The Mount Newsletter for September 16, 2026

Meetings This Evening...

Baptism Class - 5:15 PM and New Members Class - 5:30 PM

If you or a family member recently joined SMZBC and needs to take the class, we will meet virtually (go to meetings.dialpad.com or call 804-203-9011). Those seeking to be baptized, meet at 5:15p and those who are already baptized will join in at 5:30p. Class is required to become an active member of the Mount.

Grow Zone & Children & Youth Church School Teachers Meeting - 6:30 PM

Those returning to teach and those interested in teaching for Church School and/or the Grow Zone, please attend the in-person meeting this evening at 6:30 PM.

Countdown to Our 159th Church Anniversary

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  • Game Day: We're bringing "Game Night" fun to the afternoon in the church building. There will be games that you'll play solo and games you'll have to play as a team. Bring the whole family. It's always a good time.
  • Church Cookout: Hopefully, the weather will be a little cooler as we enjoy food, fellowship, and some field day games out on the church parking lot.
  • 159th Church Anniversary Worship: Plan to attend, sing in the choir, usher, etc. Invite your family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers to join you. Pastor Marvin Gilliam will be our guest preacher. All members who are able are asked to give $159, $59, or $15.90 above your tithes and offerings. When giving it, please note it is for Church Anniversary.
  • Stay Tuned for a Lip Sync Battle later in the fall...


Wednesday, September 16 — Encourage Somebody

  • Today’s Takeaway: Offering encouragement in Samaria means daring to bridge silence with grace. Just as Jesus asked the Samaritan woman for a simple drink of water, a small, sincere gesture can dismantle years of awkward distance. A humble word of kindness can open the door for God’s living water to flow where there has only been drought.
  • Today’s To-Do: Take a courageous step across the divide. Send an olive-branch text, an encouraging note, or a sincere "thinking of you" message to someone you’ve experienced emotional distance or strained history with. Ask nothing in return, simply offer grace.

Back to Church School and Bible Study

  • Bible Study is Back on Wednesday, September 30th
  • Church School returns Sunday, October 4th

In an effort to keep everyone safe during worship and ministry activities, our Trustees are asking all members and guests to help us maintain a secure environment. In this current climate, we must all do our part to stay vigilant and protect one another. Please remember the following important guidelines:

Be aware of your surroundings at all times while on church property. If you see something that doesn’t feel right, notify a Trustee or Staff Person immediately.

Do not prop open any exterior doors under any circumstances. All doors should remain closed and locked unless they are being actively monitored.

Arrive on Time for Worship: Arriving on time also helps us maintain a secure environment, as it reduces the need to open the exterior doors multiple times once worship has begun.

Exit the building promptly after worship and other events so that our Trustees can properly secure the church.

Thank you for partnering with us to make Sixth Mount Zion a safe and welcoming place for everyone.