History of Mount Zion UMC

Although a building had been started in 1861, prior to the deed transfer, work was most likely interrupted due to the Civil War. Contractor Joseph McCauley, doing most of the work himself, erected a 33' x 40' structure, sometime later known as Zion Chapel, on the land deeded to the MEC. Dedication took place on September 13, 1868. Until that time, for about two years, the northern and southern ME congregations shared the use of Pindell's Schoolhouse.

By this time the MEC congregation at Zion Chapel had dwindled and the property was purchased on this date by the MECS. After renovations the congregation at Pindell's Schoolhouse, where they had worshipped at least twenty-two years, moved to the facility.

During the pastorate of Rev. J. R. Andrew the Sunday School was organized and continued through the winter for the first time. Much membership growth occurred under Rev. Andrew's leadership.

The cornerstone was laid for a new two story masonry church building at the same corner as the preceding building. The Sanctuary was on the top level with space on the lower level for Sunday School. The church had stained glass windows, one given in honor of Rev. J. R. Andrew, considered by some as the "Father of Mount Zion." The total cost of this building was $14,134.29.

The membership of Mt. Zion was 105 with an average of 60 attending worship services. Sunday School enrollment was 84 with an average of 56 attending. The Epworth Youth League (now UM Youth Fellowship) had a membership of 54 with an average attendance of 38. Ministerial support was $ 555 per year.

Howard Circuit is reconstituted to include Emmanuel, Mount Zion, Linden, and Providence churches.

Rededication Service was held celebrating the renovation of the church with an expansion to the lower level of restrooms and additional classrooms, along with a new heating system.

Mount Zion Board of Trustees took over responsibility for the maintenance of the Mount Zion Cemetery.

The Howard Charge was divided and Mount Zion and Emmanuel were yoked together as the Mt. Zion-Emmanuel Charge. The membership of Mount Zion was now 176.

The Baltimore Conference designated Mount Zion as a "station church," one church served by a pastor appointed to serve only that congregation. The Rev. Julian Tavenner is appointed to Mount Zion.

Mount Zion was awarded with the "Church of the Year Award," as the Baltimore Conference's Best Rural Church.

Concrete block church on the corner is torn down. The bell of the church was incorporated into a victory bell structure at Glenelg High School. The first unified budget of $ 35,707 was established.

The Rev. Melvin Hughson and family moved into a new parsonage (facing Browns Bridge Road) on the grounds of the church. The new parsonage cost $ 37, 505.21.

During the pastorate of Stephen Rettenmayer, a new education wing with offices, chapel, and nursery was consecrated by Bishop Joseph H. Yeakel, connecting the Sanctuary with the Fellowship Hall. The new unit cost approximately $ 484,000.

The Kairos Pastoral Counseling Center (now the Kairos Pastoral Care Center) was started as an outreach ministry of Mount Zion UMC. The first director was the Rev. El Dasch.

Dr. Kenneth Lyons, having been appointed as District Superintendent of the Cumberland Hagerstown District, was followed by Dr. Thomas N. Connar.

Renovations to the Sanctuary created a larger chancel with all movable furnishings, along with new carpeting, increased lighting, and improved sound system.

Five acres of adjoining land was purchased from Mr. Richard Pue for a cost of $341,670.86.

Dr. Robert Burdette was appointed to another church, and the Rev. Kimberly Hall, duly appointed by Bishop May, assumed pastoral duties as associate minister. She was the first appointed woman and African-American pastor appointed to Mount Zion. The Kairos Pastoral Care Center was discontinued as a ministry of the congregation.

An estimated four hundred people attended a Hawaiian-themed Block Party, hosted by Mount Zion, Hopkins, and Emmanuel UMCs. The Block Party was primarily held to invite newer residents of the area to have a good time with us, and to be introduced to our churches. Approximately 30 visiting families registered at the Hospitality Tent.

An evaluation of the Sanctuary roof revealed that it was in serious need of repair. The Church Council approved the replacement of the roof and installation of gutters on the east side of the Sanctuary at a cost of approximately $35,000. $25,000 was taken from the Capital Reserve Fund and the balance taken from the Building Fund to pay for this repair.

Wendy Singer was hired as the Contemporary Music and Worship Leader. In this role, Wendy will rehearse with the praise band and give musical guidance and leadership to them and to the singing team. She will work with the Mt. Zion ministers to help develop the theme and flow of the contemporary worship services.

Befoe coming to Mt. Zion, Wendy had been a Worship Leader for several years at Bethany UMC in Ellicott City, where she had also provided vocal support and leadership at Conference worship services and workshops. She has also been a group leader and coordinator for the annual Women of Faith Conference in Washington, DC.