The LIU – August 2020

Aug 2020

A newsletter of Zion Hill Baptist Church

THE LIU (pronounced LEE-UU)

We Have the Victory!

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he Back-To-School Days worship service was an uplifting experience to anyone who tuned in to watch virtually.

The Manning Brothers testified on how they are staying the course despite what is currently going on in the world. They encouraged us to stay on the path – that this is all part of God’s plan and that the time we are in is only for a season. The Azizi Choir sang “123 Victory” claiming that we have the victory, no weapons and challenges formed against us will prosper and that God is still good. Pastor Parker’s famous roll call was a blessing to experience.

Even though we were not in the building, I still felt the same atmosphere but in the comments section. Generation 8 reminded us through their song that our God is big, strong, and mighty, and that there is nothing that God cannot do. Pastor Parker’s new school version of “Jesus On the Main Line” reminded us to “point and click”. The highlight of the service was Minister Chism’s sermon entitled: “We Have the Victory”. Her message was uplifting to hear despite all of the breaking news happening in the world.

The message was centered around Ec-

clesiastes 9:11 which essentially says: “the race is not given to the fast or the strong but to the one who endures it to the end.”

One idea that I grasped from the sermon is that we have to continue the race despite the many challenges that we will endure.

The service was definitely different from previous years due to the pandemic, but it was still inspiring. It inspired me to stay the course despite the uncertainty of my sophomore year of college. n —Korrina Bryan Sophomore, Georgia Southern University

ZION HILL’S FORTY-SIXTH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY

REAP ROLL CALL New Members July 2020 Sister Karen Brown-Collier Brother Reginald J. Riggins

CHURCH FAMILY

Acknowledgements June 2020 Your kind expressions of sympathy are deeply appreciated, gratefully acknowledged, and will always be remembered by: Deacon Wallis C. Baxter and Family Sister Marva Miles Brother Wayne Tulloch and Family

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s our church family prepares to celebrate 148 years of continuous existence (18722020), we do so under some of the most unusual circumstances ever – those arising from COVID-19, the world pandemic, and the current movement for racial justice, commonly tagged “Black Lives Matter.” Looking back in history, the most comparable time to this year’s observance would probably be Zion Hill’s 46th Church Anniversary, occurring in 1918. At that time our spiritual ancestors had to deal with what was called the Spanish flu, the deadliest such influenza in history, infecting an estimated 500 million people worldwide and killing an estimated 20-50 million people, including about 675,000 Americans. In October, 1918 alone, nearly 200,000 American died, making it the deadliest month in the history of the United States. On top of this devastating plague, World War I had not yet ended and African Americans labored under some of the most humiliating and brutal expressions of Jim Crow segregationist law, along with widespread lynching that occurred outside of the law.

We do not know the totality of what the Zion Hill family did in 1918 for the 46th Church Anniversary, but we do know this: They held together, for if they had not done so, we would not be here today. So, brothers and sisters, as we come to the 148th Church Anniversary, under eerily similar conditions – pandemic, racial tensions, international conflicts – we should at least follow their lead in holding together. Let us make this a time that we reaffirm our bond as a community of believers, who, like our forebears, trusted God through it all.

Join us, then, for the virtual Anniversary activity on Friday, August 14 at 7:00 pm; for the Zion Hill Parade beginning on Saturday, August 15 at 10:00 am (please come during your time interval); for virtual worship service on Sunday, August 16 at 9:30 am (see the Church Anniversary announcement in this document for further details).

Through these activities, other activities and much prayer, let us hold together. n —Pastor Parker

148TH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY ACTIVITIES • F RIDAY, AUGUST 14 Virtual Testimonial Service 7 pm

• SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 9:30am Worship Service with the Reverend Dr. Teresa L. Fry Brown, Professor of • SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 Preaching and Homiletics, Zion Hill Parade Around the at Emory University Candler Campus beginning at 10:00 School of Theology am. Decorate your vehicles.

Prizes awarded! Come wave to the Pastor!

"I Am Pursuing My Dreams - No Matter What!"

Korrina Bryan

Nyla Taylor

Nicholas Jennings

Phillip Middleton

Ralph Russell

Zahria Austin

RECENTLY, WE HAVE MOURNED THE PASSING OF CIVIL RIGHTS ICONS Reverend C.T. Vivien and Representative John Robert Lewis – both leaders entering Heaven on the same day (July 17, 2020). When we lose notable leaders, we often wonder who will now hold the mantle. Our social and political climates beg for positive change and human compassion. Then, I realize that there are voices who are being raised right in front of us – our children. For the last 10 years, it has been about the Millenial voice. Millenials have called out the need for change as a Church body if we intend to remain relevant to future generations.

Now, it is Generation Z who is not interested in round table discussions unless it is to strategize for the end of injustice or to get any question fully answered.

I recently asked a few of our Zion Hill College Students – our amazing Generation Z – to share with us their thoughts around, “I Am Pursuing My Dreams – No Matter What!” You will feel their words and know their passion.

As stated on Sunday, we have been blessed to raise and cultivate our amazing “Generational Eagles of Change.” May we continue to love and support them as they lead us on this race.

—Minister Felisha R. Chism Director of Youth and Children Ministries

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y name is Nicholas Jennings. I am an aspiring mechanical engineer student at Georgia Southern University.

Covid-19 hit America by storm in February, affecting things from as big as the NBA to things as small as a swimming pool. Among the many things shut down due to Covid-19, my college was one of them. The mechanical engineering pathway is hard enough; however, Covid-19 ripping me out of school made it extremely

difficult. Like a light switch, my first year went from face-to-face instruction to totally online. The mechanical engineering major is extremely hands-on, so online classes made college twice as hard. Even though the world is in a rut and completing my schoolwork is more difficult, I had to choose. I am pursuing my dreams no matter what. In the midst of this storm, I insist on being steadfast and unmovable until I get the job done. It's important to

dig deep and keep pursuing your dreams – regardless of something that may cause a detour and plans have to be altered. Don't give up. To help other students in similar situations to not feel alone, I would like to develop a website where students can post questions blog style to receive advice, recommendations, and support from people who may assist or understand. I want to name this platform, “ProfessMe.” —Nicholas Jennings Sophomore, Georgia Southern University

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ophomore, Georgia Southern University I often find myself with many challenges just being away from home as a college student. While on campus as a full-time student at Agnes Scott College , there was always the responsibility of balancing and maintaining a good work ethic along with having a personal life. This past semester, that all changed. I was faced with a new set of challenges. With COVID-19 causing the campus to shut down and moving all classes to a virtual space, I realized I was up against several new obstacles. Moving back home, I struggled to maintain the same work ethic.

I quickly realized I had to be even more disciplined than before since I did not have a set schedule and was removed from my normal routine. I found myself experimenting with different ways to adapt to virtual learning that would allow me to be the most productive. I am sure that I would benefit more from a classroom environment, but I was not going to let this ‘new normal’ stop me from pursuing my dreams.

In life you will always be faced with difficult challenges. As I enter my Senior year, I am encouraged because I have learned that as long as you have the support of family and friends you can adapt to any challenge in life and it will all be ok. Most importantly, I know that with God, all things are possible; and with His help, I can continue to pursue all my dreams.

—Nyla Taylor Senior, Agnes Scott College (continued on page 5) ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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Mask Etiquette 101 3. Thickness-Thicker and more densely woven fabrics, including quilted cotton or sheets, provide enough depth to form a greater barrier to the virus.

4. Transparency-A good rule of thumb is to hold the fabric up to the light. The less light that shines through the fabric, the more suitable the fabric. Less light means fewer droplets can get through the tiny holes in the fabric.

We are currently inundated with lurid rhetoric opposed to mask wearing spewed from those whose motives are antithetical to the health and wellness of us all. Despite opinions to the contrary, mask wearing is not only a scientifically proven method to assist in reducing the Coronavirus spread but is also becoming a new fashion statement. While mask wearing to protect yourself and others is arguably the most socially responsible approach, masks as a fashion accessory may motivate the wearer to add some creative flavor to the new accessory or purchase one of the available bedazzled masks.

All mask wearing, regardless of how fit snuggly yet allow the wearer the cute the masks may be, may not be efability to breathe and speak comfective in reducing the spread of the tiny fortably. viral particles of COVID 19. There are six attributes of effective mask wearing 2. Material- The most commonly as identified by scientists. They include worn masks, outside of those worn appropriate fit, material, thickness, by health professionals, are hometransparency, filter type, and tie. made or purchased cloth masks.

They can be created from a variety 1. Fit-The mask should be worn by of materials including cotton and covering the bridge of the nose and linen as well as from repurposed extend underneath the chin. It should bandanas, towels, or t-shirts.

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5. Filter Type- A filter, properly inserted between two pieces of fabric, increases the barrier faced by the viral droplets. Suitable materials include coffee filters, un-used vacuum cleaner bags, HVAC anti-allergy filters, or HEPA furnace filters. When using a filter made from home products such as the above, remember to insert it between 2 pieces of cloth to prevent inhaling potentially harmful fibers.

6 Tie- A mask should contain either loops that hook around the ears or ties, which can be secured in the back and therefore are more adjustable. A mask that has a bendable border across the bridge of the nose can be adjusted for those who wear eyeglasses.

So, feel free to apply fabric paint, rhinestones, glitter, or even write a message to the viewer asking, “Where’s YOUR mask?”. Whatever your mask wearing fashion statement may be, let’s wear them effectively and encourage others to do the same. n — Kathi Earles-Ross, MD ZHBC Health Ministry

VIRTUAL

SOLLAS BLAST is BACK at LAST!!

T

he Seasonal Changes that have suddenly occurred in the

Some people are even feeling hopeless during this difficult time.

world has caused us to make adjustments to “life as usual.”

You are not alone and this webinar will provide important and

SOLLAS BLAST has not been an exception but we are prayerfully and gradually returning.

SOLLAS, the School Of Love, Learning And Service, is presenting a Webinar entitled Finding Hope in the Midst of Emotional Unrest. Pastor Aaron L. Parker and the Zion Hill

significant information to support you in your struggle.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, August 13, 2020 @ 7PM as we seek to renew our hope. Keep your eyes and ears open, as more information will be provided.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believ-

Counseling Ministry will address the COVID-19 Pandemic, Police

ing (through the experience of your faith) that by the power of the

Brutality and Social Injustice in the African American community,

Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence

feelings of sadness, loss of financial security and loneliness, all of

in His promises. Romans 15:13 (Amplified). n

which have caused the invasion of anxiety, frustration and anger.

—Min. Galetha Thompson, SOLLAS Superintendent ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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Indoors and Online

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he last five or six months have seen our day-to-day lives undergo drastic changes because of COVID-19. The most obvious being the inability of people to assemble. Gathering together on our jobs, at school, in our homes or our places of worship are all prohibited but most of us understand that it is for the greater good of humanity. We are ALL asked to do our part to combat the spread of this virus while attempting to maneuver through a new normal. The focus of our work does not shift nor does it stop – it simply moves indoors and online.

Following is an excerpt from an online article on the UNICEF website that references how the massive global response to the COVID-19 pandemic can also apply to a global response to the way the climate crisis is approached: We all have a role to play. Climate change and COVID-19 are two very different challenges, but they do have some key things in common. Both are global – they do not respect national boundaries – and both require countries to work together to find solutions.

The global community has shown that it can act to address a crisis, with governments, businesses and individuals taking measures and changing behaviors in response to the pandemic. When we work together, even small personal actions when put together, like physical distancing, can make a big difference, helping us to overcome huge challenges.

Protect the most vulnerable. In a crisis, we must protect the most vulnerable. The last few years have seen young people around the world raising their voices on an unprecedented scale, asking

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adults and leaders to protect them from climate change. Now, by staying inside and taking their climate marches online, young people are showing solidarity with the older members of society, who are more vulnerable to the virus, by helping to stop the spread.

This kind of intergenerational solidarity is what solves crises. As the impact of climate change intensifies over time, it is the children and young people of today who will face its worst effects. Young people have been telling us that they are afraid of climate change with the same urgency as people now feel about COVID-19. This is a time for children and young people to talk with parents and grandparents, to discuss the kind of world we want to create when the pandemic has passed.

Unite behind the science. Both climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic require us to listen to experts, to unite behind the science and not play politics people’s lives. This means responding to the challenge at the appropriate scale and treating a crisis like a crisis with the urgency that’s needed…

(Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic…, www.unicef.org, April 2020) We all still have a part to play in combatting both COVID and Climate Change.

Although we are now largely operating indoors and online, we can use this time of confinement to increase our knowledge, bolster our commitment and above all, strengthen our faith and place our trust in God. n —Sis. Sandra Baylis Planet Preservers

"I Am Pursuing My Dreams - No Matter What!" (continued from page 3)

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hen the statewide quarantine was announced, I was finishing my junior year and pledging Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. I had put plans into motion to work with the Congressional Black Caucus, and I was set to attend summer school in Washington D.C. Immediately, I began to realize that my plans were going to be cancelled. At this point, I began to pray for a path to be successful. I was blessed with a way.

I finished this semester with a 4.0 G.P.A. I also crossed the sands to become an Omega Man. This summer, I have spent my time working and preparing for the semester. I have learned through this trying time that the world will not stop for you and why should you stop for it? With prayer, hopefully I can remain healthy and finish this semester with honor by persevering through this crisis.

—Phillip Middleton Senior, Mercer University

I

have been a member of Zion Hill Baptist Church my entire life. My parents Gregg and Jetawn Russell are long-time members of Zion Hill as well as my grandparents,Val Russell and the late Zora Russell. Our current Pastor, Rev. Dr. Aaron Parker, blessed me as a baby at Zion Hill. I developed a passion for music at an early age singing in the Azizi Children’s Choir. Being a part of the Zion Hill Youth Ministry helped strengthened my relationship with God. I learned the importance of going to church.

As I matriculated through elementary and middle schools, I began to pursue my passion for music by playing the trumpet in school bands and starting my own D.J. business. My D.J. career really took off when I entered Westlake High School. It was at Westlake, when I began booking

events all over metro Atlanta as well entertaining at school functions and athletic events. I was also named the Westlake High School band Drum Major and named Mr. Westlake. After graduating from Westlake High School, I accepted a band scholarship to attend Florida A&M University to major in Music Industry.

By God’s grace and mercy, I am an upcoming Senior at Florida A&M University. I am an honor student, a member of the FAMU Marching 100 Band and a D.J. on the Florida A&M University radio station, 90.5-FM. As our country is going through the COVID-19 Global pandemic and recent widespread social injustices, I continuously pray and look to God and my parents for guidance as a young African

C

OVID-19 has brought on many new changes for college students in the world. I had to leave my beloved college, Tennessee State University, and take all of my classes online. Being that this was my freshman year, I was very disappointed that it was abruptly interrupted. Yet, I realized that it was necessary to be safe. The difficulties I experienced was not having face-toface teachings anymore and getting better acclimated with my teachers and classmates on Zoom. I ended up going back home and quarantining, instead of enjoying the campus dorm life, cheerleading and football games, and extracurricular activities. The friendships I gained in the first semester are long lasting, but hopefully they will make it back to campus this coming semester.

“ As our society tries to bridge the gap between the African American community and Law Enforcement, I continue to pray that we all continue to communicate with each other.”

—Ralph Russell/D.J. 23; Senior, Florida A&M University

American male living in today’s society with a D.J. business. As our society tries to bridge the gap between the African American community and Law Enforcement, I continue to pray that we all continue to communicate with each other. My passion and love for music and my love for God has allowed me to succeed in my career while being a full-time college student.

My message to other young aspiring African American entrepreneurs is to continue pursuing your education, always dream big, set personal goals for yourself, find your passion in life and wake up every day aspiring to find God’s purpose for your life.

—Ralph Russell; D.J. 23 Senior, Florida A&M University

Currently, students have the option to go back on campus or stay at home for classes. I am still debating all of the pros and cons of being safe while still taking my classes in the fall. The college is making every effort to make this transition as safe as possible. I am staying focused on my classes to make sure my work is getting done. My contributions is to talk to other college students to encourage them to be very prayerful that this to too will pass and to take away all of our worries. Please pray for me and the other college students while we are trying to persevere and be protective during this difficult time.

—Zahria Austin, Sophomore, Tennessee State University

ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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Join us for virtual services Sunday Worship Service at 9:30 am EDT Wednesday Bible for Life at 7:00 pm EDT

Join us on either of the following live streaming platforms: n

ivestreaming: http://zionhillbaptistchurch.

L yourstreamlive.com/

n

acebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/ F zhbcatl/

n

YouTube: (search for ZHBCATL zionhill)

@zhbcatl

ZHBC zionhill

Is Christ Lord and Savior of your life?

Jesus answered, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 NRSV) Admit your need for Him. “...since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God;” (Romans 3:23 NRSV) Recognize His love for you. “But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.”

(Romans 5:8 NRSV) Place your faith in Jesus and invite Him into your life. “...because if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9 NRSV) Pray a prayer of repentance and faith. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

(Romans 10:13 NRSV)

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 streamimg live on Facebook, YouTube, and at http://zionhillbaptistchurch.yourstreamlive.com/

Series Title:

“Seasonal Change”

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

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Available after streaming as recordings.