The LIU – May 2021 by zhbcatl

May 2021

A newsletter of Zion Hill Baptist Church

THE LIU (pronounced LEE-UU)

Overcoming the Challenges of Fear

ver the past year and a half, the COVID-19 virus has challenged our lives in so many ways. We have had to redefine how we interact with strangers, coworkers, friends, and most importantly our family members. We have even dealt with social, economic, health, educational, spiritual and psychological challenges. The list goes on-and-on. Through it all, we maintained the hope that change would one day come. The change that we hoped for came in the form of the COVID-19 vaccine. These hailstorms of challenges were the introduction of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, both of which have a 95% efficacy in protecting us from contracting

the COVID-19 virus. Both vaccines are equally effective in reducing our risk of dying and/or becoming severely ill. Hope derived from these discoveries came with much trepidation causing increased doubt and fear about taking these new vaccines, especially within the African American community. The concerns raised about these vaccines included trust in the American Healthcare System, adverse effects on our health, and the possibility of having a fatal reaction. These concerns have become the new challenges for many of us. After contracting COVID-19 in December of 2020, I found myself pondering many of these same concerns. I concluded that taking the vaccine was in my best

interest. My decision came from diligently researching the possible side effects, and finally coming to a personal conclusion that this act would enable me to interact with my family and friends without the fear of infecting them or my being infected by them. Since then, I have taken both doses of the Pfizer vaccine with little or no side effects. The Pfizer vaccine is now available for ages 16 years and above and administered in a series of two doses, three weeks apart. The Moderna vaccine is available for ages 18 years and above and administered in a series of two doses, four weeks apart. It is important to note that CDC says people are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or two weeks after the single dose. Some of the possible side effects may include, pain, redness and swelling at the injection site, tiredness, headaches, muscle pains, chills, fever, and nausea. These two vaccines are proven safe and effective. The FDA and CDC had paused the administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine due to some health concerns; however, after conducting further studies, it is has been lifted and is now available for people 18 years and older. These two reputable organizations concluded that the benefits of the vaccinations outweigh the risks of vaccinated persons with this one dose vaccine of getting blood clots. You are considered fully (continued on page 3)

Looking Forward

REAP ROLL CALL New Members April 2021 Sis. Beatrice Harrison

CHURCH FAMILY

Acknowledgments April 2021 Your kindness is deeply appreciated, gratefully acknowledged, and will always be remembered by: Sis. Dorothy Goines Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, Inc. The Family of Willie James "Bill" Byrd

f course, one of the most pressing questions on the minds of the Zion Hill Family is when will we reassemble in person as a body of believers to worship and praise our God. While we cannot answer this question definitively at this moment, it seems certain that we are significantly closer now than when I communicated with you through this medium last month. Because of diligent COVID-19 vaccination efforts, locally and nationally, millions more Americans have receive shots as we seek to reach what some call herd or community immunity. Much work, however, remains – vaccinating those in more remote areas, dealing with those who are hesitant about or resistant to getting the vaccine, vaccinating children younger than 16, and addressing the complications of variants of the original virus. In our consideration of the possibility of reopening, we distributed an anonymous vaccination survey (see below) on Thursday, 4/29/2021 via email, seeking to gain some data that will assist the Zion Hill COVID-19 Task Force in the decision-making process regarding reassembling in the sanctuary for worship. The survey only requires responses to two very simple questions, which will most likely take less than three minutes. After responding to the questions, please click “finished” to enter your responses. I thank the hundreds of my brothers and sisters who have already filled out the survey, and I urge the rest of the Family to please do so as soon as possible. If you did not receive the link or do not have access to email and are willing to participate, please call the church office (404-691-8025). Depending upon the volume of our responses, we may do another survey later. Now, to my sisters and brothers who might still have some reservations about getting the vaccine or have concluded that you will not take it. First, I want to let you know that I think I understand your concern. The history of the American healthcare system and African Americans includes some sinister activity on the part of the system. Also, on any given day, we can read a plethora of internet articles arguing against taking the vaccine. Furthermore, you may have heard or talked with people who have had significant side-effects and you wonder how you might respond. My advice to you is to pray for guidance, consult a reputable health professional and hear what she/he has to say about the vaccine, talk with others who have taken the vaccine (I have), consider the possible consequences of not taking a vaccine, and make a faithful and informed decision. I trust that God will guide you in the right direction. I continue to pray for all of you and look forward to seeing you in person when we gather again. May our gracious God bless you abundantly. n —Pastor Parker COVID-19 Vaccination Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/

ZHBC_COVID-19_Vaccine

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Overcoming the Challenges of Fear (continued) vaccinated two weeks after taking the single dose of the Johnson and Johnson shot. We hope that as you understand the vital importance of the vaccines, everyone will take the necessary steps to get vaccinated so we can be restored to a normal way of life. n Remember, “God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind” — Minister Michael Martin Health Ministry Reference: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/safety

When You Have Been Fully Vaccinated

OVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting you from getting sick. Based on what we know about COVID-19 vaccines, people who have been fully vaccinated can start to do some things that they had stopped doing because of the pandemic. We’re still learning how vaccines will affect the spread of COVID-19. After you’ve been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you should keep taking precautions—like wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart from others, and avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces—in public places until we know more. These recommendations can help you make deci-

sions about daily activities after you are fully vaccinated. They are not intended for healthcare settings. Have You Been Fully Vaccinated? People Are Considered Fully Vaccinated: n 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or n 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine If you don’t meet these requirements, you are NOT fully vaccinated. Keep taking all precautions until you are fully vaccinated.

If You Have Been Fully Vaccinated

YOU CAN Visit inside a home or private setting without a mask with other fully vaccinated people of any age Visit inside a home or private setting without a mask with one household of unvaccinated people who are not at risk for severe illness Travel domestically without a pre- or post-travel test Travel domestically without quarantining after travel Travel internationally without a pre-travel test depending on destination Travel internationally without quarantining after travel

YOU SHOULD NOT Visit indoors, without a mask, with people at increased risk for severe from COVID-19 illness Attend medium or large gatherings Zion Hill offers lamination of COVID-19 cards to those participants who are fully vaccinated on our campus.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html; Updated April 2, 2021

ZHBC@zionhill.org |

COVID-19 Vaccination Survey Zion Hill Family, Pastor Parker and the Zion Hill COVID-19 Task Force are asking you to participate in a very brief COVID-19 Vaccination Survey.

Please take a moment to respond to two statements by clicking the below link:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZHBC_COVID-19_Vaccine Please share this survey link with any Zion Hill member who may not have received the link.

NEW LIVE STREAMING SERVICE Zion Hill has recently switched one of our livestreaming platforms! We are now using BoxCast to broadcast our worship services and Bible for Life classes. We are no longer using Your Church Stream TV.

PLAY

LIVE

1. Download the BoxCast app on Roku or Apple TV. 2. Once the BoxCast app has downloaded, search for Zion Hill Baptist Church - South Fulton, GA 3. Click on the Zion Hill Baptist Church logo 4. Click in the box that shows "Live" Option 2: If you do not have a Roku or Apple TV, you can con-

nect a computer/laptop directly to the TV using an HDMI cable. Your TV screen will mirror your computer display. Option 3: Connect a computer, tablet, or smartphone over Wi-Fi

on’t miss Pastor’s inspirational and encouraging messages! Just access our streaming directly from BoxCast at: https:// boxcast.tv/channel/glwvkeoykzdo7l8oqmae. Or, you may also join us on social media at YouTube: ZHBCATL zionhill or FaceBook: @zhbcatl. HOW TO WATCH ZION HILL BAPTIST CHURCH SERVICES ON A SMART TV BoxCast Option Option 1: The easiest way to view our live broadcast on a Smart

TV is to view through the BoxCast app. Here are the steps to view Zion Hill broadcast on the BoxCast app:

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using a Chromecast or using Apple Airplay connection. If you are experiencing any connection issues, please reach out to the Zion Hill Help Desk at helpdesk@zionhill.org and our technical team will be happy to assist you. FaceBook Option

Download the FaceBook Watch App on your SmartTV and search for ZHBC.* YouTube Option

Download the YouTube App on your SmartTV and search for ZHBCATL zionhill.* —Sis. Gloria Williams, Media Ministry *Instructions may vary based on age and model of your SmartTV. Consult your user guide.

“Hope Sustained” Greetings, Brothers and Sisters!

S.O.L.L.A.S. BLAST IV Reaching toward the finish line! S.O.L.L.A.S., the School of Love, Learning And Service continues in its effort to provide Christian Education that assists in our edification and growth as Disciples of Christ. During 2021 we’re moving forward in our Christian walk, learning to adjust to a new way of life, a deeper dependence on God and a more resolute foundation built on Hope. Growing in Grace, we know who we are and whose we are as we stand on Jesus, the Solid Rock. Our virtual Adult ZOOM classes will resume starting Monday, June 7-Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Pastor Parker will close the Adult sessions on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 with Bible For Life (BFL) via our normal streaming platforms. All Adult sessions begin at 7:00 P.M. Adult Classes 1. Sustaining Quality Of Life: This time

of isolation and uncertainty of the unknown can lead to a state of spiritual suffering. Our religious beliefs and

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“ He who rescued us from so deadly a peril will continue to rescue us; on him we have set our hope that he will rescue us again.” -2 Corinthians 1:10 NRSV

practices fail to provide meaning to our life. We may even feel abandoned by God. How do I continue to remain hopeful that God will deliver us when nothing seems to be getting better?

4. S ustaining My Marriage: This

marriage has caused me to rethink my decision during this pandemic and so much “quality” time together. What are the challenges to sustain the marriage? What are the steps to sustain what we have and keep trying?

2. S ustaining My Environment:

Everything that we need for our survival and all of God’s creation depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. To pursue sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present & future generations. What can I do to assure that my legacy has hope for the future and the environment? 3. S ustaining My Relationships

(Economic, Social, Human): Life crises can negatively influence emotional function of household members. Everyone has a role and some more than one role. How do I keep these relationships centered and grounded, genuine and cordial, respectful and honest?

Youth & Children’s Classes Youth: Sustaining Our Environment:

Friday, June 11, 2021 Youth will be engaged in discussion of being good stewards of their community resources. They will be taught how to sustain the environment, their health and their education for the future. • • • •

Ages 10 & Under Ages 11-12 Ages 13-15 Ages 16-18

Check your emails and our FaceBook page for Zoom registration information and sign up for a class! We’re hoping to see you there. –In Love and Service The S.O.L.L.A.S. Ministry.

2021 CHURCH CALENDAR

Sunday Worship at 9:30 a.m., virtual every Sunday, until further notice Observance of the Lord’s Supper at 9:30 a.m., virtual every 1st Sunday, until further notice Bible for Life, virtual every Wednesday at 7:00 pm, unless further notice SECOND QUARTER MAY

2 9 25 30

Sunday Sunday Tuesday Sunday

New Discipleship Orientation Session, virtual at 12:00 p.m. Mother’s Day Recognition Worship Service, virtual at 9:30 a.m. Conversation with the Pastor, virtual at 7:00 p.m. Outreach Sunday Worship Service, virtual at 9:30 a.m.

JUNE

7-9 11 20 26

Mon - Wed Friday Sunday Saturday

SOLLAS BLAST for Adults, virtual at 7:00 p.m. SOLLAS BLAST for Youth & Children, virtual at 7:00 p.m. Father's Day Recognition Worship Service, virtual at 9:30 a.m. Vision 2021 Church Conference Update, virtual at noon

Sunday

149th Church Anniversary Celebration

AUGUST 15

COMING SOON!

Zion Hill, we are transitioning our church-wide database to ACS Technologies’ newest communication tool, Realm!

What is Realm? Realm is an online ministry tool designed for real time connection. As a part of our vibrant and active Zion Hill church family, you’ll love it. Realm allows you to manage your personal information and who is allowed to see it, manage your giving online, and keep in touch with members and your ministries. Everyone can be connected from anywhere at any time, right from your mobile devices. As we continue Living to Love and Loving to Serve virtually, check out what you will be able to do with Realm: n Update your personal information n Look up members in our member directory n Communicate with your ministry n Follow church announcements n View giving history and print giving statements n Keep track of tithes, commitments and offerings n Register for events Account activation coming soon. Watch Zion Hill church announcements to sign up! ZHBC@zionhill.org |

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Training At Zion Hill, we know that CPR training is important. It can save your life, your children’s lives, your parents' lives, or even a stranger’s life. Getting trained is easily accessible to anyone who wants it and not hard to complete. The Zion Hill staff took some time on Saturday, May 1st, to get certified or renew their certification.

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" It’s not the technology. It’s the relationships..." —Douglas Estes, SimChurch: Being the Church in the Virtual World

Registration is required only once. If you have previously registered, use the original Zoom "join" link you received upon registration. It is not necessary to register again.

ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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.

BIBLE for LIFE Join Pastor Parker on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm streaming live on Facebook, YouTube, and at

https://boxcast.tv/channel/glwvkeoykzdo7l8oqmae

Series Title:

“Hope Revived (HR)”

The LIU is a publication of

Available after streaming as recordings. 2021 Theme: Hope Revived" 6175 Campbellton Road, South Fulton/Atlanta, GA 30331 Rev. Aaron L. Parker, PhD, Pastor 404-691-8025 • www.zionhill.org • email: zhbc@zionhill.org

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2021 Theme Scripture: “He who rescued us from so deadly a peril will continue to rescue us; on him we have set our hope that he will rescue us again….” (II Corinthians 1:10, NRSV)