be celebrating our 160th church anniversary on 10/18 at Ritter Park for a FREE community cookout filled with food, fun, and fellowship for all ages. This will be the last Sunday to purchase 160th anniversary t-shirts. Stop by the Special Events Table in the lobby after service to order yours. We asking everyone to register for the anniversary celebration and include a the total number of attendees including children.
 

Book Signing After Service

 
I want to give a HUGE, heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who came out to celebrate with me at my book launch party on Tuesday. It truly exceeded by expectations. I want to thank my “team” (Anita, Isaiah, Abigail along with Tina Wyche and her son, Kyle). For those who a reserved copy of my book but have not paid and picked it up yet, I will be signing copies after the sermon Q&A. And we have a few extra copies available for purchase for those who didn't register.
 

 

Happy Labor Day

Tomorrow is Labor Day. I pray you enjoy this holiday and take time to rest and be refreshed. As you celebrate, please remember to stay safe and take care of one another. Have a blessed Labor Day!

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