srainhict soocer rystich restkini onadln sroceo
Transcription
srainhict soocer rystich restkini onadln sroceo
Write an adjective to describe THE FIRST FAMILY that begins with the letters below. T H E Unscramble the letters below to create the names of The First Family C O srainhict O soocer P rystich E restkini R onadln S sroceo COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING: Pastor Cooper’s famous saying is _____________________________________________________. His favorite color is ________________________________________________________________. His favorite translation of the Bible is __________________________________________________. His Alma Mater is _________________________________________________________________. His most recent fad is ______________________________________________________________. The names of his siblings are ________________________________________________________. The name of his first church is _______________________________________________________. The name of the church where Pastor Cooper was ordained is ______________________________. Pastor Cooper’s favorite food is ______________________________________________________. His favorite sport is ________________________________________________________________. Advisor Dr. Roscoe D. Cooper, III Editor-in-Chief Mary Kemp Editors Ruth Andrews Sally Collins Blanche Faulk Ola Luck Sheila Price Graphics Daphne Hill Remember your leaders, who spoke the Word of God to you… HEBREWS 13:7 Then the LORD answered me and said: Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it… because it will surely come… HABAKKUK 2:2 When Nehemiah we first meet He is sad, oh so sad, For with God’s people in Jerusalem All is bad, so very bad. For days Nehemiah grieved and mourned He fasted and he prayed Lord God of heaven, you’re great and fearsome Forgive your people, tho they strayed. Fervently he prayed to God above Before he bowed before the king The king gave ear; he heard his plea He gave him everything! Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem And set about his task The high priests and the people as well Did everything Nehemiah asked. Said Sanballat, the governor who ruled Where do they get the gall? He became angry, insulted God’s people Still they worked, and stayed on the wall. As we walk this Christian journey No matter what our call Remember Nehemiah’s sterling example Stay, stay on the wall! When trials come and they surely will And you think you just might fall Say a prayer, fast a day And always stay on the wall. Remember detractors are always there Even when you give your all Great is He who is in you Keep praying; stay on the wall. Composed by Sally Collins About the same time that we marched to our new sanctuary and Pastor Cooper took his text from Nehemiah 6:15 our church school lesson focused on Nehemiah and his re-building the wall around Jerusalem. Even though it took Nehemiah and all those working with him 52 days to complete the wall, it becomes a metaphor for what we must do - stay faithful, stay focused, stay on the wall! The above poem was written, not only to summarize the lesson but to focus on its symbolism for all of us as we walk the journey, continuing to follow the vision that God has given our Pastor. An Open Letter to Our Pastor Jeremiah 3:15 reads: I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. We, the Zion family, are forever grateful to God for His wisdom in gifting us with such a pastor/ shepherd like you – a pastor after His own heart. God knew that in order for His people to grow, we had to be spiritually fed with knowledge, understanding and have faith in Jesus Christ. Since day one of our spiritual relationship and in spite of our various levels of spirituality, you nurture our spirits with the powerfully preached and taught Word of God with clarity and understanding; encourage us to seek Him and walk in His ways, lead by example, remind us to rejoice, trust and give thanks for all things, and seek to bring about unity in spirit between Pastor and People. There’s no doubt in our minds that you are highly favored with God’s wisdom, anointing and counseling that you so readily pass on to us and all people to whom you minister. Your model exemplifies the importance of self-discipline and a clearer understanding that God gives each of us different talents and spiritual gifts to be used for His glory. We know that it is only when we serve with that purpose, do we honor God. Thank you for reminding us that we should never lose focus by becoming preoccupied on material things because it is far better to be rich in God than to be rich in goods. The unique gift God has given you is filling a need for our church family. For us, your congregants, you are so many things – the first introduction to Christ for some, the difference in a person’s life when you utter a word of encouragement or congratulations, a source of comfort to grieving families, and an expression of strength and hope in your prayers for the sick, weary and weak. We know that it has not always been easy to shepherd this flock whose needs are numerous and multi-faceted. Often times you have neglected your rest, exhausted your energy, worked tireless hours just to show your love for us, your commitment to your position and your obedience to God’s Call. We thank you for your willingness to give of yourself and be used where God has purposely placed you. As an humble servant of God, you have taught us to let God’s Word fill our mind and soul, rule our heart and guide our words. You have blessed so many lives in planting the seed of the gospel, producing continuous fertile spiritual growth, and being fruitful in bringing souls to Christ. We thank you! Truly the pastor’s work is great and many times is beyond our understanding. But God tells us in His Word to honor those who work hard for Him, giving spiritual guidance to His people. Today, Pastor Cooper, and prayerfully for many years to come, we acknowledge, appreciate, respect, honor and love you as Pastor & People continue to build God’s Kingdom here on earth! May God’s love, grace, mercy, and peace be multiplied unto you and our beloved First Family at Christmastime and always!!! We Love You Your Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church Family By Sally Collins Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. I Corinthians 15:58 Pastor Cooper, we, the Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church Family are so grateful to God for placing you in our lives. You have proven yourself to be an anointed servant of God, humble visionary and a positive leader who has a purpose-driven attitude, deep faith, genuine compassion and sincere love for people. Under your pastorate and leadership, God has not yet revealed our unforeseen destiny. Your refusal to fall for foolishness, petty distractions, or be diverted from seeking excellence and achievement has guided us to this point in just ten years! We love and appreciate you and acknowledge the following accomplishments accredited to you during your first decade as our beloved Pastor: Your approach has breathed more unity and love among the church family. New ministries such as the Sheepfold, Multi-Media, Fine Arts, and Security have been birthed! The Boy and Girl Scouting Programs have been re-established. In addition to the 11:15 a.m. Sunday morning worship service, an 8:15 a.m. service has been successfully implemented. The church membership has increased more than three-fold, from 300 to more than 1200, coming by Christian experience, as baptismal candidates and/or to be reinstated. You were named Minister of the Year for four consecutive years (2004, 2005, 2006, 2007) by the Ushers Union of Richmond and Vicinity, were invited by Congressman Bobby Scott to serve as a community representative to the Congressional Black Caucus Discussion (2005) in Washington, D.C., became a member of the Directors of the Capital Area Health Network and were later elected chairman, was one of the keynote speakers at the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education of the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc., Louisville, Kentucky (2008), awarded the Religion Award by the NAACP (2010), elected the youngest President of the Baptist Ministers Conference of Richmond & Vicinity, serving in this position for three years (2010-2013), instructor and preacher of the Evangelism classes at the Sunday School Publishing Board, Nashville, TN., and, member of the Religious Advisory Committee of Virginia headed by Senator Mark Warner. The Prayer & Praise Services developed into Worship on Wednesday (WOW) services for children and adults are truly a blessing with constant growth in attendance. Members and visitors may purchase a continental or full breakfast each Sunday morning in the church fellowship hall. Two more beautiful and healthy children have been born into our First Family, making it a family of six. Interior and exterior improvements have been made to the existing building, including painting, a new heating and air-conditioning system, exterior doors, renovated restrooms and new carpet and tile floors. So the wall was finished…Nehemiah 6:15 Approximately eight years ago, the members of the Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church assembled in the sanctuary, prayerfully and eagerly awaiting the announcement of Pastor Cooper’s God-given vision for the future of this hallowed and historic house of prayer. Pastor Cooper appeared in that assembly standing firmly on the rungs of the ladder of change. Behold I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert - Isaiah 43:19 (NKJV). Change is not easy, but with all of the challenges entailed in the process, it is a vital part of moving on to complete the task that God has set before us. Pastor Cooper rose to his feet and approached the congregation, acknowledging that the membership had fallen and the building funds were meager. At the same time, nevertheless, he recognized that God is in the business of working through His people to grasp that which seems unattainable. He reminded us that we stand on the powerful, spiritual shoulders of those who have preceded us, that the foundation is solid, but there is much more to accomplish on this journey of kingdom building. Poised at the dawning of a new era, imbued with the power of God and holding fast to the vision of expansion and construction, he challenged us to look to God and embrace the future. In the name of Jesus and by His authority Pastor Cooper declared: WE WILL BUILD! Challenging us further to focus in faith, rejoice in hope and pray unceasingly, he passed the offering plate and launched what has become known to us over these years as “THE MAKE IT HAPPEN CAMPAIGN (MIH)”. Many responded that very night with joy as they brought forth their treasure and placed it in the basket. God’s blessing in this situation calls to mind Nehemiah 2:17-18 -Then I said to them, ‘You see the trouble that we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins…Come let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem… I also told them about the gracious hand of my God upon me…and by their actions they replied, Let us start rebuilding. Let us fast forward to August 29, 2010--Groundbreaking for our new sanctuary! Not unlike the many detractors that Nehemiah encountered, the period between the launch of MIH and the glorious groundbreaking ceremony was fraught with obstacles, frustrations and setbacks. Just like Nehemiah Pastor Cooper prayed and the people of God followed the vision set forth by God’s mighty hand. Covered by a massive tent, the throng a thousand strong gathered to hear Pastor Cooper take his text from Nehemiah 6:15 entitling his sermon “Finishing What We Started”. He reminded us to take courage, be faithful, fight for the future, and always, always call upon the Lord. What a glorious time of thanksgiving and praise. What had seemed to many a mere dream was soon to become a reality! Every step of this great journey was to prepare us for the 9th day of December, 2012. The day was chilly, overcast and misty, but our hearts were filled with warmth and joy and light as we filed from the old sanctuary to the largest building project completed in the history of the church. Singing as we marched, “We’re Marching to Zion,” our beloved Pastor Cooper was about to cut the ribbon on the door of our brand new sanctuary!! The cross, visible from every angle of approach to this majestic edifice, reminded us of the real reason for this march, this celebration, this praise. It is a call to prayer, worship and discipleship. In his Sunday message on this grand opening day Pastor Cooper reminded us that in order to finish the “wall” of RMZ it had been necessary to stay focused and stay faithful. Again with praise and humility he cited Nehemiah 6:15, building his message on the first five words, “SO THE WALL WAS FINISHED.” Amen. GUEST EVANGELIST Dr. Lance D. Watson The Worship Leader – Rev. Kevin Sykes, St. James Baptist Church The Scripture – Rev. Marvin Jefferson, Christian Deliverance Fellowship Ministries The Invocation & Chant – Dr. Rodney Waller, First African Baptist Church The Pastor Appreciation Litany – Rev. Justin D. House, Evergreen Baptist Church The Introduction of Speaker – Dr. Roscoe D. Cooper III Musical Selections – St. Paul’s Baptist Church Choir On Sunday afternoon, October 6, the Zion family, friends and guests congregated in the Zion sanctuary for the Anniversary Worship Service that concluded the celebratory events of the 10th Anniversary of Pastor and People. A month of Wednesday night revivals, a selected week of surprise treats for the First Family, the Pastoral Anniversary First Family Luncheon, and the anniversary Sunday worship services were a flawless formula to create a sweet, sweet spirit and a halo of excitement that just engulfed the ambiance of the Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church. It was the sea of smiling ageless faces in the sanctuary that exhibited a joyful spirit of love, appreciation, approval and attitudes of gratitude toward God and our Zion First Family. In our midst, God placed providentially and purposely our beloved and anointed Pastor, Dr. Roscoe D. Cooper III, and gave each believer reason to rejoice in His goodness and faithfulness. What a blessed and joyful time! Our special guest was the powerful and prolific Senior Pastor of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Lance D. Watson, who was accompanied by musicians and a church choir. Dr. Watson chose to develop his sermon, “You Will Get It Done”, utilizing the biblical text, Zechariah 4:6-10 as the foundation for his message. Right away, Dr. Watson warned the congregants that God builds and strengthens one’s stamina through his experiences, trials and tribulations. He encouraged everyone to remain faithful and trust God in all situations. Only God can empower and give us a praise, joy and excitement in our spirit at times when we feel no joy, have no hallelujah moment, and the forces around us oppose us; interruptions in our progress try to stop us; and frustration enters our spirit. There will be glitches. Nevertheless, we must labor to demonstrate our confidence and remember that God keeps His promises, sends a prophet, encourages hope and eliminates fear. We are under God’s surveillance 24/7 and can expect problems. However, since God didn’t stop them, we were covered by His grace and mercy because He didn’t allow them to stop us either! Additionally, Dr. Watson gave us some declaratives to remember: Put personal trust in God! Use your heartbreaks as a highway to higher grounds! Don’t drift through life with no purpose! Praise God before you reach your goal! Don’t go back to the way it used to be! Start with small things and grow! Remember that worship is spiritual training! Remember that your “next” is connected to your “now!” Leave the battles to God! Know that God can and will do great things! Be mindful that it is not by power or might, but by God’s spirit! Dr. Watson summarized his meaningful and teachable message stating demonstratively that God is unstoppable! He will give us whatever we need to complete our purpose. We should always be compassionate and realize that just because something comes in our mind, doesn’t mean it should come out of our mouth! God has, can and will do great things! SO, Rising Mount Zion, GET IT DONE and remember that prayer moves heaven; money moves earth! It is indeed a joyous time in the life of Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church! Giving all honor, praise and thanks to God, the members of the Anniversary Committee also sincerely thank everyone who helped in any way to make the 10th Anniversary of Pastor and People a most endearing and complete success! More than five years later as our pastoral leader, you ordained a minister, Rev. Edna Holmes; licensed four ministers: Doris Batts, Blanche A. Faulk, Richard Hatcher III, and Mary W. Holmes; ordained three new and later sanctified two former deacons: Jaron Dandridge, Mary Kemp and John Ross, Jr., Lorenzo Doswell and Joseph Hatch; consecrated five deaconesses: Delores Carter, Helen Day, Sarah Sparks, Carol Stovall-Johnson and Tammy Waddy, Mary Walker; installed ten new trustees: Jerry Branch, Jerry Eberhardt, Roderick Frazier, Cheryl Jordan-Sayles, Pearl Langhorne, Duane Lynch, Corey Mickleberry, and Winfield Price, Jeffrey Tarpley and Franklin Thurston, Sr. You witnessed one of your sons in ministry, Rev. Duane E. Hardy, become an installed pastor of another flock. Monies have been contributed and financed for the completed construction of our new multi-million dollar sanctuary and administration wing, Phase One of our Building Project. The systematized RMZ Daycare Center and Sunday children nursery continue to grow and thrive! At its Thirty-second Annual Commencement Program, the Richmond Virginia Seminary bestowed upon you an Doctor of Divinity Degree, honoris causa, in recognition of your stellar denominational leadership, pastoral and ministry service in our church, communities, state and country. The local, state and national request for you as an evangelistic speaker, a revivalist, an educational and inspirational orator, and a spiritual teacher has earned you numerous awards, afforded your church family the opportunity to learn and travel, and the church to be nationally known. Pastor Cooper, your Rising Mount Zion church family celebrates the first ten years of your pastorate as our Pastor not just for what you have accomplished but for the person you are! We have certainly witnessed you place your faith in the hands of our Savior and challenged us to do the same. Thank you for letting your light shine, whether it is being seen by few, many or none because all is done to glorify God! To us, you are a true example of the scriptural reading, Matthew 5:16 – Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. By Deacon Mary Kemp The Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church family vividly remembers where we were ten years ago and find it mind-boggling to realize where we are today under the leadership of our shepherd, Dr. Roscoe D. Cooper III! Thus, we thank, praise and glorify God who has blessed us to be able to celebrate His goodness and the 10th Anniversary of Pastor and People. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH Worship Leader ~ Deacon Jaron Dandridge Scriptural Reading ~ Bro. Anthony White Opening Prayer Rev. John Miller GUEST EVANGELIST Introduction of Speaker ~ Sister Teresa Lewis Dr. Sheridan D. Nelson Offertory ~ Deacon Lorenzo Doswell, Bro. Rocky Lewis Kicking off the first celebratory activity was met with an unexpected challenge because it happened to fall on the twelfth anniversary of the 9/11 attack on the Twin Towers in New York and the Pentagon outside the nation capital, Washington, D.C. You see, it was the first of four Wednesday night revivals and our first revivalist was DR. SHERIDAN D. NELSON, Senior Pastor of Abyssinia Baptist Church in Norfolk, Virginia. For several hours this heavily populated militia area was threatened by a report of bombs being transported into the area. Therefore, security measures were immediately implemented to secure the safety of all citizens demanding the closing of several tunnels on the Interstate Highways and bringing traffic to a total stand-still in every direction from the morning through mid afternoon. Even after the threat was lifted, the time of day and volume of motor vehicles waiting on the highways made it literally impossible for the traffic to flow at its normal velocity for several hours. The closing of the tunnels and the volume of traffic forced Dr. Nelson to travel on secondary highways instead of the interstate, causing a delay in his arrival. Being knowledgeable of and concerned about the situation, naturally Pastor Cooper was tense and eager to communicate with his friend, Dr. Nelson, and definitely relieved to learn in spite of the situation, he and the residents of the area were safe and he was in route to our church. Meanwhile, the Zion sanctuary was rapidly filling up and the 7 p.m. worship hour swiftly approaching. However, at 6:45, the first Wednesday scheduled “Praise Through the Arts” period began promptly during which Brother Jahi Watson, Zion’s gifted pianist and organist, presented a musical medley of familiar and popular gospel songs and hymns. What a spirit-filled rendition that certainly created an ambiance for worship! Afterwards, since Dr. Nelson had not yet arrived, Deacon Dandridge briefly explained the unpredictable situation and wisely utilized the time offering a period of prayer, testimony and song. When Dr. Nelson was in close proximity of the church, the worship service proceeded, taking care of the preliminary worship matters and giving him time to arrive and relax for a moment before greeting the patiently awaiting crowd. Let me tell you, the wait was well worth it! Following personal and congratulatory comments, Dr. Nelson chose to utilize the scriptural reading, Judges 15:9-20 as the foundation for his powerful, captivating sermon entitled, “Life’s Defining Moments.” The worshippers were mesmerized by the collected and focused spirit of Dr. Nelson as he immediately seized the absolute attention of everyone. He stated emphatically that defining moments are often the result of drama, difficulty, failure, inaccuracy and/or flaws in our lives. The restrictions, challenges and/or enemy of these moments are often self, your own people and lack of knowledge. Dr. Nelson cautioned the congregants not to perceive their leader as their enemy or make the monumental mistake of using petty, negative, and hearsay stuff to bind/tie up the leader God has sent to lead His people! The leadership can and should always reflect God especially in crucial moments. Everyone seemed to recall such moments in his life and reacted with verbal and physical thanks and praises to God! The victory of defining moments comes when believers seek the help from a Power greater than we are. GOD – our present Help, our ultimate HEALER, our on-time DELIVERER! Vengeance is the LORD’s GUEST EVANGELIST Bishop Keith Wayne Reed, Sr. Worship Leaders – Rev. Belinda Cosby & Rev. Patsy Witcher Call to Worship – Rev. Doris Batts & Rev. Georgianna Faulk Invocation – Rev. Rosemary Morris & Rev. Blanche Faulk Introduction of Speaker – Dr. Roscoe D. Cooper III Musical Selections – RMZ Mass Choir Benediction – Dr. Harold Sayles & Rev. Mary Holmes For both morning worship services on Sunday, October 6, the Rising Mount Zion church family was blessed to have as its evangelist, Bishop Keith Wayne Reed, Sr., Senior Pastor of Sharon Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Because Bishop Reed is well renowned, loved and a spiritual giant of the Word, parishioners began showing up at Zion as early as 7 a.m. for the 8:15 worship hour. At the appropriate hour, Bishop Reed stood and humbly claimed his space behind the sacred dais. He chose to employ the scriptural text, I Peter 5:1-5, and entitled his sermon, “A Portrait of a Pastor”. Bishop Reed acknowledged that everyone has mentally painted a portrait or description of how a pastor should be and look like. Therefore, it is impossible to please everyone. There are three things, title, task and trophy that will help you to better paint a portrait. He stated that a pastor has titles such as Elder, Shepherd and Overseer, and applied certain characteristics to differentiate his titles. An Elder is a matured person in his walk with God. In this case, maturity is not necessarily linked with one’s age. He is vertically straight/upright with God and has a horizontal relationship with people. He must be a part of and an extension of God’s love. Love God and love his fellow man. A Shepherd of a congregation ministers to a flock, rather than a herd. God refers to people in the church as a flock, instead of a herd, referencing sheep in a field/pasture. The difference is that a herd has to be driven and a flock must be lead. A shepherd focuses on his people/sheep, does not minister by driving his sheep, but ministers from a leadership perspective. He should always focus on feeding and leading his flock first, no matter how many other flocks to which he may minister. An Overseer is equivalent to a bishop, superintendent, administrator who manages his church flock. He has discernment to put people in place to help him minister over ministries in the church, working together and making sure all is done in a Christ-like manner. A pastor’s tasks intertwine with his titles. Regardless to the title used, he/she must realize that sheep are restless and quick to react to the least movement or change, thinking it is a sign of danger. Four major things that keep sheep on their feet are: Friction – Friction takes place among the flock. Every flock has rams that cause friction by what they say and do when they think the shepherd is not around. That’s why the Pastor should show up unexpectedly in meetings, rehearsals, etc to keep the friction at a minimal in the church, preventing it from getting out of hand! Predators – Things that devour or destroy sheep. The shepherd protects his flock and should be forever mindful that there are predators waiting to leap. Thus, the pastor should set example with his personal life and the use of the rod (Bible) to guide, comfort, shield and protect his sheep from being overcome by gossip, jealousy and wickedness. Parasites – Worms or vermin that thrive on the inside, causing problems and pain. Check sheep externally. If there are no visible scars, you know the problem is internal. Parasites come from bad doctrine and false teaching. The shepherd is to give proper provision. Hunger – A pastor must feed his flock! Therefore, fresh, nutritious pastures must be prepared for the sheep. Most importantly, stand on the Word of God in all the teaching and preaching! When things come into the sheep’s life that make him weak, he will not fall prey to his weaknesses, but will be able to stand firmly on the teaching and preaching of the Word Speaking purposely to the Zion family, Bishop Reed stated that the pastor’s title speaks of one office, three titles and one person. His tasks are to focus on his sheep, minister from a leadership perspective, teach and preach the gospel, stand on the Word, and believe in the promises. When the trumpet sounds, a trophy (a crown) shall be received. It was evident that Bishop Reed painted a portrait of a pastor, exhibiting expectation, clarity and understanding! What a blessing in his message! GUEST EVANGELIST Rev. Dr. Derik Jones Master of Ceremonies ~ Rev. Duane Hardy Scriptural Reading ~ Rev. John Miller • Opening Prayer ~ Rev. Doris Batts Welcome & Statement of Purpose ~ Ms. Teresa Lewis Musical Selections ~ Ms. Amber Hughes, accompanied by Mr. Jahi Watson Blessing of the Food ~ Little Miss Ryan Bates Introduction of Speaker ~ Rev. Harold Sayles The Tenth Anniversary Pastoral Luncheon in honor of Zion’s First Family was held Saturday, October 5th at noon in the Fifth Baptist Church Family Life Center. It was such a joyous occasion filled with laughter, chatter and excitement. As the guests entered, they were greeted with the soothing sound of soft jazz and directed and/or escorted to a table by a delightful greeter. Each table was simply elegant and beautifully decorated with a white tablecloth, a tall water-filled vase with floating purple flowers and a lit candle centered over a round mirrored tile sprinkled with purple and lavender rose petals designed by Tawnya Ford-Williams. Soon after the First Family was seated, Rev. Hardy, Pastor of Seven Pines Baptist Church in Sandston, Virginia and a ministerial son of Zion called the large crowd to order, implemented the order of the program, and read messages at interval times of the program from members of the Zion family to the Pastor. Following the preliminary tasks, the attractive, plentiful and delectable buffet lunch was received and thoroughly enjoyed by all guests. Rev. Dr. Derik Jones, Pastor of the historic First Baptist Church of South Richmond, Virginia serving with his father Senior Pastor, Dr. Dwight C. Jones, was the luncheon speaker. He utilized the scriptural text, Acts 16:16, entitled his message, “Lessons I Learned at Unexpected Occasions.” He spoke with clarity as he emphasized the following poignant points: ► As a parent, Dr. Jones, like many of us has learned from unforeseen things, places and people such as cartoons, church/community functions, and individuals. In the text, Paul learned from a slave girl. ► However, you can’t listen to everyone because it would literally drive you crazy. ► When a person is blessed, everyone is not happy for you. There are always haters. People who say they are with you may not be in your crowd. ► Everyone who sees a need doesn’t have the courage to seize a need. ► Sometimes you have to step outside your comfort zone, go alone, and not worry about losing friends, supporters etc. ► One cannot be afraid or fret if his convictions lead him to a place, cross or decision in which he appears to be alone. ► Take a stand in Jesus’ name! Trust in the LORD and see doesn’t He lead us to victorious places and even, lonely, challenging places. Stand on His promises for He will deliver! ► Give God the glory and stop trying to be a crowd pleaser. ► Pray for God to increase His presence in your being and know that He will stick by you through thick and thin. ► If God doesn’t take you out of something, ask Him to help you through it. ► Learn to sing your own song; pray your own prayer. Learn to shout and praise God in the dark. Sometimes you have to preach in the dark. But, through it all, “Trust God.” Dr. Jones concluded by reminding us that our endurance encourages others and that God gives us a praise that’s not just for us, but rather, to bless someone else. We must learn to pray for and lift others up! T h e n, WATCH GOD CHANGE THINGS! It was an afternoon during which the First Family and People expressed and demonstrated a mutual sense of joy, love and appreciation for one another and a desire to be together and grow for many, many years to come! Etched in everyone’s memory is a most beautiful relationship with God, Pastor and Family and the People and friends of Zion. We give Glory to God who directs our path! and through His spirit, we are victorious! God shows up at the right time, sends the resources we need through His divine intervention. Even when God provides the resource, He expects us to work it. No matter how great your victory, always give God the glory and be dependant of Him! A church family should never let its leader fight alone; and, at least once a year show him/her love and appreciation! Finally, Dr. Nelson warned the saints to call and depend on God especially when we are tired, depleted, and there’s wickedness and weakness in our lives. God will restore, revive, may not remove, but He will make a way! Our sincere gratitude is extended to Dr. Sheridan D. Nelson for a most thought-provoking, powerful, memorable and meaningful sermon and a great celebratory beginning for our 10th Anniversary of Pastor and People! WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH GUEST EVANGELIST Dr. Rodney D. Waller Worship Leader ~ Deacon Willie Andrews Scriptural Reading ~ Sis. Johnelle Torbert Opening Prayer ~ Sis. Tess Short Introduction of Speaker ~ Sister Monique Davis Offertory ~ Deacons Joseph Hatch & Mary Kemp Again the doors of Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church swung wide open, inviting the worshippers in for another fantastic evening of worship and praise and to be greatly blessed on the second Wednesday night of revival celebrating Pastor and People! Promptly at 6:45, the Zion Praise Dance Ministry members took center stage performing two dances during the “Praise Through the Arts” period. The praise dancers wooed the enthusiastic crowd as they waved flags and streamers, moved and danced gloriously in rhythm to the tune, “Glory” by Marvin Sapp. Then Jacqueline Manning, a member of the Zion Drama Ministry, dramatically read a scripted narrative that gracefully enhanced the performance of the dancers who danced reverently to Juanita Bynum’s song, “You Deserve the Glory.” What a powerful rendition of praise through dance! The revivalist for the evening was DR. RODNEY D. WALLER, Senior Pastor of the third oldest African American church in the United States, First African Baptist in Richmond, Virginia. Dr. Waller was accompanied by his deacons, ushers, musicians, a choir and parishioners. Showing evidence of preparation and readiness, Dr. Waller charmed the congregants with humorous accolades to his friend, Pastor Cooper, readily chose the scriptural reading, Joshua 3:1-9; 13-17, and entitled his sermon, “The Other Side of Obstacles.” He compellingly proclaimed the Word of God, clearly dissected his chosen text and stated several pivotal points. Everyone has to deal with obstacles in his life. However, the real challenge is how does one overcome an obstacle and turn it into a spiritual victory? Dr. Waller responded boldly, “Know that you must: (1) Seek, trust God who specializes in the deliverance of His children. (2) Make a mind-adjustment. (3) Follow the drumbeat of God. (4) Know that God is able to make a way out of no way. (5) Take God at His Word. (6) Expect a miraculous moment with God. (7) Be willing to take a risk. (8) Remember His teachings. (9) Know that God will keep His promise. (10) Thank and give the praise to God.” He stated that just as God parted the Jordan River at flood stage and allowed Joshua and the Israelites to safely cross on dry ground to the other side, He fixed it then for them, and He’ll fix it now for us! God exalted Joshua in the eyes of all the Israelites just as today He exalts His “Called” leaders in the eyes of the believers. Obstacles have a tendency to make people lose focus on what God has promised! God is a Promise Keeper and a Miracle Maker! He purposely had Joshua choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe, and instructed them to each take a stone to the other side, stack them so that the descendants can see how God made a way back then. The stack of stones remains today and serves as a memorial to the people of Israel forever. In spite of any situation, GOD is the same yesterday, today and forevermore! With a sense of spiritual directness Dr. Rodney D. Waller truly carried the torch and ran the second lap of the anniversary revival services, offering a hallelujah night of the comprehensibly preached Word!!! Push forward. Dare to be a beacon for others to see, deflecting not from God’s work until the job is done. When men/women of faith decide to go forward, remember if you take one step, God will take two! “But GOD” moments are available to us today as they were for the men with leprosy then. It is the Hand of God that shows up, delivers us, and makes a way out of no way! Never doubt what God can do! There are no limits so long as we keep our hands in God’s Hand and allow Him to order our steps! The Zion family praises and thanks God for another blessed and gratifying night of worship! WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH GUEST EVANGELIST Dr. A. Lincoln James Worship Leader ~ Sister Deborah Andrews Scriptural Reading ~ Young Master Caleb Faulk, Opening Prayer ~ Young Master Linwood Faulk III Introduction of Speaker ~ Young Miss Eriel Waddy Offertory ~ Trustee Phillip Downey & Sis. Tara Holmes This Wednesday night revival was as smooth as a rushing stream flowing in its natural boundaries. The parishioners hurriedly entered into the sanctuary expecting another night of powerful preaching and boundless praise. Believe me, no one was disappointed! The “Praise Through the Arts” period took a new twist with a newscast-like setting in which the Drama Ministry members dealt with a series of problems such as health, finance, family and relationships that people face today. The information offered was valuable, interesting, and centered on the importance of believing, trusting and depending on God to lead in every situation. God’s providence is certain when you plug into the right Source! Introducing the worship service were the strong-in-number, melodious voices of the Trinity Baptist Church Choir that accompanied their Pastor, Dr. A. Lincoln James, and our third Wednesday night revivalist. In addition to the convoy of choir members, leaders, ushers and congregants came to support their Pastor and worship with fellow believers at Zion. After expressing a sincere and honorable tribute to Pastor Cooper, Dr. James chose his biblical text, II Kings 7:1-4, and entitled his sermon, “Rising Mount Zion – At the Gate.” Dr. James’ message was candid, truthful, and serious as he shared the following poignant facts with the large attentive crowd, specifically the Zion family: Complimenting the Zion family for its unprecedented ten-year growth under Pastor Cooper’s pastorate, Dr. James reminded the Zion family that we did not achieve anything on our own, but rather, it was by God’s grace and favor to us. He cautioned us not to stick out our chests in a boastful manner because God is dissatisfied with such attitudes. Zion was compared to the four men with leprosy at the entrance of the city gate engaged in conversation, trying to make a decision whether to go back, stay or go forward. Just like the men with leprosy, Rising Mount Zion has a decision to make! Where do we go from here? Our decision determines our destiny – Do we stay, get up, man up, stand up, go forward and leave a legacy for our descendants? No doubt, there are some Zion “church” folk who wanted to say to Dr. Cooper, “Chill. You already have enough. You are moving too fast. We’ve always done it this way. Slow down. We don’t need to do that. Be satisfied!” There are others in the audience right now who want to go back to the so called “good ole days”. What are the “good ole days?” Dr. James asked the inquisitive question, “REALLY?” How far back? The truth of the matter is that there’s no such thing as the “good ole days.” YOUR BEST DAYS ARE AHEAD OF YOU! Rising Mount Zion, work with, appreciate and support the anointed and capable leader that God has given you. Continue to rise to higher heights, refusing to allow those who are content existing where they are or below their capabilities to pull you down. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2ND GUEST EVANGELIST Dr. Anthony M. Chandler Worship Leader ~ Rev. Blanche A. Faulk Scriptural Reading ~ Bro. Randy Faulk Opening Prayer ~ Sis. Patricia Doswell Introduction of Speaker ~ Young Brother William Mack IV Offertory ~ Deacon Richard Hatcher, Jr. and Bro. Bryant & Sis. Sonya Mallory Tonight, there is a sense of enthusiasm as well as a certain cloudiness of gloom in the atmosphere because it is the finale of the Wednesday night revival services that have been so spiritually uplifting that the Zion family hates to see them come to an end. For the past three Wednesday nights, the Zion family has actively participated in the glorious worship of our Creator while celebrating the 10th anniversary of Pastor and People. Promptly at 6:45 p.m., the Zion Musical Small Ensemble is “small” only in number and composed of five ladies who have powerful and explosive voices that sounds more like fifty voices instead of only five! These talented, strong voices of five rendered several heartwarming and spiritually comforting songs that were definitely a welcomed blessing and the prelude to the worship service. The eager parishioners entered into the sanctuary singing along with the ensemble, praising God and readying themselves for another delivery of the blessed Word. Our guest evangelist was DR. ANTHONY M. CHANDLER, the Shepherd of the Cedar Street Baptist Church of God, Richmond, Virginia. He was accompanied by a swarm of deacons, ushers, choir members and congregants. Following his friendly accolades and a presentation of a monetary gift, Dr. Chandler chose to utilize Acts 5:17-19 for the basis of his message and entitled his sermon, “Thank God for Angels”. Challenging the audience, Dr. Chandler asked, “Do you feel that sometimes you are fighting a losing battle? Why are the results the same? Are you seeking the right Person for your answers? Or, do you find yourself responding, “But oops, I did it again”? If we insist on going to people for answers, will there ever be an end to losing battles? When twenty percent of people don’t care, and the other eighty percent may be glad it happened, what do you do? In church, people may pretend all is well, get on your nerves, and say/do things that are insensitive and disingenuous. Perhaps, church may be where you can be free from your prison. It consists of people representing the “wheat and weeds”. Weeds can and will destroy if you allow them to grow and multiply. Therefore, you must eliminate the weeds and increase the wheat so that your personal and spiritual life is positively enriched. After all, there’s strength in number! So much is said or done that will make you call on God who always sends an angel to protect and direct. Thank God for your haters who unknowingly are actually strengthening and pushing you toward your destiny! Always depend on God, your “Big Daddy,” who will protect you, open doors for you, make a way and deliver you. Know that God is on the job no matter what is happening! Another refreshing and noteworthy message from on high! The Wednesday night revival services have truly been a blessing to the Zion family and all our guests. We are forever grateful to the numerous Anniversary Committee members who worked diligently and were committed to the success of this wonderful Tenth Anniversary, Celebration of Pastor and People! ALL GLORY TO GOD!