Mount Zion United of Philadelphia celebrates in grand style

After fifteen years of service to the African community in Philadelphia, friends from various Christian communities joined Mount Zion United African Church at their 1453 North 52^nd Street location to celebrate the many blessings that they have received over the years  and to thank God almighty for the many challenges that they have successfully defeated. (Photo:  Rev. Joseph Abu)

From their humble origin of a community of fourteen members to a very large Christian family and meeting in different living rooms and moving from one small place to another along Chester Avenue in Philadelphia to their magnificent present location, it is easy to understand why they all believe that by standing on God’s promises as they have done, nothing is impossible for their ministry.

As they marched past an excited congregation, the Mount Zion choir led in singing the processional hymn “Standing on God’s Promises” as old and young, men and women adorned in traditional African pageantry, dance in praise and worship of the ever living God for enabling them to walk in light and being a blessing to many others that they as a church community, have brought out of darkness.

Welcoming all to Mount Zion was William B. Tucker, board chairman, who expressed his firm conviction that the church’s mission of bringing people closer to God is successfully being achieved and spiritual growth is one aspect that every member makes significant effort to attain. This is very important for us as members of this Christian family,” he stressed.

Speaking about the younger generation, the future of Mount Zion, Chairman Tucker was effusive as he underscored the active role that the young people have embraced in service of their church and community. This was evident as they paced up and down ushering guests to their seats; participate as choristers, dramatize the word of God among the many other activities that they engage in.

In his sermon to a jam packed congregation, Rev. Joseph Abu who was introduced by his wife, Matenneh Abu, was passionate in reminding all who have come to worship that they have come to Mount Zion and the city of the living God as Hebrews 12:20 states. “What is Mount Zion and this city of God,” he asks. “Are you at your Mount Zion,” he continued?

Reminding his listeners that Mount Zion is indeed one of the mountains that surround the city of Jerusalem, so too does God surround his people. Therefore, “put your trust in your living God for those who trust in the lord are like Mount Zion” the holy mountain which was established by God for his chosen people. 

Calling on all to establish a special relationship with God, Pastor Abu noted the importance of fulfilling one’s spiritual obligations as sons and daughters of the living God; by trusting in him no matter what the circumstances, never forgetting his great deeds and always keeping his commands. By being in direct communication with God, this is how we can reach “our Mount Zion.” he stressed.

Scripture reading, Hebrews 12:22 -29 was read by Rev. Deborah Bangura and worship through giving was lead by Rev. Mohamed Tarawally. Rev. Favor Ehirim led prayers in Blessing of the Giving. A special music performance by Augusta Mbalu Kamara and Sallor Mansaray titled “One day at a time” will always be remembered. As they lifted up their voices and lit the heavens, it was clear Mount Zion Choir was cognizant of the banner in the church that read “To God Be the Glory.”

Acknowledging the presence of visiting pastors, patrons and church members are Abdul Kamara and Sam King. Isatta Sowa informed all about developments in the church. As they led the service in special blessings and consecration and benediction, Pastors Abu and Samuel Konteh joined the choir in singing the closing hymn “Take the name of Jesus.”

Courtesy of PV’s Anthony Kamara.

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