Youth Sunday, J. Allen Lewis Scholarship Winners, A Word to Our Graduates (Pastoral Emphasis for 6/14)

 

Today was Youth Sunday, where our children and youth were leading and participating in the worship service. Our children read scripture, prayed, sang, and ministered a fine arts piece. We heard a message from a youth speaker, Abigail Campbell, who encouraged us to work hard and leave the rest to God. 

Celebrating Our Graduates

We also recognized and celebrated all of our graduates. Whether you completed high school, earned a college degree, completed graduate studies, or achieved another educational milestone, we rejoice with you and thank God for your hard work and perseverance.

We are also grateful for the impact of the Delta Academy and GEM programs, which have been meeting at Mt. Zion. We appreciate the investment these programs make in developing and encouraging young people, and we thank Ms. Daniel and Ms. Owens for their leadership and partnership.

J. Allen Lewis Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations to this year's J. Allen Lewis Scholarship recipients:

• David Acheampong – $500 Scholarship Recipient

• Olivia Campbell – $1,000 Scholarship Recipient

We are proud of these young people and pray that God will continue to guide and bless them as they pursue their educational and vocational goals.

A Word to Our High School Graduates

Graduates, as you step into this new season of life, I want to encourage you with the words of the Apostle Paul to Timothy:

"Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12)

Graduating from high school is a significant milestone. You may sometimes feel that because you are young, your influence is limited or that others may overlook your contributions because of your age. Timothy likely faced similar challenges, yet Paul reminded him that his age did not determine his usefulness to God.

The same is true for you. You have a unique opportunity to shine for Christ right now.

Be an example:

• In speech – Let your words be truthful, gracious, and encouraging.

• In conduct – Live with integrity and consistency in your daily life.

• In love – Demonstrate Christlike compassion and selflessness toward others.

• In faith – Remain steadfast in what you have been taught. As you encounter new ideas, questions, and challenges—especially in college—don't abandon your faith. Bring your questions to trusted believers and continue seeking God's truth.

• In purity – Guard your character and your heart. Don't allow newfound freedoms to pull you away from the values and convictions that honor Christ.

Your character can be a powerful testimony to the transforming grace of God. Continue to pursue Christ faithfully, and He will use your life to impact others for His glory.

Welcoming New Members

We are excited to welcome two new members to the Mt. Zion family:

• Daionna Jones, who joined on Christian Experience

• Philip Garrison, who joined on Christian Experience

Please take a moment to greet them and help them feel at home within our church family.

Candidate for Baptism

We also rejoice that Arwilla McCary has come forward as a candidate for baptism. Please pray for Arwilla as she prepares to publicly profess her faith through baptism.

Vacation Bible School – Wonder Junction

Everyone is invited to our Vacation Bible School, Wonder Junction: "Marvel at Jesus, Live for His Glory," taking place June 24–28.

There will be something for the whole family, including:

• Classes for adults and children

• Engaging Bible lessons

• Games and activities

• Fellowship opportunities

• Dinner served each evening

Don't forget to wear your favorite western attire—boots, hats, bandanas, and more—as we journey through Wonder Junction together.

Function at the Junction Community Celebration

As part of our VBS week, we will host a special Function at the Junction Community Celebration on Saturday, June 27, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

This community event will feature:

• Food and fellowship

• A bounce house for children

• Music and games for adults

• Family-friendly activities

• An Old Mt. Zion T-Shirt Contest

Bring your oldest Mt. Zion T-shirt for a chance to win a prize!

We are welcoming the entire community, so please invite your friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers. Share the VBS registration information and help us spread the word.

As we celebrate accomplishments, welcome new members, and prepare for ministry opportunities ahead, let us continue growing together as disciples who love God, love one another, and make Christ known.