The LIU – March 2023

THE LIU

Celebrating 29 Years!

On March 1, 2023, Pastor and Mrs. Parker reached a milestone of being our longest serving Pastor and First Lady, providing 29 years of service. When asked if he had realized that he had reached this milestone, he said he wasn’t counting and that he was focusing on what God had called him to do in service to Him.

Since Pastor Parker’s first day as senior Pastor at Zion Hill Baptist Church, the church has felt a burst of energy and it has

not stopped. He has shown an ability to set and achieve objectives for our service and our spiritual lives. He has also energized us to keep doing more for the uplift of God in our service to others, in our homes, community and in our lives. It is befitting that God gave him the revelation that “Power Surge” should serve as a guiding principle for the year 2023. Maybe God was affirming the direction and course he has set for him through his 29 years of service at Zion

Hill and guiding him to prepare himself for many more years of service.

In these 29 years, Pastor Parker has increased membership to over 4800, established more than 50 community outreach ministries to serve the community, expanded our reach throughout the country, providing relief support to communities where there are major disasters, including storm relief for areas such as the Gulf

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(pronounced LEE-UU)

REAP ROLL CALL

New Members | Jan/Feb 2023

Sis. Aubree Caldwell

Bro. James Caldwell III

Sis. Alesia Carter

Sis. Carli Carter

Bro. Xavier Dawson

Bro. Shane Faison

Sis. Sharon Fisher

Sis. Lauren Frost

Sis. London Frost

Sis. Mary Haugabrook

Bro. Atvill Joseph Haymen

A Tremendous Start

Sis. Sanari Hendricks

Bro. Raeshodd Martin

Bro. Ronnie May

Sis. Jacqueline Powell

Bro. Cameron Romero-Williams

Sis. Robin Scott

Bro. Dontae Snow

Bro. Fritz Swint

Sis. Melissa Swint

Bro. Thomas Twyler

Sis. Pauline Ward

Bro. James Williams

Bro. Shepard Wood

CHURCH FAMILY

Acknowledgments | Jan/Feb 2023

Thank you for the $3,500 in support of the General Scholarship Fund. Your gift support Clark Atlanta University’s ability to provide a high quality, innovative, and globally competitive learning experience to students with exceptional promise. Thank you again for your support and partnership in our collective effort to re-envision the future of our university.

–Richard L. Lucas, Jr., PHD

Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Thank you for your generous donation to Hosea Feed the Hungry. Your gift of $2,238.52 was received on December 22, 2022. Your generosity will ensure everyone who reaches out to Hosea this Thanksgiving season will find spirit and hope all while eating a

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We have had a tremendous beginning to this year, 2023. For example, we have seen the recommencement of the in-person School of Love, Learning and Service (SOLLAS), which will occur every third Saturday of the month hereafter unless otherwise specified. At the February SOLLAS gathering, in collaboration with the Community Action Business Ministry (CAB) and as a part of our Stewardship Weekend, we offered 12 adult classes and four youth and children’s classes centered around the theme: “Financial Surge.” Therein we taught important lessons on managing and enhancing finances. Dr. Wendy Labat, a member of CAB, outstandingly led us in this effort.

On the fourth Sunday in February, the youth and children in the Church Family led us in celebrating Black History Month, recalling some of the marvelous aspects of our past in song, spoken word, dance, videography, and instrumental presentation. The Reverend Brenton Cox, our new Coordinator of Youth and Children Ministry, spearheaded a team of talented and willing volunteers to set forth an informative and inspiring service.

So far this year, we have had 25 new members to unite with the Zion Hill Family, approximately half of which were baptized. We welcome all of you with open arms and with best wishes for a wonderful journey with God and with the rest of us, your sisters and brothers.

To these and other indications of a good 2023 start we might add the hiring of new staff (which you can see in this and the January LIU), two financially promising months of revenue, the reopening of the gymnasium on Thursday evenings, and life-enriching activities in the Joy for Life Ministry (Monday-Thursday, 9 am to 1 pm). So many other ministries have reactivated their outreach efforts as we seek to continue operating in the character of Jesus the Christ as he sojourned on this earth. There is so much more on the horizon that we are convinced will demonstrate our love for God, one another, and others that we do not have the time name here. I urge you, therefore, to pay close attention to the Announcement and Reminders that come out every week, as well as to the informational considerations on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. Be energized, taught, and propelled by the Holy Spirit, and pray mightily that God will guide you to where you might serve with enthusiasm and conviction, and thereby become an active part of this 2023 “Power Surge.” n

—Pastor Parker

Celebrating 29 Years!

Coast, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Haiti, The Bahamas and Louisiana. He has expanded our reach across the globe, providing two meals a day, five days a week to students, teachers, residents, and farm workers in Folah Bong County, Liberia.

Through numerous developments, improvements, teachings and expansions, he has ensured that we as a church body live up to our motto, “Living to love and loving to serve.” To name a few, he has instilled in us the practice of tithing as priority and the Christian way of giving, strengthened our evangelism, trained our leadership, and increased our knowledge of the word of God through Bible Study. He has built and moved us into a beautiful new church home, enriched our church services and activities, and developed a vibrant Youth and Children’s ministry, a model and dynamic Rites of Passage Program, and innovative Christian Education and enrichment programs.

Thank You, Pastor Parker and Mrs. Parker, for 29 years of love and service. We thank God that He is with you and us as we continue to carry out our mission as servants of God. To God be the Glory! n

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—The History Committee

Youth and Children's Black History Month Program

On February 26th, 2023, Zion Hill Baptist Church hosted our electrifying Black History Month Program. This year’s program was curated by our new Youth Ministry Leader, Reverend Brenton Cox and the Zion Hill Youth and Children’s Ministry.

The program featured a moving congregational Hymn “Lift Every Voice and Sing” followed by special musical and dance tributes by the Azizi Children’s Choir and our Zion Hill Praise Team. Zion Hill’s “Kiroho” Spiritual Dance Ministry also performed Stand Up by Cynthia Erivo.

This year’s program also featured an intermedia showcase celebrating Black History and Georgia History set to Ray Charles Georgia on My Mind and an oral presentation by our Youth Ministry.

“Creating this special Black History tribute was extremely inspiring and to see our youth ministry come together to tell our story was touching. We all bonded as the program came together,” explained Cox.

Additional highlights from this year’s Black History Month Program included a performance of The Color Purple and a trumpet soloist by additional talented youth in our Youth Ministry. n

— Submitted by Sis. "Kandis" Knight

Use Your “Power Surge” for Service

Are you ready to be a part of a “Power Surge” for God in 2023? Zion Hill’s Leader, Pastor Aaron L. Parker, wants members to make a difference this year by making a commitment to the guiding principle of a “Power Surge” through Spirit-Filled worship, praise, and service. During the January 1, worship service, Pastor Parker emphasized that the notion of a Power Surge suggests “something extra, more intensified, (and) more forceful.” He expects Zion Hill members to not only talk about a “Power Surge, but experience it in our church, communities, and our families.

If you’re wondering how you can participate in Zion Hill’s “Power Surge,” consider Outreach. Every Ministry in Zion Hill reaches out to those in need. You may have a heart for serving the homeless, helping men and women in need of spiritual guidance or economic assistance from the church, feeding the hungry, assisting in shaping spiritually strong and faith-filled youth, helping to provide education to build economically strong communities, or

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nourishing meal. None of this could have been accomplished without the support of our donors. Your donation will be used to serve the people directly.

–Elisabeth Omilami Chief Executive Officer

Thank you for your recent donation. As always, we appreciate the generosity and ongoing commitment of Zion Hill Baptist Church to Sadie G. Mays Health & Rehabilitation Center Your donation will help us to provide needed upgrades and renovations to our facility.

–Beth Laxton, MS Executive Director

Thank you for your support of Concerns, Inc. Your extremely generous donation will benefit our program for the homeless. You can be sure that your commitment to our organization allows us to successfully assist Atlanta’s most underserved individuals and families.

–James A. Milner, II Executive Director

It’s moments like these that remind me of how blessed I am to belong to such a

serving others through prayer. Many opportunities for service exist.

If you don’t have a college degree, master’s, or doctorate degree or even a high school diploma, you absolutely don’t need any of them. All that God wants is your willing heart for service empowered by your experiencing a Power Surge that leads you to serve. Every member of the Body of Christ has a role to play regardless of their roles, ages, or stages in life. If you’re not sure about where or how you can fit into God’s plan, read 1 Corinthians 12:4-30. Every member of Zion Hill has an assignment…just ask God where He has equipped you to serve. Remember, when you think about service at Zion Hill, also remember the Church Motto of “Living to Love and Loving to Serve.”

How will it benefit you? You will experience an even greater Power Surge when a homeless man or woman comes to Christ because they felt your faith, love, and support, which brought them new hopes for the future. Maybe your guiding hand and loving support

will help parents to lead children away from gangs or other negative influences and into a path toward hope and future success. You may experience a greater “Power Surge” when you spend time with seniors living in a rehabilitation or nursing facility and experience their gratitude and joy for your taking the time to worship, sing and pray for and with them.

How can you learn about the many roles for service at Zion Hill? Ask any Deacon, ministry leader or visit the Church office to learn of your opportunities to serve others. If you need a reminder of what the Word says about whom you should serve and that your service should be without partiality, read James 2. The same chapter tells you about authentic faith and what it means.

God wants more than your tithes and offerings. He also wants your hands, feet, and voices to serve His people. Use your Power Surge through committed service to others. n

loving church family. I am so grateful for the generous gift of love. Staying on the Rock!

–Deacon Tantalous Smith

Thanks for the lovely sympathy cards sent by Zion Hill and the various church organizations. Your thoughtfulness is truly appreciated. God bless you.

–Michele Harp

A heart felt gratitude to Rev. Parker and the church family for your kindness and gratitude to our church family. The entire Zion Hill Church community was so kind and gracious in every area. Pastor Parker himself was there serving us. What an example of humility.

Thanks so much for the demonstration of love to the Berean Bible Baptist Church Family.

Elder Don Ellis Berean Bible Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA

For all the kindness you have shown, we thank you very much. For sympathy in sorrowing days, for friendships healing touch, with gratitude our hearts are full. Though words cannot convey the tender

— Submitted by Sis. Felecia Church The Outreach

Ministry Team

thoughts and thankfulness we hold for you today.

The family of Brother Darryl Butler Sr.

Thank you Zion Hill Family, knowing people nice as you give life a brighter touch, and so, to each and all of you thanks very, very much!

Love the Patton Family Minnie & Willie

I want to sincerely thank you for all your kindness and support. You are a bright light who shines and gives hope to our community! Please accept our deepest gratitude for your generosity and for standing with us as we make a difference for vulnerable youth.

Jennifer Swain, Executive Director, YouthSpark

Gratefully acknowledging and thanking you for your kind expression of sympathy. We are eternally grateful for all the love shown through cards, food, fits, sympathy gifts, visits and calls. You continued love and God’s grace and mercies will help to sustain us during this season of grief.

Love and Blessings, Juanita Bynum, Wanda and Family

ZION HILL STAFF IS SURGING FORWARD

Bro. John Brown has been promoted to Facility Manager and will continue to support the ministry goals of Zion Hill by ensuring the optimal functioning, maintenance, and custodial care of all building systems and grounds, which includes the building architecture as well as the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, fire/life safety and elevator systems. Now serving as the supervisor for Zion Hill Facilities team, Bro. Brown has served on the team since 2015 and brings a wealth of knowledge and God-given gifts and talents to his new role. Bro. Brown is married to Veda. Bro. John can be reached at 404-844-4277, office or via email at jbrown@zionhill.org

Reverend Brenton Cox has joined the Zion Hill staff as our Youth and Children’s Minister. In supporting the ministry goals of Zion Hill Baptist Church as this ministry’s director, Reverend Cox will provide spiritual, relational, organizational, educational and administrative leadership for the Youth and Children’s Ministry. As a former pastor and a current teacher in the Atlanta Public School system, Reverend Cox has been sent on assignment by the Lord well-equipped for the work. He is married to Kristiana and they have two children, Cameron and Landon. While Reverend Cox and his family are well-known at Zion Hill for their vocal talents, we look forward to his leadership, guidance and Christian instruction of our young people. Reverend Cox can be reached at 404-844-4276, office, or 678-643-6867, mobile or via email at bcox@zionhill.org.

Joining our Facilities team, Bro. Fred Freeman, III is serving in the capacity of our Maintenance Worker II, a maintenance lead position. With more than a decade of maintenance experience, Bro. Freeman will support the ministry goals of Zion Hill Baptist Church through the maintenance of our church facilities by performing routine repairs and general upkeep of the facilities, buildings, and equipment. Bro. Fred is a member of Freedom Holy Church of God in Christ in Atlanta, GA, and the father of three sons, Fred IV, Favion and Zyon. We welcome Bro. Fred wholeheartedly to our Zion Hill family. He can be reached at ffreeman@ zionhill.org.

Zion Hill welcomes Sis. Candace “Kandis” Knight as our new Communications Coordinator. In her new role in supporting the ministry goals of the church, Sis. Knight is responsible for the development and implementation of Zion Hill’s communication strategies and enhancing the church’s public image. As a seasoned Marketing Executive and Branding, PR, Social Media and Content Management Professional, Sis. Knight is well prepared to serve in the vineyard at Zion Hill. Sis. Knight is a member of Passion City Church in Atlanta and she has one son, Ezra. We enthusiastically welcome Sis. Knight to our Zion Hill family. She can be reached at kknight@zionhill.org.

Let’s congratulate our staff members on their new roles.

Bro. John Brown

Reverend Brenton Cox

Bro. Fred Freeman, III

Sis. “Kandis” Knight

Kiroho Dance Ministry

Our Youth and Children’s Dance Ministry has decided, with approval, to change its name to Kiroho (key-rō-hō) Dance Ministry. The name change was selected to aid in continual incorporation of African culture within Zion Hill Baptist Church. The word Kiroho comes from the Swahili language meaning “Spiritual”. We believe this name fits this ministry well as they uplift, encourage, and engage the spirits of the congregation through every performance. They depict grace and enjoyment has they help to usher in the Holy Spirit during any service or program. Over the years, this ministry has been blessed with the talent, love, and dedication of some dynamic Dance Directors such as Arimathea Bloodworth and Heather Denson. Following their leadership, the current Dance Director is Sis. Michelle Phalo, who has been serving in this role since August 2015. Having been a former member of this ministry, Sis. Phalo is a former and hopes to continue to instill confidence, love, and a commitment to the gift of

dance to the generations to come.

As the year began, our Kiroho Dance Ministry, were starting to prepare for their Black History program performance, here at Zion Hill. Mid-way through January, they were recommended by a church member to a committee member of the Samuel H. Johnson SSSP Foundation, Inc. to perform at the Hillside Presbyterian Church’s Black History program. On February 4, 2023, our Kiroho Dance Ministry (teenage group) ventured to Decatur, GA and gave a wonderful performance at this event to a beautiful rendition of Amazing Grace by

Boys II Men. The committee and the audience applauded and stated their enjoyment of the performance. Then on February 26, 2023, our Kiroho Dance Ministry gave a moving and engaging performance during our very own Black History Program to Stand Up by Cynthia Erivo from the movie Harriet. The congregation actively participated when gestured to do so, but surely felt the weight and message of the song throughout the entire performance. n

SATURDAY MAY 6, 2023

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM ZION

–Submitted by Sis. Michelle Phalo Kiroho Dance Ministry

"A POWER SURGE BRUNCH" WITH SIS AND MOTHER'S MINISTRIES

Outreach Ministry Celebration Kickoff

March 19, at 9:30 a.m.

The celebration will focus on the following Scripture:

“At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem in a ministry to the saints; for Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to share their resources with the poor among the saints at Jerusalem.”

— Romans: 15:25-26 (NRSV)

The Zion Hill motto is Living to Love and Loving to Serve, and members and friends will celebrate that commitment to love and service during the Sunday, March 19, 2023 worship service. The commitment to outreach and the church motto will continue on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 with Fasting, Prayer and Praise from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Bible for Life Bible Study beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Theme of the Outreach Ministry celebration is “A Surge of Service.”

The annual celebration places the emphasis on serving Christ by serving others. The guest speaker for the cele-

SOLLAS BLAST A Heralded Return

bration will be the Reverend Dr. Ralph Basui Watkins, MFA, DMin, PhD, a son of Zion Hill who is also known as “The scholar with a camera.”

Dr. Watkins is the Peachtree Professor of Evangelism and Church Growth at Columbia Seminary. According to Dr. Watkins, “His work focuses on building bridges between young adults and the church in order to develop future leaders for the twenty-first century church who work for justice.” To his credit Dr. Watkins has authored over 250 publications and presentations, two of which include “The Future of the African American Church, co-authored with Justin West,” and “Hip-Hop Redemption: Finding God in the Rhythm and the Rhyme.”

Join Zion Hill in person or virtually for the Sunday worship Service, and the Prayer, Fasting, and Praise the following Wednesday. Experience “A Surge for Service! n

able to love like Christ, serve like Christ, and witness for Christ.”

SOLLAS BLAST learning opportunities occur every third Saturday of each month. A continental breakfast and fellowship period take place from 9am to 10am. Classes are conducted from 10am to 11:30am. SOLLAS BLASTs are a family affair! Please gather your family together and come out and join us on Saturday, March 18, 2023. The focus of February’s SOLLAS BLAST classes will be Financial Stewardship.

Zion Hill Baptist Church (ZHBC) is pleased to announce the long awaited return of the School of Love, Learning and Service (SOLLAS) BLAST for in person classes. January 21, 2023 marked the heralded return of SOLLAS in person learning after a multi-year hiatus due to COVID 19. Many former and some new students were in attendance. Shout out to the Culinary Ministry who welcomed our students back with a breakfast that was far from being continental!!

Pastor Parker led a combined class for adults which focused on ZHBC’s 2023 theme: POWER SURGE. Individual Children and Youth classes were held for ages two (2) through eighteen (18). Those classes also focused on ZHBC’s POWER SURGE theme.

The mission of SOLLAS is: “To seek to lead children, youth and adults to become aware of and grow in the understanding of the will of GOD as HE revealed Himself in JESUS; with this knowledge they will be

SOLLAS has a new Superintendent (Bro. Michael Bazemore) and Assistant Superintendent (Bro. Kelwin Trawick) this year. SOLLAS also has a new Advocate position which is held by Sister Cheryl Thompson Williams. The only one we are missing now is YOU!

Please make a commitment to come out and support our Christian Education efforts here at ZHBC by regularly attending monthly SOLLAS BLASTs and other Bible Studies offered weekly.

GOD BLESS!! n

—

Submitted by Bro.

Michael Bazemore SOLLAS Superintendent

Stewardship Weekend Recap

On February 18th & 19th, 2023, Zion Hill Baptist Church hosted our 2023 Stewardship weekend with the timely theme “Financial Surge” in conjunction with Pastor Parker’s “Power Surge” message.

Post pandemic, Pastor Parker and Dr. Wendy Labat came together with a need to empower our Church family. Dr. Labat curated an amazing panel of experts featuring leaders in many different financial sectors.

“Our expert speakers provided information, tools and resources to empower attendees to get ready to receive their Financial Surges as God rains blessings in due season. Some of the topics covered included credit management, investments, tax strategies, personal/business finances, legal foundation for business, start/build a business, senior services, Medicare, Social Security, proper protection, estate and pre-need planning. These areas are vital for financial success,” explained Dr. Labat.

Following the weekend, positive feedback streamed in with most attendees rating what they learned as “game changing” and desiring longer sessions for more indepth learning.

“Both of my speakers (Jasmine Mathis and Wakenda Flynt) said it is possible to become a home owner in the most chaotic of times we’re experiencing today. What stuck out the most was how passionate and supportive they are in helping people to achieve a goal that otherwise might have seemed unobtainable prior to their seminar,” explained Taliza McQueen, Financial Surge attendee.

In addition to the sessions, attendees were treated to a home-cooked breakfast from our Culinary Ministry and tons of networking, prayer and fellowship.

Other attendees had the following comments to share about the things they learned:

“She (Alicia Lipscomb) gave some good information on using the new Social Security website. This was useful as things are always changing. Also, you may be planning not to be in a nursing home, but what you do to plan to make sure that doesn’t happen is key” –Stacy L. Grooms

“When paying off debt try staying away from making minimum payments”

–Erin Anderson

“I learned 1. I don’t have to have an 850 credit score 2. Car credit score range from 250 to 900” –Anita Brewer Denson

“Knowing the differences between debt and expenses” –Tim Frost

“Grants and assistance are available (for home buying)” –Rhashunda Bernard

“Home buying is definitely within reach and definitely not as daunting as I believed before” –Tiffani Douglas

“Estate Planning is not just about planning for death” –Gwen Daniel

“Having a Trust avoids probate and there are 67 steps in preparing for burial”

–Nancye Brazil

“Allow your money to make money for you!” –Anonymous

“I learned about the threats to your estate and how to guard against them and the five financial disasters and how to plan for them.” –Marshaleen King n

— Submitted by Sis. "Kandis" Knight

What Can Medicare Do for You?

drug coverage through Medicare approved private insurance companies at a separate cost to you.

Medigap provides services for a monthly fee and works only with original Medicare.

If you are currently under Medicare, did you know that Medicare covers preventive care through annual wellness visits and offers cognitive assessments for brain health and detection of potential dementia?

If you’re 65 and over, you may already know the basics of Medicare and the health benefits provided to seniors who sign up once they reach the age to qualify. If you’re under 65, you may be unaware of what is available to you if you have a disability or if you’re suffering from end stage renal failure or ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) or another incapacitating disability.

Did you know that if you have been diagnosed with renal failure or ALS, you automatically qualify for Medicare? Those were just a couple of the many valuable facts provided by Christine Williams, a representative of the Georgia Department of Aging. Williams shared the information during one of several workshops provided during the Saturday portion of the Stewardship weekend.

Every year beginning October 15-December 7, Medicare provides Open Enrollment for seniors who have reached the qualifying age or received a disability diagnosis. Medicare provides the following; however, refer to the Medicare handbook that is disseminated annually for details concerning services and benefits.

Part A covers hospitalizations.

Part B provides medical coverage at a cost. Some employers offer it as a part of their benefits; however, if you decide to drop your employer plan, you cannot return to the plan if you change your mind.

Part C known as Medicare Advantage offers services not provided by traditional Medicare such as dental, vision, hearing, fitness and prescription drugs.

Part D offers stand-alone prescription-

Are you having trouble paying for prescriptions or other health services? If you or a family member needs financial assistance, check the Medicare handbook, or contact the state for counseling or information that may help you to determine if you qualify for funds to help you to cover needs such as prescription drug costs. You must meet income and asset requirements for help. Help may also be available through the Extra Help Program which is provided through Social Security. Again, income and asset guidelines must be met to determine your eligibility.

Before closing her presentation, Williams warned participants to beware of potential scammers that call offering services or pretending to be official government agents while requesting your private information or demanding money. n —Submitted

by Sis. Felicia Church

Williams provided contact information for the following Georgia agencies for more information about available services for families and seniors:

Georgia SHIP

1-866-552-4464 Extension 4

(State Health Insurance Assistance Program) Adult Protective Services

1-866-552-4464 Extension 3

Long Term Care Ombudsman

1-866-552-4464 Extension 5

Public Guardianship Office (PGO)

1-866-552-4464 Extension 7

Aging & Disability Connection

1-866-552-4464 Extension 2

n (ADRC/No Wrong Door (NWD)

n Home and Community Based Services

n Senior Community Services Employment Program

Family and Children Services

1-866-552-4464 Extension 1

n Child Support Services

You can find all of the above information and more by reviewing your Medicare Handbook or by visiting the Medicare website at https://www.medicare.gov or by calling Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS

Zion Hill Legal Ministry: Attention All Legal/Law Enforcement Professionals! The Zion Hill Legal Ministry will meet on Sunday, March 12, 2023, in the Sanctuary immediately following worship service. If you are a practicing or retired lawyer, law librarian, law student, paralegal, legal secretary, bailiff, court officer or other law enforcement personnel, you are invited to join in this initial meeting on March 12. The Legal Ministry is open to anyone who is interested in serving the ZHBC congregation through application and/or education of law.

***

Outreach Fasting, Prayer and Praise and Study has been changed from Wednesday, March 15th to Wednesday, March 22nd, with Fasting from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM and Bible for Life Bible Study beginning at 7:00 PM. Please join us in-person or virtually for Bible for Life.

***

Youth and Children's Easter Program: Parents, if you are interested in your child participating in the Youth and Children's Easter Program, please sign-up using the

google doc link. You may also contact the church office at zhbc@zionhill.org or Rev. Brenton Cox at bcox@zionhill org. The 2023 Easter Program will be held on Sunday, April 9th, 2023 at 8:30am. The deadline to sign up is Sunday March 12, 2023.

click here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/ e/1FAIpQLSckQY5-QlsfRB2n3tErnwfE7Eo2b5o26gEcDP6 7RzTFE9q6tA/viewform?usp=sf_link

***

Youth Usher Ministry Recruitment: All Zion Hill Youth ages 11 – 18, the Youth Usher Ministry needs you!

Parents, if your youth is interested in signing up for the Youth Usher Ministry, please sign up using the below google doc link. You may also contact the church office at 404-691-8025 or zhbc@zionhill.org or you may contact Rev. Brenton Cox at bcox@zionhill.org.

click here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIp QLSez5pONQgCvBWp8dKsloCy1e_dNWvqlORn94oDpp1c7KPHzA/viewform?usp=sf_link

“Colon Cancer: Squash the stigma and promote screening”

tion and early detection at the American Cancer Society. "This disease is ravaging the Black community, and it is as important as ever that everyone has access to and is receiving the recommended screenings. Even during the coronavirus pandemic, necessary screening tests remain available to prevent the disease or find it at an early, more treatable stage."

The passing of Chadwick Boseman, the talented actor best known for his portrayal of the superhero Black Panther, at the age of 43 came as a surprise and shock to many. For a seemingly healthy, relatively young man to die from colorectal cancer seems almost incomprehensible.

Here at Zion Hill, we have had our own incidences of colon cancer. One of them is young Shereda Seay, who succumbed to colon cancer at only age 29. Her mother Rashanja is spearheading an effort to make more people aware of the condition. Her website is changeforblackmommy.com.

One survivor of colon cancer is our own Kim Mobley who spoke at the SiS Ministry and Health Ministry Weekend of Hope last fall. Sis. Kim reminds us “Cancer changes your perspective. Nevertheless, you still get to choose whether it will be for better or for worse. Choose positivity.”

While colorectal cancer isn’t as common in people under the age of 50 as it is in older people, it’s not as uncommon as many people might think. In 2020, about 12% of colorectal cancers – about 18,000 cases –will be diagnosed in people under the age of 50 in the US. What’s more, while rates of colorectal cancer have been falling in older

age groups in recent years, they’ve actually been rising among younger people.

Risk is higher in African Americans Colorectal cancer also disproportionately affects the Black community, where the rates are the highest of any racial/ethnic group in the US. African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups.

The reasons for the differences are complex, but they largely reflect differences in risk factors and in health care access, both of which are related to socioeconomic status.

In fact, African Americans are disproportionately burdened by cancer in general. We often experience greater obstacles to cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survival, including systemic racial disparities that are complex and go beyond the obvious connection to cancer. These obstacles can include lower paying jobs and lack of (or less comprehensive) health insurance, lack of access to healthy and affordable foods, lower--quality education and housing, and unsafe environments.

"Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the country," said Durado Brooks, M.D., Vice President of preven-

While the recommendation of the American Cancer Society states screening should begin at age 45, the incidence in younger black Americans mandates that we should begin to notice symptoms and request screening tests earlier if any of these symptoms are present. According to the Mayo Clinic and other sources, the most common symptoms are:

n A persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool

n Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool

n Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain

n A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely.

n Weakness or fatigue

n Unexplained weight loss

Many people with colon cancer experience no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. When symptoms appear, they'll likely vary, depending on the cancer's size and location in your large intestine.

When to see a doctor

If you notice any persistent symptoms that worry you, make an appointment with your doctor.

Zion Hill, as we consider maximizing our healthy life spans, prevention or early treatment of colon cancer should be high on our list.

—Submitted by Jettie Burnett, MD Vice-President/Zion Hill Health Ministry

SOURCES: American Cancer Society and Mayo Clinic Health Newsletter

—An interview with Sis. Kim Mobley

Mother's Ministry Supports the NBC Mid-Winter Conference

Mother Jeri Griffin Continues Her Work as the General Missionary Baptist Convention 5th District Women’s President

Mother Jeri Griffin recently attended the January 10-11, 2023, National Baptist Convention (NBC) Mid-Winter Board Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. She reports that National President Jerry Young provided his plan for 2023. Mother Jeri also enthusiastically described the sessions as “amazing” and featured “wonderful” speakers.

Mother Jeri attended one of several classes offered to leaders that attended the Board Meeting. Her choice was Discipleship in a Post Pandemic Church, which urged participants ‘to get an understanding of their priorities, never take God for granted, listen to your heart, always remember that to be a good leader, you must be a good follower, and to always put God first in all that you do.”

Upcoming Meeting dates provided by Mother Jeri include:

n General Missionary Baptist Convention Session – February 20-22, 2023, in Columbus, GA

n National Baptist Convention Congress of Christian Education – June 2023, in Louisville, KY

n National Baptist Convention – September 2023 (Location to be announced)

Although other obligations prevented Mother Jeri from attending the entire conference; she expressed her appreciation to Zion Hill for providing the opportunity for her participation.

In addition to attending the NBC MidWinter Board Conference, Mother Jeri presided over the Saturday, January 7, 2023, General Missionary Baptist Convention 5th District Women’s Meeting. During the meeting Mother

Jeri welcomed the presence of members of the Zion Hill Mother’s Ministry led by Mother Beverly McCray and followed the welcome with the song “I Made Up My Mind to Serve the Lord.”

Zion Hill’s SIS (Sisters in Sync) Ministry Leader SISter Sandi’ Abbo followed with a prayer focusing on Matthew 27:55 that described the presence of the women following Jesus and providing for him. SISter Abbo asked God to take control of the session and to fill the spirits, minds and bodies of the women attending with His will and His “Power Surge” as each moved forward in the many ministries that He has set forth in His will.

Before Mother Anna Wright began her message, the 5th District president of the General Missionary Baptist Convention Dr. Eddie Bright declared the new year as a blessing for the group to be present in 2023 when so

ZION HILL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

many were “called home” in 2022. He described it as proof that God is intentional in His plan and call for service because there is work for all to do.

Mother Anna began her inspirational message with two questions:

n Why be ordinary when you can be extraordinary by living God’s plan for your life?

n Do you have a plan for your life?

She referred to Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Mother Anna warned that “without a plan for your life, life just happens.” Before making that plan, she urged everyone to first “consult God.” Why? She quoted Proverbs 21:5. “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” She also used Proverbs 16:3 as an example of the importance of God’s plan. “Commit to the Lord, whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.

Mother Anna urged everyone to remember the following:

n God is a great mathematician—and a great multiplier.

n God is a planner! He never does anything by accident.

n God’s plan is to ultimately bring us blessings.

n His plan is perfect, and when we pray, he often leads us to it in awesome supernatural ways.

n Someone once said that coincidences are God’s way of remaining anonymous.

n The Word of the Lord endures forever!

—Submitted by Sis. Felicia Church Mother's Ministry

Interested candidates may contact zhbc@zionhill.org for the full job description and/or send a current resume to employment@zionhill.org. No phone calls, please.

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/OFFICE MANAGER

(Full-time): The Executive Assistant/Office Manager will support the ministry goals of ZHBC through efficient operations of the church office and administrative support of the Pastor, Administration Minister and Church Leadership. S/he will manage the office staff and contractors responsible for Office support. The ideal candidate is organized, patient, flexible, resourceful, tech savvy, has good written and oral communication skills and a strong commitment to excellence.

GENERAL LABORER

(Part-time): The General Laborer will support the ministry goals of Zion Hill Baptist Church by carrying out general facility related work that supports the ministries of Zion Hill Baptist Church. This part-time Facilities staff member assists the team with general manual labor tasks, including loading, unloading, lifting, and moving materials. The person holding this position performs a variety of facility and maintenance related tasks as needed. No experience necessary.

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Manage all volunteers

Review volunteer applications

Onboard new volunteers

VOLUNTEER INTAKE DOCUMENT REVIEWER

Assist program coordinator with reviewing applications

Assist program coordinator with communicating with clients

Answer client questions regarding their application and status

VOLUNTEER GRANT WRITER

Take the initiative to research prospective grant opportunities

Assist Executive Director with completing federal, state, and local grant applications with required supporting documentation and paperwork

VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISING AND EVENT PLANNER

Oversee fundraising efforts

Manage the organization’s donor database to track contributions

Contribute creative ideas for new fundraising opportunities

VOLUNTEER SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Create content for our social media platforms

Engage on social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Research relevant topics for blog posts, newsletters, and social media campaigns

Develop an audience, voice, and unique social strategy across all platforms

MARCH CHURCH CALENDAR

We want YOU to contribute!

If your ministry has a virtual activity or news that you want mentioned, you can send an email to zhbc@zionhill.org. We welcome all ministry contributions: writing, story ideas, suggestions, digital photographs, artwork, letters, responses to our columns, reviews, etc. and look forward to hearing from you.

All material is subject to approval and editing. ALL contributions must be submitted by the second Wednesday of each month. The LIU will be distributed once a month. If you do not see your contribution in the current issue, it will appear in upcoming issues.

CORRECTIONS

We attempt to be accurate and balanced. We apologize for any errors that occur and when notified we will print appropriate corrections.

The LIU is a publication of

Join

“Power Surge”

BIBLE for LIFE

(BFL) bible study series

In-Person & Virtual

Remember to wear your mask and socially distance. BFL will still be offered via our live streaming platforms as well.

Boxcast:

https://boxcast.tv/channel/glwvkeoykzdo7l8oqae

Facebook:

@zhbcatl, https://www.facebook.com/zhbcatl/

6175 Campbellton Road, South Fulton/Atlanta, GA 30331

Rev. Aaron L. Parker, PhD, Pastor

404-691-8025 • www.zionhill.org • email: zhbc@zionhill.org

YouTube:

ZHBCATL zionhill https://www.youtube.com/zhbcatlzionhill

Available after streaming as recordings.