The LIU – April 2025

APRIL2026

A newsletter of Zion Hill Baptist Church

THE LIU

(pronounced LEE-UU)

A DocuMusical Event

THE GOSPEL RESURRECTION:

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n true Zion Hill fashion, Palm Sunday was a celebration like no other. “The Gospel Resurrection: A Docu‑Musical Event” presented by the Zion Hill Drama Ministry, was created and directed by Min‑ ister A. Faye Adams‑Taylor with Brother Fred Bryan as Musical Director.

The production traced the evolution of Black Gospel Music—from the cotton fields to the modern age—highlighting eras such as Thomas Dorsey, the Civil Rights Movement, Quartet and Female Groups, James Cleveland, Mass Choir

traditions, Modern Gospel, and Contem‑ porary Gospel. Through dramatization and song, the congregation experienced Gospel Music’s legacy and its powerful influence on faith and culture.

The service opened with a welcome from young Master Maverick Gibson, followed by Minister Adams‑Taylor’s reminder of Palm Sunday’s significance and the beginning of Holy Week. Minister Navion Stephens offered a heartfelt prayer, asking Jesus to reveal Himself throughout the presentation.

The choir’s processional of “Take Me Back” set the tone, inviting the congrega‑ tion on a musical journey through beloved Gospel classics. From Negro Spirituals to Contemporary Gospel, each selection reflected the resilience, hope, and praise that have carried generations.

Members and visitors were moved to their feet as the presentation honored both the struggles and triumphs of our shared history. A job well done, Minister Adams‑Taylor. n –Sis. Mary Gilliam

Making an Evangelistic Move

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hen was the last time you made an evangelistic move? By evangelistic move I mean an intentional, premeditated effort to bring someone into the family

of God in Christ Jesus. Such activity properly begins with self-reflection on one’s own relationship with God, including focus not only on one’s initial time of belief (conversion), but also on one’s ongoing interaction with the kind and gracious God who faithfully supplies your needs. As one goes forth to convince others of the goodness of the Creator, keeping these crucial factors in mind provides both a foundation for and guide to how one approaches others. That is, evangelism first involves asking question like: “What brought me into the household of the Redeemer?

How did I get started on this Christian journey? Why do I continue in this blessed way, trusting the Savior to see me through any challenges life places before me?”

To this primary step, one should add prayer. Praying before and during the effort to evangelize centers the activity in the proper place – connecting with God. After all, that is precisely the goal of evangelism – assisting another in getting connected with the Savior. This prayer time should not only include requests to say the right words, but also, and more importantly, petitions to be genuine. Genuineness, no matter how

REAP ROLL CALL

New Members | MAR 2026 Connor Core

Debra Hodge Crysta Jones

Dr. Vaughnette Jones Loretta Lee

crude or awkward, tends to draw more people than any precise, well-crafted words devoid of authenticity. Remember, God saved the real you, and it is that “real you” that should be presented to others. One should also pray for such virtues as courage, patience, stamina, etc., for sometimes the fear of rejection and rejection itself causes extended hesitation, frustration, exhaustion, and even spiritual paralysis.

Finally, making an evangelistic move includes just doing it, not waiting until you feel totally comfortable, or completely confident, or thoroughly knowledgeable, but going forth, even with some discomfort and feelings of inadequacy, believing firmly the words attributed to Jesus in Matthew 10 that say, “…do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you at that time; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (19-20) When was the last time you made an evangelistic move? The world in this crucial

Brent Lowe

season, gravely overshadowed by ominous mountains of greed, deception, injustice,

Michelle Santana

death, needs to hear the good news of God in Jesus the Christ – news of recovery,

Jaylen Nolan

and corruption, which result in perilous valleys of poverty, confusion, oppression and

Sam Williams

freedom, justice, peace, joy and, of course the greatest of these, love. n

—Pastor Parker

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The Gospel Resurrection (continued from page 1)

ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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Crucifixion Commentary

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orshippers received empowering messages from God during Zion Hill’s Good Friday service as young min‑ isters from the Atlanta University Center emphasized their commitment to faithfully following Christ.

Minister Jyhir Jordan declared that the initial questions before the crucifixion were for believers. What does it mean to

what was involved with being the Messiah.

He endured mockery, the brutality of the whip, and carrying His cross, which served as a mirror to lynching.

Minister Elijah G. S. Gatling declared that when Jesus cried out on the cross, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me,” his words resonate with people today experiencing pain and isolation.

Minister Marquese Dukes-Samuel echoed Young ministers from the Atlanta University Center lifted their voices the late Congressman with passion and purpose. Their witness reflected a steadfast John Lewis, “When you commitment to faithfully following Christ. see something wrong, do follow Christ and remain faithful when He Jesus’ Crucifixion to racial terror. something. Get in “good trouble.” As an no longer appears powerful, but fragile?

Minister Pierce Nabors asked how example, the Centurion moved from the Minister Sydney Wilson asked, if you much can you handle? He described the wrong side of history to the right side by saw or heard something you knew to be mockery, insults, physical, and mental declaring that Jesus was the Son of God. wrong, would you step back? She declared abuse suffered by Jesus. How did Jesus take To hear the entire messages, visit that Pilate stepped back and washed his it? He stood strong with love!

BoxCast, YouTube, or Facebook. n hands of Christ’s crucifixion. Her admo‑ Minister Shaniya Curtis described –Sis. Felecia Church

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nition, “you can’t step back and wash your hands of wrong.”

Minister Clarence Fambro empha‑ sized the necessity of Christ shedding His blood as the only means of redemption.

Minister Linden Young described Je‑ sus as no ordinary prisoner. His cross con‑ tained his name, hometown of Nazareth, and his title King of the Jews. He compared

A Week of Worship and Witness:

Reflections from Holy Week

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he Easter celebration was a powerful and uplifting experience, bringing together individuals and families for a memorable time of fellowship and worship. Pastor Parker took us on a journey of Jesus’ experience in the Garden of Gethsemane during a Special Bible for Life setting the tone for Holy Week with a meaningful reflection on sacrifice, prayer, and obedience.

The festivities continued with a joyful Easter Egg Hunt, where children and families shared fun and excitement as children and youth dashed to various areas of the church yard in search of eggs.

As the sun rose Sunday Morning, attendees gathered for a meaningful Sunrise Service at 7:00 a.m., where Pastor Parker delivered the message, “Getting

the Message” from Matthew 28:1–8, reminding all of the urgency and power of the resurrection story.

The celebration also featured the Easter Program, “GOOD News,” highlighted by an excellent presentation from the youth. Through their creativity and passion, they shared a compelling message of hope, love, and redemption.

The celebration culminated in the 9:30 a.m. Resurrection Service, where Pastor Parker preached “The Failed Cover-up” from Matthew 28:11–15. The service was marked by a high time of praise and a wonderful worship experience, filled with spirit-led music and a powerful Word. All who attended were left renewed and rejoicing in the truth and victory of the risen Savior.

–Sis. Michelle Phalo

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A Week of Worship and Witness: Reflections from Holy Week

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ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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A Week of Worship and Witness: Reflections from Holy Week

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ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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A Sensational Sunday at Zion Hill

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unday, March 22, was truly a sensa‑ tional day at Zion Hill Baptist Church.

The worship experience was filled with inspiration, excellence, and celebration as the Clark Atlanta University Philharmon‑ ic Society lifted hearts in song alongside Education Thru Dance, the award-winning professional dance company from Mable‑ ton, Georgia.

The service beautifully honored women during Women’s History Month, and fittingly, both featured groups were led by phenomenal women: Garnetta Penn, Director of the Philharmonic Society, and Chan'nel Johnson, Director of Education

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Thru Dance. Their leadership and artistry added a powerful layer of meaning to the day’s celebration.

Education Thru Dance offered a mov‑ ing performance to Imagine Me by Kirk Franklin, while the Philharmonic Society blessed the congregation with a rich blend of spirituals and classic gospel selections.

Centered around the theme, “Made to Make a Difference,” drawn from Psalm 139:13–14 (NRSV), the service reminded everyone of God’s intentional design and purpose for every life. Throughout the worship experience, the youth highlight‑ ed influential women in the Bible, and

during the Sounds of Sankofa moment, the congregation reflected on the legacy of Dorothy Height, one of the great pillars of Black history and women’s leadership.

To crown an already unforgettable service, our pastor, Dr. Aaron L. Parker, preached a powerful message entitled “The Examination of the Self,” based on Mat‑ thew 26:20–22, challenging us all to look inward and faithfully examine our hearts.

It was indeed a day of worship, reflec‑ tion, and celebration, one that reminded us all that we are truly made to make a difference. n –Rev. Brenton Cox

Zion Hill Celebrates Annual Outreach Ministry Day

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ion Hill Baptist Church’s Annual Outreach Ministry Day was a pow‑ erful and heartfelt service focused on testimonies and reflection. Outreach partners shared how Zion Hill continues to uplift and serve communities across Metro Atlanta.

Representatives from several partner organizations offered moving stories high‑ lighting the impact of their collaborative work with Zion Hill, including: n Southwest Christian Care (Hope House) n CareGivers HOPE, Inc. n Safe Haven Total Restoration Ministries n Thrive, Inc. / ChaRM to Recycle n Flowing with Blessings, Inc. At the close of 2025, tithes and offerings benefited six charitable organizations, with each receiving $1,337.49 through the Zion Hill Outreach Ministry. This contribution represents only a portion of the funds distributed annually, as Zion Hill remains committed to supporting educational organizations and responding to the needs of local, national, and international com‑ munities impacted by natural disasters.

Throughout the year, Zion Hill’s outreach dollars also help address critical health, food, and housing needs for men, women, and children.

A highlight of the service was the pre‑ sentation of the 2026 Outreach Ministry Award by Sister Mary Gaines and Deacon Thomas Williams to Women at the Well Transition Center and its founder, Bishop Donna Hubbard.

Women at the Well is a Christ-centered nonprofit dedicated to helping women heal from trauma and rebuild their lives. The or‑ ganization focuses on supporting survivors of human and sex trafficking, particularly those who have also been involved in the criminal justice system. Founded in 1994, the center provides a wide range of services, including trauma-informed care, life skills training, case management, advocacy, and reentry support.

These programs empower women to reconnect with their families, regain stability, and move forward with dignity and purpose.

While accepting the award, Bishop Donna Hubbard shared a deeply personal

reflection, speaking about overcoming tre‑ mendous challenges and recalling a time when she did not believe she would still be alive. She expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting that simply being alive and able to breathe is a blessing.

Deacon Thomas Williams presented Bishop Hubbard and the organization with a commemorative plaque along with a $2,000 donation.

The service was further enriched by a soul-stirring message delivered by Reverend Dr. Khalia J. Williams, based on Nehemiah 2:17–18, entitled “Let’s Start Building.” Her message encouraged the congregation to actively engage in the work of rebuilding lives and communities through faith, unity, and service.

The program concluded with remarks from Pastor Parker, who thanked the Out‑ reach Ministry Team for their dedication and service. He also reminded attendees of the importance of outreach work, stating, “This is what God calls us to do in this moment.” n –Sis. Felecia Church and Brother Doyal Siddell ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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What Your Medication Doesn’t Tell You

“Prayer and Preparation for GOOD Health,” (3 John 1:2)

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ypically, when we take medications, the label tells us how to take it and the unfortunate risks that come after taking the medication.

Contrarily, there are far more important things that your medication does not tell you. Your medication does not tell you that certain medications are less effective for certain ethnic groups over others. This is known as Pharmacogenomics which explores how genetic DNA influences the rate and extent to which a medication absorbs and circulates in your body to produce a desired effect. This is critical in determining the right medication in order to prevent drug levels from reaching points that quietly place strains on major organs as well as understanding outcomes associated with the African American community.

According to guidance from the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association

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(ACC/AHA), certain blood pressure medications may not lower blood pressure in many African American patients compared to other ethnicities (Whelton et al., 2017). These findings do not mean

same health outcome.

You should feel inclined to ask questions about the medications you take. Your prescription label may tell you when to take your medicine, but it does not always tell you how your

You should feel inclined to ask questions about the medications you take. Your prescription label may tell you when to take your medicine, but it does not always tell you how your body may respond to medications over time. medications are unsuccessful.

However, emphasis is given on the importance of personalized medicine (coordinating the right medication for the right patient based on genetics, physiology, and health history).

Pharmacogenetics helps healthcare providers understand why one treatment works well for one person versus others and encourages the use of different approaches to achieve the

body may respond to medications over time. Doing your research, asking questions during your appointments, and understanding how medications work in your body can help you make the best decision about your health. Healthcare is a collaborative effort. Although your physician diagnoses and prescribes treatment, pharmacists are the medication experts that translate that prescription

into realistic care by reviewing the usefulness, drug interactions, and helping you understand other important health outcomes.

Together, you, the physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals should create SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timebound goals that focus on measurable modifications regarding your health.

Some medications where differences have been observed among African Americans are: n

n

isinopril (ACE inhibitor) – Often L less effective as a single therapy for hypertension in many African American patients compared with medication classes called thiazide diuretics or calcium channel blockers. etoprolol (beta blocker) – May M produce less significant blood pressure decrease when used alone in African American populations.

n

etformin (diabetes medication) M – Considered a first line treatment in type 2 diabetes research shows higher outcomes of prostate cancer risk in African American men compared to white males where it is described as protective.

The National Institutes of Health Pharmacogenomics Research Network and the ACC/AHA Hypertension Guidelines stress the importance of seeing genetic responses when deciding on treatment plans. Ultimately, this message is not to discourage treatment, but to inspire knowledge and partnership for your health. Seek guidance from all healthcare professionals so that your treatment plan reflects what works best for you, through collaboration between you, your physician, pharmacist, and healthcare team. Deliverance is often spoken of in spiritual terms however, it can also mean freedom from preventable disease, health inequalities, and lack

of knowledge regarding your health.

Faith + knowledge + collaboration = great opportunities not just for healing but true deliverance in our communities. n –Sis. Kendra Bolton References National Human Genome Research Institute.

Pharmacogenomics. National Institutes of Health, www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/ Pharmacogenomics. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

National Institutes of Health.

Pharmacogenomics Research Network. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.pgrn.org. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

Ramamoorthy, Aarthi, et al. “Racial Differences in Drug Disposition and Response: Review of Recently Approved Drugs.” Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, vol. 97, no. 3, 2015, pp. 263–273.

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version.

Updated Edition, Friendship Press, 2025.

Whelton, Paul K., et al. “2017 ACC/AHA/AAPA/ ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/ PCNA Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults.” Journal of the American College of Cardiology, vol. 71, no. 19, 2018, pp. e127–e248.

ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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Sign Interpretation Ministry: This ministry meeting/class will take place in the Love Center on Saturday at 11:00am in-person or via Zoom

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Every Sunday following worship service.

Join the Prayer Ministry in the Chapel following worship service if you would like prayer.

ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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Child Abuse Prevention Month: Keeping Our Children Safe

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pril is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to remind every adult that protecting children begins with awareness, connection, and action. The CDC states that “safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments are important to preventing child abuse and neglect.”

This affirms the responsibility we all share in creating spaces where children feel protected, valued, and heard.

At Zion Hill Baptist Church, child safety remains a sacred priority. Under the umbrella of keeping all children safe, we offer Darkness to Light’s Stewards of Children child sexual abuse prevention training every month to equip adults with the knowledge to recognize, prevent, and appropriately respond to abuse concerns. In addition, our Youth & Children’s Policy is actively followed, regularly reviewed, and updated to ensure we continue providing a safe, nurturing, and accountable environment for

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every child entrusted to our care.

By staying informed, supporting families, teaching healthy boundaries, and remaining vigilant, we help build a church and community where children can grow, thrive, and remain safe. With that in mind, here are three important actions and warning signs every adult should know: n N otice behavior changes – sudden

fear, withdrawal, aggression, or a drop in school performance.

n W atch for warning signs –

unexplained bruises, poor hygiene, exhaustion, or fear around certain adults. n B e a safe adult – listen, create space for children to talk, and report concerns early. n — Rev. Brenton W. Cox Youth & Children’s Ministry Director Zion Hill Youth and Children Protection Policy

Visit Us Online! Stay connected with Zion Hill Baptist Church by visiting our website at www.zionhill.org. Explore upcoming events, worship schedules, ministry opportunities, and more as we continue Living to Love and Loving to Serve!

ZHBC@zionhill.org |

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CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS JOY for Life Ministry: The Seniors Ministry has weekly classes/activities Monday – Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Love Center. This Ministry is designed to engage seniors 55+ with classes and activities that promote good physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Seniors in Tech Computer Class: The JOY for Life Ministry will have a weekly computer class every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in Room 109.

Noon Day Bible Study: Join Noon Day Bible Study, in-person only, on Wednesday, 12:00 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall.

S.O.L.L.A.S. Traditional Bible Class: Wednesday at 12:00 p.m. – Join us in the Executive Conference Room 109 or via Zoom.

Bible for Life and Worship Service: Join Pastor Parker in the Fellowship Hall on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

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for our weekly Bible for Life, and on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary for Worship Service, both in-person and virtually, as we move forward in our 2026 theme, “G.O.O.D.!

– Great Opportunities of Deliverance.”

You can virtually experience Zion Hill at either of the following links: n YouTube: ZHBCATL zionhill @ ZHBCATLzionhill n Boxcast: WORSHIP | Zion Hill Baptist Church n Facebook: @zhbcatl, https://www. facebook.com/zhbcatl/ Sign Language Ministry: This ministry meeting/class will take place in the Love Center on Saturday at 11:00 am in-person or via Zoom Prayer Ministry: Every Sunday following worship service.

Location: Chapel Details: Join the Prayer Ministry in the Chapel following worship service if you would like prayer.

Employment Opportunities We ask that all interested candidates email us for the full job description and/or submit résumés to employment@zionhill.org.

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 answering telephones, creating copies, coordinating meetings, entering data, and handling other clerical tasks.

For additional details about any of the announcements, please call the church office at 404.691.8025 or email zhbc@zionhill.org.

APRIL CALENDAR

1

Wednesday

Noon Day Bible Class, in-person only (In RECESS)

12:00 pm

1

Wednesday

SOLLAS Noon Day Bible Class, in-person and virtual

12:00 pm

1

Wednesday

Bible for Life, in-person and virtual

7:00 pm

2

Friday

Good Friday Service, in-person and virtual

7:00 pm

4

Saturday

Easter Egg Hunt,

12 noon

5

Sunday

Observance of the Lord’s Supper, in-person and virtual

7:00 am / 9:30 am

5 Sunday

Sunrise Worship Service Youth and Children’s Easter Program, Resurrection Sunday Worship

7:00 am 8:30 am 9:30 am

5

Sunday

L. H. Williams Educational Fund and Other Scholarship available

8

Wednesday

Noon Day Bible Class, in-person only

12:00 pm

8

Wednesday

SOLLAS Noon Day Bible Class, in-person and virtual

12:00 pm

8

Wednesday

Bible for Life, in-person and virtual

7:00 pm

12

Sunday

Worship Service, in-person and virtual

9:30 am

12

Sunday

New Disciples Orientation Session (NDO), in-person and virtual

11:30 am

15

Wednesday

Noon Day Bible Class, in-person only

12:00 pm

15

Wednesday

SOLLAS Noon Day Bible Class, in-person and virtual

12:00 pm

15

Wednesday

Bible for Life, in-person and virtual

7:00 pm

18

Saturday

School of Love Learning and Service (SOLLAS) Blast/Health Fair

10:00 am

22

Wednesday

Noon Day Bible Class, in-person only

12:00 pm

22

Wednesday

SOLLAS Noon Day Bible Class, in-person and virtual

12:00 pm

22

Wednesday

Bible for Life, in-person and virtual

7:00 pm

25 Saturday

Monthly Outreach Ministry Initiative: Atlanta Mission-The Shepherd’s Inn, every 4th Saturday unless otherwise noted

10:30 am

26

Sunday

Earth Day Recognition; Sunday Worship Service, in-person and virtual

9:30 am

26

Sunday

Meet Your Deacon following 9:30 am Worship Service

27

Monday

Virtual Meet Your Deacon

7:00 pm

29

Wednesday

Noon Day Bible Class, in-person only

12:00 pm

29

Wednesday

SOLLAS Noon Day Bible Class, in-person and virtual

12:00 pm

29

Wednesday

Bible for Life, in-person and virtual

7:00 pm

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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

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

“G.O.O.D! — Great Opportunities of Deliverance.”

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/ 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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YouTube:

ZHBCATL zionhill https://www.youtube.com/zhbcatlzionhill

Available after streaming as recordings.