The LIU – April 2020

Apr 2020

A newsletter of Zion Hill Baptist Church

THE LIU (pronounced LEE-UU)

“Remote Closeness” The Importance of Staying Connected

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n the past few weeks, the impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has resulted in imposed restrictions of “social or physical distancing” that has affected the church and the way that we worship together as a body of believers.

We are thankful for the wisdom of our anointed Pastor, Dr. Aaron L. Parker, and appreciate his undeniable love for God’s people that led him to create opportunities to maintain closeness and focus on church members from a distance or remotely. After realizing the seriousness of the coronavirus, Pastor Parker utilized various technology media, such as, online live streaming, Facebook and YouTube to intentionally communicate, reach, and stay connected to church members and community.

We are thankful for the technology developments and advancements and its availability and accessibility to members that has allowed us to stay connected and has provided a platform for the Word of God to be relayed through His Servant-Leader, Pastor Parker. As a result of his insight and foresight, the church worship services on Sunday, at 9:30 a.m., Bible Study, Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m., the Conversation with the Pastor and the special Encouragement Session have continued without interruptions. The empowering, (continued on page 3)

Watch How We Walk

REAP ROLL CALL New Members March 2020 Sister LaToya R. Benjamin Sister Kristen Air'ee Cain Sister Madison Renee Clark Sister Shauna Clark Sister Ariel Elizabeth Cochrane-Brown Sister Brandy Ann Dangerfield Sister Nickia Kaydesica Folkes Brother Marshall Vincent Lott, III Sister Patricia Ann Lott Brother Madison Lucas Mitchell Brother Neil Anthony Phillips Sister Nedra L. Rucker

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OVID-19, Coronavirus, worldwide pandemic, plague, scourge of humanity, the curve, the wave, the virus, the disease, symptoms, social-distancing, shelter-inplace, quarantine, self-monitoring, handwashing, sanitizing, 6-feet, airborne, hospital capacity, ventilators, PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), stay home – over the past few weeks this has been a lot to take in, let alone fully digest. The sheer volume of information coming at us through a seemingly endless flood of media mouthpieces can lead to resignation, frustration and even utter despair.

As we make our way through this unprecedented quagmire of challenge, disruption, and uncertainty, I want to urge each of us to watch how we walk. First, let me encourage us to walk in wisdom. We should learn as many of the available facts as we possibly can by availing ourselves of the most accurate science on this crucial matter. Although we realize that science does not have all the answers, it does have some significant ones, and some of those answers may very well save the physical lives of our loved ones, others as well as our own. Follow the prescribed directives for safety (many of which you can find in this newsletter); listen for new developments as critical factors change daily; the old adage holds true, especially in a situation like this – “It is better to be safe than sorry.”

Additionally, we should not become distracted by the self-centered political posturing that so often occurs during times like these, for this will only cause us to lose our focus.

Remember the proverb, “Happy are those who find wisdom, and those who get understanding” (Proverbs 3:13).

Furthermore, as we confront the ravages of this disease, we should watch how we walk in another way. This way takes into consideration how easy it is during times like this to permit fear, worry, and anxiety to gain the upper hand in our hearts and minds.

From a purely psychological point of view, some uneasiness might seem reasonable in this case. Nevertheless, we must not become consumed by any of these diabolical thieves of our peace, for when they rule they do so to our destruction. Rather, let us continuously affirm and operate in what the Apostle Paul related to the believers in the city of Corinth: “…for we walk by faith, not by sight” (II Corinthians 5:7). We do not see what the outcome of this pandemic is right now; we do not know how we will fare during its continued progression throughout the land. We can, however, find persevering strength and solace by trusting in the God who, in one way or another, “heals all our diseases” (Psalm 103:3).

Brothers and sisters, we need to watch how we walk. I recommend that we walk in wisdom, and walk by faith. This, I maintain, is a viable prescription for these taxing and tenuous times. n —Pastor Parker

“Remote Closeness” (continued from page 1)

inspirational messages have had far reaching effects beyond the church walls and extended to the larger community. Last week, it was recorded that there were over 7,000 viewers, who were blessed by the divinely anointed message of faith, hope, trust in God and in the healing, transforming power through Jesus Christ! The compelling call to discipleship resulted in a new member joining Zion Hill and accepting Christ as her Lord and Saviour.

During this most challenging and dramatically life- changing time, we are blessed by the empowerment of Pastor Parker to teach God’s Word in this season of change. We have witnessed the positive benefits of maintaining closeness remotely, the importance of staying connected and the evidence of “living to love and loving to serve.” n —Submitted by: Beverly McCray, Ed.D.

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Sustaining Mental and Emotional Health have you been feeling about the COVID-19 pandemic? People are in a Crisis How expressing a full range of emotions: “Relieved to be working from home,” “Hate not seeing more people every day,” “Scared of what will happen next.” All of the emotions we are feeling are understandable, given the circumstances.

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hen we are confronted with unexpected challenges like COVID-19, especially those that create a sense of uncertainty, it is normal to feel anxious because our brains may interpret the situation as danger. Our “fight or flight” impulses are heightened, and we may be more irritable than usual. This response is common whether we are experiencing

from this pandemic? We do not know how long this extraordinary experience will last, nor do we know all the ways that it might permanently change our lives. Not knowing is part of the challenge. We work very hard at getting answers to important questions in our lives. When the answers are not readily available, we are outside of our comfort zones.

“ God is our refuge and strength; a very present help in trouble.” (Ps. 46:1) a sense of isolation because of social distancing and shelter-at-home requirements, overstimulation because of crowded and unpleasant living conditions, or loss because of sudden and dramatic changes to our life circumstances.

There are so many questions that cross our minds: Will things ever get back to normal? Are all the recommended precautions really necessary? [Answer: YES!] What permanent changes might result

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Thankfully, we have the benefit of excellent teaching that helps us gain perspective and strength for navigating these uncharted waters. In recent weeks, we have learned from Pastor Parker that our “pan-faith” can help us meet any challenge we face, that through faith we are able to give and receive “healing without touching,” and most importantly, “God is our refuge and strength; a very present help in trouble.” (Ps. 46:1).

These messages encourage us to see this cri-

sis from a spiritual vantage point, accepting that the experience may be difficult for us, but knowing that God is still in control. That is our belief in good times and in bad.

So, as we move through these challenging times, take comfort in doing what we can for ourselves and each other. Remember to take seriously the precautions recommended to maintain your health and the wellbeing of those around you. Eliminate non-essential trips out of the house, practice social distancing, sanitize your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, wear face coverings—these are all useful practices to reduce the spread of the virus.

If you are caring for children who are out of school for weeks to come, psychologist Dr. Malauna Crivens Hogan of Dallas, Texas recommends creating daily schedules to bring order to the new experience of home schooling. She also recommends that families dust off the board games and enjoy some old-fashioned, non-digital fun with each other. Through God, this crisis may present an opportunity to connect with friends and loved ones in new ways.

Be kind to yourself and to those around you. Relax. Breathe. Be still.

If this pandemic has resulted in real or threatened losses for you—transitions of family members or friends; loss of a job, income, or sense of purpose--coping may be especially difficult. Remember to trust God through this storm because God will see us through. We do not know the answers to all of our questions, but we know a loving God who sustains us. That is the bedrock of our faith.

We are here to support each other. We invite you to call the church office if you wish to speak with a counselor. n —Peace and blessings, Zion Hill Counseling Ministry

Praise Ringers and Mothers’ Ministries Calling Members

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raise Ringers and Mother’s Ministries have implemented a Calling Team to assist with communicating, encouraging, spreading love and staying in touch with members amidst the coronavirus pandemic. The goal is to call every member to ensure that they are receiving the church emails, accessing the website and Facebook to hear Pastor Parker’s powerful and inspirational messages, assisting, if possible, and directing them to the church office if they have needs. Telephone conference calls will be scheduled, if needed, to ensure that all are able to hear

Pastor Parker’s messages and are aware of the Zion Hill Church updates.

The membership rosters were updated, the number of members were divided (5-6) and the leadership team members volunteered to help with the calling. Calls will be made weekly or more frequently if needed. We are excited about this calling system and look forward to the positive impact as we continue to follow Pastor Parker’s leadership motto “living to love & loving to serve.”

—Submitted by Beverly McCray, Ed.D.

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Top 10 Tips for Improving Your Video Streaming Quality

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ion Hill Baptist Church and the Media Ministry are pleased to be able to offer streaming of our services to our church family and other viewers during this critical time. The amount of bandwidth that is being used globally is unprecedented and has caused both internet and streaming providers to work overtime. While your video streaming experience will ultimately depend on the speed and strength of your internet connection, here are a few tips that can help improve your video streaming quality:

1. Limit the number of ongoing tasks for the streaming item.

This simply means ensuring that you aren't downloading programs or keeping unnecessary programs (or even tabs in your browser) open while streaming. For example, you should close any background programs (e.g., Skype, Steam, web browsers, etc.) that you aren't explicitly using while streaming video. If your computer, phone, or console is currently downloading items, consider waiting for the downloads to finish (or pausing them) while streaming.

2. Temporarily disable other Internet connections.

If other computers, phones, and so on are using your Internet connection while you stream, you're sharing the connection with those items as well. To minimize the number of "distractions" for the network, turn off the Internet connections for as many other items in the house as possible.

If your streaming item is the only thing connected to the Internet, your streaming quality and speed should improve.

3. Stream during a low-activity time.

When other people who use your Internet connection stream, download, or otherwise take up significant portions of the connection, your streaming quality will suffer. Try to stream video during times at which others aren't doing so. Pay attention to popular streaming times in your geographical area as well, since use during post-work hours on weekdays can slow down the overall Internet speed in the area.

4. Check your Internet speed.

You should know the approximate download speed in megabits per second (mbp/s) for which you're paying your Internet Service Provider (ISP). If the Internet

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7. Use Ethernet instead of wireless Internet.

If you use a wireless signal from your router to connect to the Internet, try using a physical connection instead. Not only does this increase your connection speed and consistency, it also prevents your streaming item from dropping the connection (unless your router goes offline) and negates any obstacles between the streaming item and the router.

If possible, use a shielded Ethernet cable if your router is across the room from (or in a different room than) the streaming item. Doing so will minimize the chances of damaging the cable.

8. Use your router's 5 GHz channel instead of the 2.4 GHz

speed test proves that you aren't reaching something close to that speed, you can call your ISP to address the problem. If your download speed matches or comes close to the advertised download speed, the issue is most likely on your end rather than the ISP's. Go to http://www.speedtest.net to check your internet speed.

5.Reset your router if necessary.

If you've never reset your home network in the time that you've had it, doing so will likely have a positive impact on your Internet speed. Restarting the network, also known as "power-cycling", clears the network's cache. Resetting the router itself restores the network to its default settings, but also removes any connected phones, tablets, computers, and other items from the network.

6. Establish a line of sight between your router and your streaming item.

The more obstacles there are between your streaming item and your router, the worse your streaming experience will be.

If possible, make sure that your router has an unimpeded path to your streaming item. If this isn't possible, try to minimize the number of electrical or solid items between the router and your streaming item.

If you use Ethernet, skip this step.

channel.

If your router is a "dual-band" model, you'll have two different types of channel: 2.4 GHz, and 5.0 GHz. The 2.4 channel is more commonly used than the 5.0 channel, so try using the 5.0 to limit the number of connections that you have to share. Most routers that have two channels will provide you with two Wi-Fi networks when you go to connect to them; the 5.0 channel's name is usually a variation of the regular Wi-Fi channel's name.

Keep in mind that 5.0 channels allow for faster Wi-Fi but do not have the same range as 2.4 channels, meaning that your streaming item will have to be closer to the router.

9. Adjust your streaming service's quality.

Unfortunately, you may have to compromise on quality to get the video streaming consistency that you want. Most streaming services and video players have a quality setting (typically indicated by a gear icon) that you can adjust from "HD" (or anything including "720p" and up) to "SD" (or "480p" and down).

10. Talk to your internet service provider if you are still not able to receive the quality of video streaming that you desire. —Gloria Jean Williams Certified Technology Specialist

Reference: Wikipedia

COVID-19: FACTS and MYTHS

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f you have a fever or cough, you might have COVID-19. Most people have mild illness and are able to recover at home. If have an emergency warning sign (including trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to awaken, bluish lips or face), get medical attention right away.

This list is not conclusive, so if you have any other symptoms that are severe or concerning, call the doctor.

This edition of LIU will focus primarily on facts and myths that warrant your attention.

Facts How to discontinue home isolation 1. If you will not have a test to determine if you are still contagious, you can leave home after these three things have happened: a. You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (3 full days of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers) b. Other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved) c. At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared 2. If you will be tested to determine if you are still contagious, you can leave home after these three things have happened: a. You no longer have a fever (without the use of medicine that reduces fever) b. Other symptoms have improved (i.e., your cough and shortness of breath have improved) c. You received two negative tests in a row, 24 hours apart.

Your doctor will follow CDC guidelines.

Clean your hands often 1. W ash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating and preparing food.

2. Hands sanitizers – Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of our hands and rubbing them together until they are completely dry.

3. Soap and water are the best option, especially if hands are visibly dirty.

4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Prevention: 1. There are currently no vaccines for COVID-19.

2. Tylenol is most effective in reducing fevers, not Ibuprofen.

3. When using a mask, make sure your hands are clean when placing over your nose and mouth. Place the mask in the palm of your hand with the inside facing you. Never touch the inside of the mask. When removing the mask, wash your hands first and do not touch the inside when removing. Place mask in a clean area, then wash your hands again.

4. When using gloves, be sure not to touch your face, nose and mouth. Do not touch clean areas with gloves (purse, cell phones).

5. Practice “physical” distancing remaining at least six feet away from all persons, except those in your immediate household who are not sick.

Precautions: The World Health Organization and the CDC (Center for Disease Control) have identified certain high-risk illnesses. These include chronic lung disease, moderate to severe asthma, serious heart conditions, people who are immunocompromised including cancer treatment, and people of any age with severe obesity (body mass index greater than 40). Persons with uncontrolled diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease might also be at risk. Truthfully, the rest of us are also at risk if we do not exercise caution.

MYTH BUSTERS 1. Covid-19 virus cannot be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climates.

From the evidence so far, the virus can be transmitted in ALL AREAS, regardless of climate.

2. Taking a hot bath prevents the new coronavirus disease.

Actually, taking a hot bath with extremely hot water can be harmful, as it can burn you.

3. Spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will kill viruses that have already entered your body.

This process can be harmful to clothes and mucous membranes (i.e. eyes and mouth). Be aware that both alcohol and chlorine can be useful to disinfect surfaces, (not your body) and they should be used by following appropriate recommendations.

4. Rinsing your nose with saline prevents the coronavirus infection.

There is no evidence that regularly rinsing the nose with saline has protected people from the virus. It can however help people recover more quickly from the common cold, but not the coronavirus.

5. Drinking or gargling with hot water, sipping lemon water or eating garlic prevents the coronavirus.

It may make you feel better, but it does not protect you from the virus. COVID-19 infects the respiratory system by directly entering the body through the mouth or nose. This fact is central to CDC and WHO recommendations.

—Prayerfully submitted Sis. Nita Shaffer and Minister Michael Martin Zion Hill Health Ministry References: www.CDC.gov and www.who.int.

A Sanitized Sanctuary

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our health and safety mean the world to us. Be assured that the severity of the situation is apparent to everyone. We want you to feel safe and to be at peace when you return to the Campus. As a result, the Facilities Team is taking every precaution to disinfect and sanitize every surface according to guidelines recommended by both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Office of Occupational Health and Safety (OSHA). This means that the Sanctuary, Love Center, Fellowship Hall, gymnasium, all offices and all common areas are repeatedly cleaned. Every toy, book and piece of equipment will have been sanitized.

Hebrew 10:25 (KJV) states that we are "not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some; but exhort one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

Every thought has been given to your care and consideration. We are here to serve you. —Brother Tyron Moore and Facility Team

We want YOU to contribute!

If your ministry has an event or news that you want mentioned, you can leave your information in the LIU mailbox in the office.

Please make sure that your article is emailed or on a flashdrive.

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, Atlanta, GA 30331 Rev. Aaron L. Parker, PhD, Pastor 404-691-8025 • www.zionhill.org

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The 2020 L.H. Williams Education Fund, Elliott Thompson Scholarship, and other scholarships application process is now open through June 29, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. EST. Please contact the church office at zhbc@zionhill.org for more information.