The LIU – March 2024

The Youth & Children's Ministry at Our Zion Hill Church Stirred Things Up!

Last Sunday, they presented an engaging and lively African American History Program. Their take on our church theme, "Shake It Up," was "Disruption: Igniting the Spark for Change." The pioneers and

icons of Black History instigated a divine disruption that sparked a movement for change. Sis. Elisa Dixon, the program coordinator, led the presentation.

The program began with Choral Readers reciting a Call to Worship based on the theme scripture. The Azizi Children's

(pronounced

Choir, under the leadership of Sister Tarla Atwell, blessed us with a rendition of the gospel classic 'Shabach' by the Soul Children of Chicago and Spirituals.

The youth shared reflections with the congregation through a recorded video

(continued on page 3)

African American History Program

When they couldn't locate them, Jason and several siblings were brought before the city authorities, with shouts of, "These individuals who have been causing turmoil have arrived here as well," (Act 17:6).

REAP ROLL CALL

New Members | February 2024

Jasmine Moore

Taylor Moore

Felicia Lynn

Cynthia Padgett

Alexis Parham

John Parham

Austin Patterson

Blake Patterson

Keven Patterson

Petrona Sayles

Eula Walden

The March to the Resurrection

As many of us already know, this year, 2024, Resurrection Sunday occurs on March 31st, a little earlier than usual. We further understand that this variation in date for the highest of the Christian holy days happens because we observe it on the first Sunday following the first full moon that appears after the Spring or Vernal Equinox – one of two times during the year that the sun appears directly over the equator, rendering daylight and nighttime as equal in length. This year, the Spring Equinox will take place on March 19th, 11:06 pm; the next full moon after that date is March 25th, which is a Monday. Hence, we celebrate Resurrection Sunday (or Easter) on the very next Sunday, which is the 31st.

The day that we recognize the resurrection of our Lord, therefore, is not so much a historical practice as it is a symbolic event, for all of the determiners for this celebration traditionally point to new life and, thus, new hope for all. Sunday, of course, is the beginning of a new week; the full moon is an ancient symbol of completeness, regeneration, the culmination of hard work, and new birth, as it is often associated with the woman and her monthly cycle. We hardly need to mention what the spring season represents since we know it indicates and actually embodies new life.

All of these symbols are captured in the proclaimed resurrection of Jesus, who, through this act, brings hope to all who struggle, suffer, and die. Please join with the rest of the Church Family to celebrate and encourage the newness and hope that Easter brings:

Palm Sunday – Zion Hill – March 24th – 9:30 am

Good Friday – Mt. Vernon Baptist Church (815 Lynhurst Drive, Atlanta)

– March 29th – 12:00 pm

Resurrection Sunday – Zion Hill – March 31st

7:00 am Worship

8:30 am Youth and Children’s Program

9:30 am Worship

We look forward to a grand, glorious, and uplifting celebration. n

CHURCH FAMILY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

February 2024

Bereavement Thank You cards from:

n Family of Sister Bernice Jennings

n Family of Charles Johnson, Sister Leticia J. Francis

ZHBC Thank You card from:

n Sister Vivian Adams and Family

—Pastor Parker

African American History Program (continued from page 1) called, "The Rock Report," highlighting the importance of Carter G. Woodson, the Father of Black History Month.

Sis. Ramona Benson and a group of young members led a rendition of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' using American Sign Language, truly igniting the spark for change.

As the service progressed, the Kiroho Dance Ministry performed 'Wade in the Water.'

Rev. Brenton Cox interrupted the service, leading the hymn 'Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah/Trust In the Lord,' with the congregation and Dr. Parker joining in. Generation 8 inspired the congregation with Kirk Franklin's 'My Life Is In Your Hands.'

A key part of the program was hearing from three speakers who shared their perspectives on sparking change and challenged us to ignite change ourselves.

A special presentation, 'Sounds of Sankofa,' focused on a significant disruptor in history, Fannie Lou Hammer. This video tribute showcased her life, struggles, and honored her legacy. "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired."

(continued on page 4)

African American History Program (continued from page 3)

The program concluded with a moving performance by the young adult dance team to the song 'Strange Fruit.'

The event was a mix of critical thinking, emotions, laughter, poetry, song, and a sense of God's presence. We are all called to be positive disruptors for change.

"These individuals, disruptors, change-makers, renegades, rebels, revolutionaries, those who have been turning the world upside down, who have influenced us to think, act, hope, serve, and love differently, are here." -

Elisa Dixon.

n

– Rev. Brenton W. Cox, director Youth and Children's Ministry

Doorkeepers of the House

To Zion Hill Baptist Church members, the Senior Usher Board members are honored to introduce our ministry to this month's LIU audience.

We are excited to share some history, highlight some of our members, and bring awareness to our outreach ministry.

The first Zion Hill Usher Board was established by Rev. Floyd, who served from 1899 to 1916. The first women serving as ushers were called Usherettes. The women of Zion Hill continue to be the backbone of this body of Christ. Today, the Senior Usher Board is proud to continue the legacy of those members who came before us.

In keeping with our mission to serve our Zion Hill guests and family, we pay homage to those shoulders we stand on. We pride ourselves in assisting with creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that promotes high praise and worship to our Lord.

We are a multi-generational team hailing from diverse backgrounds, serving the Zion Hill community and the global community. Our members have served the Zion Hill family for decades. Members such as Sis. Clara Craig and Sis. Louise Lockhart has served Zion Hill and its

"For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than live in the tents of wickedness."

(Psalm 84:10 NRSV)

members for over 50 years. We attempt to mirror their service and dedication to serving God's children.

In addition to serving the Zion Hill family, we also serve our community. Our primary outreach is Southwest Christian Care, a not-for-profit organization serving the Metropolitan Atlanta area. In Union City, Georgia, Southwest Christian Care provides respite care for physically challenged children. This Christian haven offers a much-needed break for the caretakers of these wonderful children. SWCC and its staff offer the children a warm, caring, and safe environment. Every third Saturday of each month, you will find the Zion Hill Senior Usher Board at the Southwest Christian Care Center supporting the children and staff.

In recent years, we have also supported the Empty Stocking Fund. The Empty Stocking Fund provides toys and gifts during the holiday season and other

school supplies, such as back to school. We assist the Empty Stocking Fund team with filling Christmas lists, picking orders, and delivering orders to the recipients' cars. This is a demanding but satisfying endeavor, knowing the children will have something under the tree Christmas morning and the parents will have some financial relief.

To "Shake it Up" in 2024, we have set goals to grow our membership and extend our outreach.

We always work to improve our ministry and service to our guests and members. If you are looking for a ministry to join, don't hesitate to get in touch with any of our members. We would love to discuss our ministry, members, and outreach. The Senior Usher board serves every first Sunday of the month.

As always, we are "Living to Love and Loving to serve." n

–Zion Hill Senior Usher Ministry

Traditional School of Love, Learning, and Service (SOLLAS) Bible class

Did you know Zion Hill offers a weekly Bible study class on Wednesday at noon? Participating in these engaging and inspiring lessons is a great way to foster a deeper understanding of Biblical Principles and grow our knowledge of God’s will for each of us. Join us each Wednesday at noon for our weekly Traditional School of Love, Learning, and Service (SOLLAS) Bible class. The mission of SOLLAS is “To seek to lead children, youth, and adults to become aware of the will of God as He revealed Himself in Jesus; with this knowledge, they will be able to love like Christ, serve like Christ, and witness for Christ.”

We are an enthusiastic group that is striving to grow in the study of God’s Holy Word! We seek ways to make real-life applications to the weekly Bible stories. This study year, we are focusing on the entire Bible. We are using more of a chronological Bible storying approach, showing how it ties in with God’s grand story as God is revealed to each of us in more profound ways through Christ.

Three main goals that members of the Traditional SOLLAS class have developed:

We endeavor to come together in faith and prayer.

We strive to build a foundation for a future filled with hope and purpose.

We are working to demonstrate how faith and prayer can shape our lives and those within our beloved community.

Sister Dorinda Hawkins has been a faithful member of the Traditional SOLLAS class since August 2021. Sister Hawkins joined Zion Hill Baptist Church during the COVID pandemic, and she feels that participating in the Traditional SOLLAS class has been integral in helping her foster connections with other church members. Sister Hawkins resides in St. Louis, Missouri, and can participate in weekly Bible study via Zoom.

Sister Hawkins feels that the SOLLAS Bible study lessons have significantly impacted her overall understanding of the Bible.

In addition, the positive interactions and relationship building fostered by the class have resulted in the SOLLAS Traditional class being one of the highlights of Sister Hawkins’ week. She has grown in understanding God and God’s will for her life.

In addition to growing in faith and prayer, class members look forward to coming together each week for fellowship. There are opportunities for us to support and encourage each other through sharing testimonies, praise reports, and thankful thoughts. When we come together and share, we can offer sympathy and comfort. We also come together in times of joy and celebration!

We would love to have you join us on Wednesdays at noon in Room 109 of the Love Center or join us virtually via Zoom. An updated message with the meeting link information is sent weekly through the Zion Hill Weekly Reminders. Please join us as we soar higher in studying God’s Word! n

–Sis. Nealean Austin & Dea. Reda Pierre

CAB & S.O.L.L.A.S. Ministries

Sponsored

How NOT to Need Joint Replacement Surgery

Each of us wants to live our lives being able to do whatever we want with little to no pain. Sometimes, however, joint problems, particularly arthritis, can prevent us from having the desired quality of life. Osteoarthritis, or the loss of the cartilage that covers and protects the ends of the bone, leading to inflammation and pain, is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Though joint replacement surgery can be an effective solution for the worst joint issues caused by osteoarthritis, preventing the need for any invasive procedure is the best approach when possible. The following suggestions, strategies, and lifestyle modifications are proven to help maintain optimal joint health and avoid the need for a surgical procedure.

Stay Active

Many of us have heard our doctor say the dreaded phrase, “You are overweight and need to exercise.” Upon hearing those words, we may immediately think, “Definitely easier said than done,” or even, “You look like YOU need to follow your advice.” Without any further instructions, we may become discouraged and unable to improve. Instead of using the word “exercise,” it is better to substitute the term “movement.” Regular movement is critical to joint health. Movement includes all activities promoting full joint range of motion and flexibility while protecting the joint from injury. These include stretching, low-impact yoga, range of motion exercises, dancing, or water aerobics. Regular movement, MORE than weight reduction, is an essential factor in decreasing arthritis pain.

Protect Your Joints

Other tips to protect your joints include:

Start slow – take it easy on yourself so that you don’t end up making your joint pain worse.

Make it low impact: Use your local pool or a stationary bike to reduce joint wear and tear.

Use heat: Heat before movement relaxes the muscles, allowing for more effortless motion.

Ice after – Icing your joints for 20 minutes after movement helps decrease pain due to inflammation.

Paying attention to how you do things will lessen the chance of injury and decrease the wear and tear on your joints over time.

to reduce the strain on your joints, particularly the spine, hips, and knees. Paying attention to how you do things will lessen the chance of injury and decrease the wear and tear on your joints over time.

Hydrate

Ensure you practice good posture while sitting, standing, and lifting heavy objects

As we age, our bodies’ ability to tell us that we aren’t drinking enough water gets weaker. Since the cartilage that protects

our joints is about 80% water, ensuring we drink enough is critical. 6-8 glasses or cups of water daily is a good start, but the right amount varies from person to person. Signs that you aren’t getting enough water include dry mouth, dark urine, low blood pressure, and/or dizziness when standing. n

–Bro. William A. Ross Jr., MD Zion Hill Health Ministry

CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS

Noon Day Bible Study: Join Noon Day Bible Study, Wednesdays, 12:00pm, In-person in the Fellowship Hall.

S.O.L.L.A.S.: Traditional Bible Class, Wednesdays at 12:00pm Noon: – Join us In-Person in the Executive Conference Room 109, or join us Virtually via Zoom Link – Click Here

Bible for Life: Join Pastor Parker in the Sanctuary on Wednesdays at 7:00pm for our weekly, “Shake It Up” bible study in-person and virtually. You can virtually experience Zion Hill at either of the following links:

YouTube ZHBCATL zionhill https://zhbc.pub/ youtube

Boxcast: https://boxcast.tv/channel/glwvkeoykzdo718oqmae

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

FLU Vaccinations (Only): The Fulton County Board of Health will administer flu vaccinations/ shots, on Tuesday, March 5th starting at 10:00 am – 3:00 pm in the Love Center, rooms 35 & 40. Please bring your vaccination and insurance card. No appointment necessary. This program will cease on March 19th.

Joy for Life Senior Ministry Garden Dedication Ceremony: The “Seeds of Love” Garden Ceremony will be held on Thursday, March 7th

with a start time of 10:00am in the Fellowship Hall. For additional details please contact Sister C. Harris at charris@zionhill.org.

ZHBC’s Faith and Finance Workshops: Save the Date, Faith and Finance 2024! Join us on Saturday, March 9th as we explore the intersection of faith and finance. This in-person event will feature interactive workshops in the areas of: Investments, Estate Planning, Starting/ Funding a Business, First-Time Home-Buying, Real Estate Investing, Senior Services/Medicare, Taxes, Personal/Business Finances, Insurance, Senior Services/Medicare, Reverse Mortgage, Mortgage Lending, and Taxes, all facilitated by qualified and experienced professionals from our community. Come and expand your knowledge on how to manage your finances in a way that aligns with your beliefs and values. Don't miss out on this enriching experience at Zion Hill Baptist Church! Registration is FREE, but class sizes are limited. For easy and convenient registration, visit https://zhbcffw2024.eventbrite.com.

New Disciples Orientation: (2nd Sunday instead of 1st Sunday)

Sunday, March 10th following service at 11:30 am, Room 109 in the Love Center. This is an in-person and a virtual class.

ZHBC Congregational Call Meeting – Zion Hill

CDC: Please join Pastor Parker on March 11, 2024 at 7:00PM for a call meeting via Zoom in reference to the Zion Hill CDC. To join, please

click here or follow link: https://us06web.zoom. us/j/85815524815?pwd=3M2OlPZ9gQx161Ah9HioaRCKvb8kVg.t4g0TduK16sAxGaM.

Youth and Children Volunteers: The Youth and Children’s Ministry is seeking volunteers to support their activities on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Sundays. If you are willing and available, please contact Reverend Brenton Cox at 404844-4276 or via email at bcox@zionhill.org.

Zion Hill Employment Opportunities: We ask that all interested candidates contact us via email for the full job description and/or résumé submission to employment@zionhill.org. No phone calls, please.

Video Technician, Department:

Media Ministry: The Video Technician will support the ministry goals of Zion Hill and provide technical expertise for all video and video-related needs of the church. The environment is one of Christian creativity and teamwork with a passion for excellence in serving and worshipping God. Under the leadership of the Media Ministry Director, the Video Technician contributes to implementing the media strategy to ensure that Zion Hill services and events utilize visual technology in conjunction with audio efficiently, effectively, and strategically in order to enhance the experience of those attending services virtually and in the physical space. For a full job description, please contact the church office at zhbc@zionhill.org.

CAB Ministry Voting Communication

In preparation for the Presidential Preference Primary (PPP), which will be held on Tuesday, Mar 12th, 2024.

Please view the provided information:

n VOTE BY MAIL

REQUESTING YOUR BALLOT

Any registered Georgia voter may request a ballot to vote by mail. Link to request your mail-in ballot: Georgia Absentee Ballots – www.Vote.org

The deadline to request a mail-in ballot is Friday, March 1, 2024, but we strongly recommend requesting your ballot as soon as possible.

RETURNING YOUR BALLOT

Completed mail ballots must be returned no later than 7 PM on Election Day (Tuesday, March 12, 2024). You may return your ballot in one of three ways:

n BY MAIL following the instructions provided with your ballot.

n IN PERSON at your county registrar’s office.

n AT A SECURE DROP BOX established by your county. Contact your county registrar for your drop box location(s) and operating hours.

n VOTE EARLY IN PERSON

All registered Georgia voters may vote early from Monday, February 19 –Friday, March 8, 2024.

n VOTE ON ELECTION DAY

Polling places will be open from 7 AM — 7 PM on Election Day: Tuesday, March 12, 2024

We want YOU to contribute!

If your ministry has an 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

6175 Campbellton Road, South Fulton/Atlanta, GA 30331 Rev. Aaron L. Parker, PhD, Pastor 404-691-8025 • www.zionhill.org • email: zhbc@zionhill.org

Join Pastor Parker in the Sanctuary on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm for our

(BFL) bible study series

In-Person & Virtual

Wearing a mask is optional. 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/

YouTube: ZHBCATL zionhill https://www.youtube.com/zhbcatlzionhill Available after streaming as recordings.