APRIL 2025
Celebrating the Decades “A Faith Walk of Sowing, Serving &
THE LIU
(pronounced LEE-UU)
Shepherding”
Sunday, March 2, 2025, Zion Hill celebrated Pastor Aaron L. Parker, PhD and his God chosen soulmate, Mrs. Shelia S. Parker for 31 years of faithful service and visionary leadership inspired only by faith and the guidance of God’s Holy Spirit.
Minister Kathy Kneeland, Celebration Chair, opened the service with gratitude, followed by Deacon Marjorie Young’s heartfelt prayer, thanking God for His continued blessings through Pastor and Mrs. Parker. Sister Tina Wright warmly welcomed all in attendance, setting a spirit of unity and appreciation.
The worship service overflowed with spirit-filled music from the Celebration Choir and a powerful litany led by Deacon David Richardson, affirming Zion Hill’s commitment to:
n Seeking and understanding God’s will for service,
n Pressing forward in faith to fulfill His purpose, and
n Trusting in God’s direction, walking by faith and not by sight.
Sister Jeanette Gist presented the occasion, prompting a standing ovation as she honored Pastor and Mrs. Parker’s unwavering dedication. Citing 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, she emphasized the importance of honoring spiritual leaders. She described Mrs. Parker as a “strong, graceful, intelligent woman of God” and assured her that her sacrifices had not gone unnoticed.
Turning her attention to Pastor Parker, Sister Gist referenced Jeremiah 3:15— “And I will give you pastors after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” She affirmed that Pastor Parker has fulfilled this calling, living out Zion Hill’s motto: “Living to Love and Loving to (continued on page 3
In Appreciation of Your Kindness
IREAP ROLL CALL
New Members | MARCH 2025
Moses Everett, Jr.
Sabrina Everett
Quionna Griffin
Christopher Powell
Gary Ross
Gwynetta Ross
Tonya Sidor
CHURCH FAMILY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS MARCH 2025
Thank Yous
n Dr. Archie and Deaconess Linda Wilson and Family – Bereavement
n CareGivers’Hope, INC. – Donation
I seize this opportunity to express our sincerest gratitude for recognizing us for 31 years of service to the Zion Hill Family. That first Sunday in March provided encouragement and inspiration for us to continue a little while longer in seeking to fulfill the mission to which we believe God has graciously called us in this season. We acknowledge every single and corporate expression of kindness that you have shown, not only on that special day, but also during several days that followed. Although it does not adequately convey the deep sentiment that we feel in response to your considerate deeds, we say thank you from the depths of our hearts. We remain “Living to Love and Loving to Serve.”
Pastor and First Lady Parker Larry, Asha and Laila
A Brief Reminder
Please, plan to be present for Passion Week and Resurrection Sunday services as we recognize the tremendous sacrifice and triumphant rising of our liberating leader, Jesus the Christ:
n Palm Sunday – 4/13/2025 – 9:30 am
n Bible for Life (Passion Week Edition) – Wednesday, 4/16/2025 – 7:00 pm
n Good Friday (Morehouse College students) – 4/18/2025 – 7:00 pm
n Easter Egg Hunt – Saturday, 4/19/2025 – 12 noon
n Resurrection Sunday
n Sunrise Service – 7:00 am
n Youth and Children’s Easter Program – 8:30 am
n Morning Worship – 9:30 am
Do your best to attend as many of these services as you can. We are confident in faith that God has a special blessing for you in each of them. n
Pastor Parker
“Celebrating the Decades” (continued from page 1)
Serve.” With heartfelt words, she expressed gratitude for his counsel, prayers, and unwavering commitment, recalling moments when he comforted grieving families, visited the sick, and supported congregants in times of crisis—all while maintaining a full-time role at Morehouse College. Sister Gist closed with a direct message “I can almost say with certainty, you have heard many times, “We love you, we appreciate you, but today I would like to add that we see you. We see your dedication, compassion, tolerance, selflessness, and sacrifice. We thank you for all that you do.”
The Sounds of Sankofa, special edition provided undeniable examples of Pastor and Mrs. Parker’s steadfast commitment to building strong and committed Christian youth in the children and youth ministry. Members of the Youth and Children’s Min-
istry expressed their love and appreciation for Pastor and Mrs. Parker’s impact by acknowledging their tremendous influence on ministries growth during their 31 years of service.
The celebration continued with three Zion Hill Ministers focusing on the three tenets of the program’s theme, Celebrating the Decades “A Faith Walk of Sowing, Serving & Shepherding.”
n Reverend John Jackson reminisced on Zion Hill’s early days, likening Pastor Parker to the Sower in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, planting seeds of faith that continue to flourish. As he humorously stated to Pastor Parker, "With all due respect, like the Sower in the parable, you are a dirt dealer, and the entire congregation is complicit.”
n Reverend Brenton Cox shared a personal moment from the Hampton Minister’s Conference, recalling how Pastor Parker’s name was praised among the nation’s most revered preachers. As Reverend Cox described it, they called Pastor Parker the “king of alliteration.”
n Reverend Galetha Thompson highlighted Pastor Parker’s servant heart. To emphasize her point, she referred to a quote from Social Activist Mahatma Gandhi suggesting “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Reverend Thompson continued by describing Moses’ challenges in the wilderness and God’s answer to Moses. God proclaimed to Moses to appoint seventy spirit (continued on page 4)
“Celebrating the Decades” (continued
filled leaders to “help him carry the spiritual load.” Reverend Thompson acknowledged that God knew Pastor Parker couldn’t serve in the Kingdom of God alone so in addition to Mrs. Parker, God sent assistance through over 50+ ministries, the appointment of several leaders, the support of preachers, deacons, and trustees and 4,565 folks in the congregation who are charged to serve the people.
n Reverend K. LaMarr Jones concluded the tributes by celebrating Pastor Parker as a faithful shepherd, paralleling his leadership with John
21:17, where Christ commands Peter to “feed my sheep.” Additionally, he declared, “How fortunate we are at Zion Hill to have a Pastor in Aaron L. Parker and his wife Mrs. Shelia Parker faithfully serving God’s people for 31 years. “We honor you Pastor Parker for being a faithful shepherd. We honor you, Mrs. Parker for God’s anointing on your life to share in life and ministry with Pastor.” If you are questioning how Pastor Parker and Mrs. Parker faithfully serve even in the face of challenges, Reverend Jones answered simply but powerfully, “because they love the Lord.”
Celebration Chair Minister Kneeland thanked all who contributed, while Deacons Ministry Chair Tantalous Smith affirmed the congregation’s deep love and appreciation.
Finally, Mrs. Parker expressed gratitude for the congregation’s support, declaring, “This has been a divine service, and I praise God.” Pastor Parker humbly acknowledged, “I know the real reason I’m here—it’s not because I deserve it, but because of God’s grace and mercy.” He reminded Zion Hill that their journey is not about any one person or group, but ultimately about God. n
—Sis. Felecia Church
SIS Ministry 2025 Faith Boost Vision Board Reflections
In the age of goal setting seminars and vision boards, Christians have likely heard some paraphrase of Habakkuk 2:2: “Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he/she may run that readeth it.” Many reference this Scripture as part of conversations around the importance of writing down one’s goals and dreams. With this in mind, the Sisters in Sync (SIS) dedicated the March 2025 meeting as our 2025 Faith Boost vision board meeting.
The SIS Ministry of Zion Hill Baptist Church gathered with a warm welcome from SISter Tina Wright, president of SIS, followed by a prayer from Rev. Galetha Thompson. She alluded to Proverbs 29:18: “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
The SISters then took to thinking about their Faith Boost Vision. The evening was spent with SISters looking at pictures,
phrases, and captions that reflect their “Faith Boost” vision for 2025. The SISters began creating their vision boards. As the SISters worked, soft inspirational music was enjoyed during the evening. As the hour drew near, several SISters began sharing their vision boards of hopes, dreams, and goals. Each board captured the individual’s personal “Faith Boost” vision.
Deacon Reda Pierre
Pictures were taken and SISters with January, February and March birthdays gathered so they could be celebrated with singing and light refreshments. The evening closed in prayer by Dea. Reda Pierre. Overall, the SISters were uplifted with a “Faith Boost” to look forward with positive visions.
SISter Jean Bell
“This was a relaxing and fun experience as we worked individually on our 2025
“Faith Boost” vision boards. After completing, each SISter shared their board. Many spoke of desires to travel, strengthen family ties and self-care. Although there were various desires, one similarity of all the visions was continuing to work on our faith, and our relationship with the Lord. Truly, we are SISters in Sync.”
SISter Sandi Abbo
“The SIS Ministry’s Vision Board night was my very first time with such. It caused me to focus on what I want and need in my life, as opposed to what I want for someone else’s life. Self-awareness is essential for self-care. The SISterly fellowship was awesome. To hear what the other women targeted for their boards was enlightening.”
SIS Bradis Jimmerson
“Participating in the making of my vision board was a way to prioritize some of my
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Happy Retirement John Brown!
Saturday, March 15th we celebrated the retirement of Brother John Brown as Facility Manager. Thank you Brother John Brown for your years of dedicated service. Happy Retirement!
“vision
board reflections”
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thoughts. I separated my vision board into sections. When I was creating my board, I placed Jesus in the center to symbolize the importance of God, who is the center of my life and everything else just revolves around that. I had other topics such as Family, Home, Work and Travel. I've always believed, if you write it down or place it on a board, you focus better on your goals. With the other SISters around, it provided an atmosphere of oneness. I enjoyed it!”
SISter Michelle Allen
“I had a fabulous time working on my Faith Boost vision board with the SIS Ministry. This was such a compelling and spiritual experience because it
required me to deeply and candidly reflect on what I am presently doing in my life and what I feel God wants me to do. Just like vision boards are a work in progress, so are we. I was reminded that We are walking by faith not by sight, so it was very important to focus on God and seek God’s will with identifying personal goals and commit to staying close to Him to accomplish them. It was gratifying to be in a loving space where we could share our goals and experiences while encouraging each other.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Thanks SISter Tina for your leadership and this wonderful vision board idea. I am
truly blessed to be a part of this Ministry and what it represents. I look forward to our next opportunity to come together, in God’s grace.”
SISter Tina Wright
“After reading the reflections from the attendees of the 2025 “Faith Boost” vision board meeting, it gave me confirmation on one aspect of my personal vision board coming to fruition. The fact that I have a vision of God using me as servant of his will; the words shared of the experience from the vision board meeting says just that. I am thankful for God continuing to work in my life and the lives of my SISters. We are SISters in Sync.”
SiS Ministry
Living the Golden Rule Through Compassionate Service
On Sunday, March 30th, we observed Outreach Ministry Day under the theme: “Greater Faith, Greater Work.” Pastor Parker admonished us to reflect deeply on the words of Jesus found in Matthew 7:12: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." This foundational truth, often called the Golden Rule, is more than a moral teaching — it is a mandate for divine empathy, radical kindness, and justice in action.
We gathered not only to worship, but to celebrate and honor those who are living out this commandment through selfless service — agencies like Flowing with Bless-
ings, Carrie Steele-Pitts Home, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision Rehabilitation, and Safe Haven Total Restoration. Each of these organizations represents the heart of Christ extended to those society often overlooks.
Outreach Ministry Day also presented an invitation to ask ourselves soul-stirring questions: How would I want to be treated if I were hungry? With dignity. If I were thirsty? With compassion. If I were unhoused or sick or forgotten behind prison bars? I would want to know that someone still sees me — not as a problem to be solved, but a person to be loved.
Jesus pushes us to look at the world
through the eyes of the vulnerable — not from a position of pity, but from solidarity with the least of these. When we treat others as we would want to be treated, we honor their humanity and affirm their sacred worth.
If I lacked understanding, I would want others to be patient with me. If I lacked love, I would long for someone to listen, to reach out, to remind me I am still worthy of care. And if I lacked resources, I would expect — yes, expect — those with abundance to not only share but advocate for equity, justice, and transformation.
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SIS Women’s Ministry Honors Elders at Summerset Assisted Living
On February 18, 2025, the Sisters In Sync (SIS) Women’s Ministry visited Summerset Assisted Living to honor the elders with love and quality time. An African proverb reminds us,
“Those who respect the elderly pave their own road toward success.” A Greek proverb echoes this sentiment: “A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade
they know they shall never sit.” Likewise, Exodus 20:12 teaches, “Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.”
During our visit, the SIS Ministry shared a Black History Moment with the Summerset family, sparking meaningful conversations and cherished memories.
Then came the highlight of the afternoon—B-I-N-G-O! The SIS women arrived in high spirits, bringing laughter, joy, and prizes for the winners. Numbers were called out with excitement as residents eagerly searched their cards, cheering when they marked a match. Playful banter and friendly teasing filled the room, and the laughter was so infectious that passersby couldn’t resist stepping in to see the fun firsthand!
The SIS women assisted residents who needed help, ensuring everyone could participate. The winners were rewarded with scriptural notepads and a special snack. Before we knew it, our hour of fellowship had come to an end—but the joy we shared lingered.
Join Us in Honoring Our Elders
Zion Hill family let’s not forget our elders. The SIS Ministry is committed to quarterly visits with our Summerset family, and we invite you to join us! SIS President, Tina Wright, will send out reminder emails and texts.
Remember, love is best when shared. If you want to boost your faith, put it into action!
Thank you for taking a moment to SIP with SIS. n
“The Heart Matters”
This is an opportunity to focus on heart health, a vital aspect of our overall well-being. Our heart is not only the engine of our physical bodies, but a symbol of our inner life. Scriptures remind us, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” (1 Corinthians 6:1920). This verse inspires us to honor our bodies with healthy choices.
First, let’s consider statistical data about heart attacks in 2024. In the United States, there are about 650,000 new heart attacks and 200,000 recurrent heart attacks each year. The average age for a first heart attack is 65.6 years for men and 72.0 years for women. About one in five heart attacks are silent, meaning the person does not experience symptoms. Also, there are 2,552 deaths from total cardiovascular disease each day.
Here are some interesting facts about the heart:
1. The average heart is the size of your fist.
2. It weighs approximately 1 pound (lb.).
3. It beats 60-100 times per minute.
4. It pumps 5 quarts of blood per minute, 1800 gallons/day.
5. It has its own electrical system (rhythm).
6. It is a muscle.
7. It requires certain nutrients to function normally.
8. If you are nutrient deficient then the heart starts to show signs of "cardio distress.” Always remember, "the Heart eats first." This phrase means that the heart receives blood supply first and foremost. The coronary arteries that feed the heart also ensure that it must get necessary oxygen and nutrients before blood can be distributed to the rest of the body.
Secondly, to diagnose or have an idea of your cardiovascular (heart) health, the following lab markers should be considered:
1. High Sensitivity – C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
2. Homocysteine
3. Fibrinogen
4. Oxidized LDL (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol)
5. Glucose
6. HA1C – (Hemoglobin A1c)
7. Lipid panel
8. Thyroid panel
9. Particle size testing
10. APO B: APO A ratio (Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A)
11. Coronary Calcium scan (CAC scan)
Thirdly, according to the American Society for Nutrition, dietary and supplementation can help with maintaining a healthy heart. It is suggested to consume fish (fatty fish such as Cod, Salmon, Sardines or Halibut) twice a week. Eat a diet high in fiber (fruits/vegetables) and reduce sugar, alcohol and refined carbohydrates. In addition, to help increase the microcirculation of the heart, try to consume a few of these foods in your diet:
1. Berries – 3-4 oz day
2. Dark Cocoa – more than 90%, 0.7 ounces per day
3. Garlic – 1-2 fresh cloves (crushed, slightly boiled)
4. Beets (as juice) of supplement
5. Green tea – 2 cups per day
The Applied Clinical Nutritionist Association suggests specific supplements:
1. Magnesium and Calcium Lactate
2. B-Complex (whole B complex)
3. COQ10
4. Vitamin E and K2
5. Omega 3
In conclusion, let’s commit to loving and caring for our hearts. Embracing a hearthealthy lifestyle through nourishing foods, regular movement, stress reduction and spiritual practices is an act of gratitude for the gift of life. n
– Sis. Chantaye Evans-Carhee, D.C., ACN, CFMP
References:
(1) Tsao CW, Aday AW, AlmarzooqZ1, et al. heart disease and stroke statistics-2022-2024 update; A report from the American Heart Association Circulation: 2022: 145(8): e153-3639. PubMed
(2) Smith, J.A.; & Brown, L.M. (2022) A review of the evidence: Omega-3 fatty acids &Cardiovascular health. Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine 15(3), 123-1349
(3) National Institutes of Health State-of-the Science Panel. National Institutes of Health State-of-the-Science Conference Statement: Multivitamin/mineral supplements and chronic disease prevention. Am J Clin Nutrition 2007; 85: 257S-264S. PubMed
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
Communication Coordinator
The Communication Coordinator is responsible for the development and implementation of Zion Hill Baptist Church’s (ZHBC) communication strategies and works toward enhancing the church’s public image. The position develops materials and interacts with members and external clients to deliver Zion Hill's messages to the public. The coordinator contributes to the development of publications and websites, facilitates marketing campaigns, schedules meetings, and creates timelines. Graphic design experience is a plus.
Office Assistant
The Office Assistant will support the ministry goals of Zion Hill Baptist Church through efficient assistance with church office operations and outstanding administrative support. The office assistant is responsible for assisting in answering telephones, creating copies, coordinating meetings, entering data, and handling other clerical tasks.
Facility Manager
The Facility Manager will support the ministry goals of Zion Hill Baptist Church 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. The Facility Manager will manage a staff of employees, contractors and volunteers in the maintenance and setup of buildings, grounds, systems, etc. to ensure the efficient and safe maintenance of the church and all Zion Hill properties. They are also responsible for developing, proposing, and managing the approved facilities maintenance budget. For additional details about any of the announcements, please call the church office 404.691.8025 or email zhbc@zionhill.org.
That’s what Outreach Ministry is all about — closing the gap between the comfortable and the suffering, the haves and the have-nots, the seen and the unseen. This year, we were blessed by a pow-
erful word from Reverend Ashlyn Strozier, PhD, who preached a stirring message entitled “The Lessons from a Bag Lady.” Sermonically, she reminded us that even those who’ve been labeled, marginalized,
or written off still have purpose, still have power, and still have something to teach us. Her message challenged us to listen closely to those we’re quick to judge — because transformation often comes from unexpected places. Reverend Strozier also reminded us that while we strive to meet the spiritual needs of those we serve, we must not overlook their immediate physical needs — the hunger, hurt, and hardship they carry each day.
Today, let us carry the spirit of Matthew 7:12 in our hearts — not just as Scripture to recite, but as a lifestyle to embody. Let us partner with our outreach agencies, not just in appreciation, but in participation. Let this Outreach Ministry Day not end with applause, but with action. Let us do so in the spirit of Zion Hill’s motto: “Living to Love and Loving to Serve,” which we live out when we become the hands and feet of God — responding to need with love, lifting the fallen, feeding the hungry, and restoring the broken. n
Rev. Kevin Jackson
National Child Abuse Prevention Month
“Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.” Psalm127:3, NLT.
During the month of April, our country recognizes National Child Abuse Prevention Month to raise awareness about protecting children against abuse and neglect.
At Zion Hill, we take steps year-round to protect our precious children and keep them safe through the implementation of our Youth and Children Protection Policy and educational efforts. Learn more about how we love and safeguard our children by participating in one of our monthly Darkness to Light Child Protection training classes, a requirement to serve as a volunteer with our youth and children in any capacity.
The next Darkness to Light class is scheduled for Saturday, April 12th, from 8:45 AM – 12:15 PM. Please contact the church office at zhbc@zionhill.org or 404-691-8025 for advance registration or to find out more about the class.
Please scan the QR code and learn what you need to know about Zion Hill’s Youth and Children Protection Policy!
CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS
Noon Day Bible Study: Wednesdays at 12:00 pm, in-person only, Fellowship Hall. Bible study is IN RECESS until April 2nd.
S.O.L.L.A.S Traditional Bible Study: Wednesdays at 12:00 pm in the Executive Conference Room 109 within the Love Center. Zoom Link: https://zhbc.pub/ sollasbiblestudy. S.O.L.L.A.S. Traditional bible study is IN RECESS, until April 2nd.
Bible for Life: Join Pastor Parker in the Sanctuary on Wednesdays at 7 pm for our weekly “Faith Boost” bible study in-person and virtual at either of the following links:
n Boxcast: https://zhbc.pub/boxcast
n Facebook: https://zhbc.pub/facebook
n YouTube: https://zhbc.pub/youtube
JOY for Life Ministry: This Ministry is specially designed to engage seniors 55+ in classes and activities that promote good physical, mental and spiritual health. JOY for Life is IN RECESS from Monday, March 24 – Thursday, March 27. The program will resume April 1st.
Sign Language Ministry: This ministry meeting/class will take place in the Love Center on Saturdays at 11:00 am inperson or at the following link: https:// us06web.zoom.us/j/81528276967 Meeting ID: 815 2827 6967 - Passcode: 616440
Call for Media Ministry (Audio/Visual)
Volunteers: Do you have an interest in Audio or Video services? Are you technically savvy and creative? If so,
the Media Ministry (Audio/Visual) needs your gifts, talents, and commitment for Christian service at Zion Hill! To volunteer or find out more information, please send your name and contact information to the church office at zhbc@zionhill. org. Youth volunteers 16 years and older with parental permission are welcome to participate.
C.COM Connecting Community Online Ministry:
This ministry is designed for our brothers and sisters who are primarily online and for those who are unable to attend inperson worship service. To learn more about the ministry, please send an email to c.com@zionhill.org
Ministry Leader: Reverend Tiffani Douglas
Campus Safety Protocol: For everyone’s safety, pedestrians are not permitted on the parking deck ramp. Please use the stairs when walking to and from the top level of the parking deck.
CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS
APRIL CALENDAR
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 “Faith Boost”
BIBLE for LIFE
(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.