Mount Zion United Methodist Church
Highland, Maryland
Groups
Ministry
- Sunday School
- Mission Opportunities
- Christian Education
- Shepherd Program
- Mt. Zion Christian Preschool
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United Methodist Communications
The History of Mount Zion - 2001 to 2006
January 2001
The former parsonage became the "Kairos Ministry Center," housing the Kairos Pastoral Care Center (previously the Kairos Counseling Center), as well as providing some additional space for educational programs.
January 29, 2001
Five acres of adjoining land was purchased from Mr. Richard Pue for a cost of $341,670.86.
September 14, 2003
Groundbreaking celebration was held for new six room addition onto the east wing, north side, and for an expanded parking area.
July 1, 2004
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.
September 12, 2004
A Dedication Service was held during the Sunday School hour for our new six room education addition, parking area, and septic and heating systems. The former parsonage, which until recently housed the pastoral care center, now was established as a Youth Center for educational and fellowship activities.
September 10, 2005
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.
April 18, 2006
After weeks of evaluation and receiving feedback from the congregation, the Church Council overwhelmingly voted to invite Capital Seventh Day Adventist Church (CSDA) to lease space from Mount Zion, primarily on Saturday mornings. This arrangement provided an opportunity for CSDA to worship near property they recently purchased until they can construct and occupy a new church facility. At the same time, Mount Zion will receive funds to cover all expenses and to generate some income for our church. The contract will allow either party to terminate an agreement within a reasonable period of time. CSDA is primarily a congregation of Brazilian immigrants who worship in Portuguese.
June 12, 2006
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.
June 25, 2006
Jena Meredith began her duties as Mount Zion's part time Director of Children's Ministries. Children's Ministries is a vital part of our church's service to members and to the community, so the Staff Parish Relations Committee felt it was important to establish this eighteen-hour-a-week coordinator's position.
Jena duties include the coordination and supervision all areas of children's ministries, from infants through 5th grade. She will coordinate matters with the nursery staff, and Rev. Hall will be the primary pastor to whom she reports. Jena will serve as a liaison with the Preschool. She will oversee the Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, children's special activities, Children's Church, and Summer Sunday School.
August 27, 2006
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.
(Timeline prepared by Thomas N. Connar, September, 2004)
Mt. Zion's History - | 1862 to 1899 | 1915 to 1957 | 1960 to 2000 | 2001 to 2006 | 2007 to Present
Over 140 Years of History
For over 140 years, the people of Mount Zion have done God's work in this section of Maryland's beautiful countryside. Please enjoy this tribute to their lives and times.
Photo Albums
2005
2006
2007
Wesley Choir - Malice in the Palace
Farewell for Dr. Connar and Rev. Hall - June, 2007
2008
Wesley Choir - Are We There Yet?
History Links
Interments in Mt. Zion Cemetery