Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church
1312 Willow Street - Norristown, Pennsylvania 19401-3328
Reverend Carlos D. Bounds, M.Div., Pastor
Church Office: 610-279-8313 - Church Website: www.mtzion-ntown.faith
Sunday, February 01, 2026 - 11:00am worship Service and Holy Communion
THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY IN THE AME CHURCH
Stewards of the Day – Sister Avis McMillan and Brother Louis Mason
Trustees of the Day – Sister Agnes Lumpkin and Brother Eric Alexander
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF SERVICES AND EVENTS FOR CHURCH, COMMUNITY AND DISTRICT.
Announcements are an essential part of the church service. They are shared to keep everyone informed of upcoming activities and events. Thank you for taking time to review them carefully to stay up to date, and your support and prayers are appreciated.
You are invited to join Mount Zion Church Reoccurring meetings/Activities/Events
Sunday Worship Services
8:00AM - (2nd and 4th Sundays) - Sister Peggy Ann Scott, Coordinator and Worship Leader
11:00AM - Sunday Worship Service
Sunday Adult Church School - 9:30AM - 10:30AM - Louden Hall
Sunday Children Church School - 10:30AM - 11:30AM - Multi Purpose Room
Monday Evangelist Prayer Conf - 7:15pm - 8:15pm - Dial-In: 716 427 1108 - Passcode: 137801 - Evangelist Alaia Bradshaw
Wednesday Mid-Day Bible Study - 12:00noon - 1:30PM - In-Person Noon Postponed - Evening Virtual Scheduled
Wednesday Evening Bible Study - 7:00pm - 8:00pm - Zoom Meeting ID: 949 0581 6504 - Passcode: 475200 - Dial-In: 646-876-9923
Wednesday Monthly Love Feast (last Wednesday of each month) - 7:00pm - Mt. Zion Sanctuary - Sister Paulette Jones, Coordinator and Worship Leader
Wednesday - Narcotics Anonymous - 7:30pm - Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Group meet weekly in Louden Hall - Bro Eric Payne
Thursday - Exercise Sessions - 6:00pm - 7:00pm - Louden Hall - Sister Phyllis Mason, Leader
Worship the Lord with online giving: CashApp - $mtzionntown or Zelle – 610-761-6346
Holy Communion is a significant sacrament that serves as a memorial of the death and suffering of Christ. It symbolizes the love that Christians have for one another and their redemption through Christ's death. The bread and wine (grape juice) used in the service represent the body and blood of Christ, respectively, and are part of a living sacrifice offered to God. The A.M.E. Church emphasizes that all baptized and confessed Christians are invited to partake in this sacrament, which is a central element of worship and community life.
Altar flowers – The flowers are dedicated to Lauren Ashley Hughes who was sworn in as a Judge of the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas during a ceremony at the Norristown Courthouse on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. The flowers are also dedicated to Lena Lett who has been selected by KB Foundation, Inc. to participate in their Leadership Education Abroad Program (L.E.A.P.). Lena will be traveling to Cape Town, South Africa for an immersive educational leadership experience. God’s blessings to Sisters Lauren Hughes and Lena Lett!
Ø WOMEN’S DAY MEETING - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2026 - You are asked to join a brief meeting following worship service to discuss Women’s Day topics. Women’s Day Upcoming Events:
- Women’s Day - Prayer Breakfast - Saturday, March 28, 2026
- Women’s Day - 2-Night Revival - Wednesday, April 22 and Thursday, April 23, 2026
- Women’s Day - Sunday, April 26, 2026
Sisters Agnes Lumpkin, Chairperson and Adrianna Gray, Co-Chairperson.
Ø Monday, February 2, 2026 - 7:00pm - Mt. Zion’s 3rd Quarterly Conference - Hosted by Reverend Dr. Janet Jenkins Sturdivant, Presiding Elder. To join the VIRTUAL meeting, use Zoom Meeting ID: 582 633 1209 - Passcode 1331. Dial-In: 646 558 8656. Please confirm your non-attendance with Presiding Elder Sturdivant at pastorjjs@aol.com and Pastor Bounds at carlosdb2@msn.com. Thank you for your prompt attendance.
Ø Tuesday, February 3, 2026 - 7:00pm - Church Conference Virtual Meeting. Zoom Meeting ID: 949 0581 6504 - Passcode: 475200 - Dial-In: 646-876-9923. Thank you for your promptness.
Ø Tuesday, February 10, 2026 - 7:00pm - Lay Organization Monthly Meeting. The Lay Organization is hosting a workshop on “CHURCH LITURGY” presented by Sister Trina Allison. Thank you for joining this powerful workshop tool. Everyone is invited to join the meeting via Zoom ID: 815 9283 4672 – Passcode: 055355. For Call-In: Dial 1 (309) 205 3325 – Meeting ID: 815 9283 4672 – Passcode: 055355. (Flyer Attached)
Ø February 10-12, 2026 - The First Episcopal Founder’s Day Celebration at Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church - 215 N 57th Philadelphia. Event Summary: Group Name: AME Feb2026. Hotel Start Date: Monday, February 09, 2026. Hotel End Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026. Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel at $179.00 per night – The 2026 Founder’s Day Celebration: Remaining Freedom, a sacred moment of remembrance, reflection, and recommitment to the liberating vision that gave birth to our Zion.
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 – 6:00pm – Celebrating Black Excellence – National Constitution Center.
Ø Saturday, February 14, 2026 - 11:00am - 1:00pm - Women’s Fellowship presents “Valentine’s Day” - Louden Hall. Presentations by Rev. Carlos D. Bounds and First Lady, Sister Amy Bounds. “How To Build Stronger Relationships/Bonds.” Everyone Invited – singles – couples. Lunch provided. Questions, contact Sister Amy Bounds @ anbounds@hotmail.com. Thanks to everyone for your presence!
Ø LENT / Ash Wednesday - February 18, 2026 - 7:00pm - Mt. Zion In-house Ash Wednesday Service. Lent - 46 days before Easter Sunday. Lent consists of six weeks leading up to Easter and ends either on Maundy Thursday, April 2, 2026 or Holy Saturday, April 4, 2026. The ashes on the forehead serve as a visible symbolic reminder of human mortality and the need for repentance. Palm Sunday is March 29, 2026. This is the Sunday before Easter and commemorates Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem and it is the last Sunday of Lent. Maundy Thursday, known as Holy Thursday, is the day in Holy Week that commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with His disciples. It is a significant Christian observance where Jesus instituted the Eucharist, washed the disciples' feet as a symbol of humility and service, and foretold Good Friday on April 3, 2026. Good Friday is the day in Holy Week that commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ on the cross at Calvary. Holy Saturday is April 4, 2026, the day in Holy Week that falls between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. It is a day of quiet anticipation and reflection on the time when Jesus' body lay in the tomb before His resurrection, symbolizing the transition from the crucifixion to the resurrection in Christian tradition. Easter Sunday is April 5, 2026 and is the Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, signifying victory over sin and death.
Ø February 20-21, 2026 - First Episcopal District Lay Mid-Year Convention - hosted by the New England Conference Lay Organization. The convention will be held at the Crowne Plaza - 801 Greenwich Ave - Warwick, RI. If interested, contact Sister Joanne Turner, local Lay Org president to inform her of your interest in attending the Mid-Year Convention.
Ø Sunday, February 22, 2026 - 3:00pm – The South District of the PAC Invites you to a Pew Rally. Take a tour and hear the Voices our Leaders – at St. John AME Church - 2114 South 71st Street, Philadelphia, PA, Rev. Belinda Boyer, host pastor. Rev. M. Lloyd Guyton, tour guide. Rev. Stacia L. Gray, Chairperson. Ticket cost: $20.00. Guest Artist: Brother Neville Baker, Guest Psalmist – Jeanline Osayande and Dionya Dron and Dance Company. Brother Arnold Baker, Jr., Drummer. Rev. Dr. Janet J. Sturdivant, South District Presiding Elder.
Ø Saturday, February 28, 2026 - 1:00pm - Retirement Celebration of 53 years in Ministry for Presiding Elder Ellis B. Louden, Dover District Delaware Conference. Dover District Ministerium in celebration of Presiding Elder Louden’s retirement. Location: Delaware Agricultural Museum - 866 North Dupont Highway - Dover, DE 19901. Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. is guest preacher. NOTE - TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. IF Interested in attending Presiding Elder Louden’s retirement celebration, please contact Dr. Wilma Mishoe at 302-465-8889 ASAP. No church van service.
Ø Saturday, March 21, 2026 - 8:00am - 1:00pm - Church School Convention celebrating Present and Former Superintendents and Honoring Sister Angelena Spears, South District Superintendent. Venue: Morris Brown A.M.E. Church - 1756 North 25th Street - Philadelphia, PA - Rev. Bryan S. McAllister, host pastor. (1 day event). Rev Dr. Janet Jenkins Sturdivant, Presiding Elder.
- Rev. Stacia L. Gray, Wesley AME Church Swarthmore - Noon day preacher
- Panel Discussion: How To Strengthen Church School?
- Rev. Carlos D. Bounds, Mt. Zion AME Church, Norristown, pastor - Moderator
- Rev. Tiffany Lett Martin, pastor Bethel AME Church, West Chester, PA
Workshop: “The Season of Lent” - https://www.facebook.com/mobrownphilly/
Ø Wednesday, May 13, 2026 - Reverend Dr. Janet J. Sturdivant, Presiding Elder – Happy 70th Birthday!
Ø Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - Evangelist Service at Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church - Norristown during the Phila Annual Conference - the South District Hosting. Details to follow.
Thursday, May 21, 2026 - 4pm - 6pm - Lay Organization Lay Witness Night - Dinner for out-of-town guests.
Ø May 20-23, 2026 - 210th Session of the Philadelphia Annual Conf - South District Host. Venue: Valley Forge Convention Center - 1160 First Avenue - King of Prussia, PA 19406.
Ø Sunday, June 7, 2026 - 70th Birthday Celebration - 7:00PM - 11:00PM for Presiding Elder Janet Jenkins Sturdivant. Venue Reception: The Waterfall - 3416 Philadelphia Pike - Clayton, DE 19703 - Ticket cost of $100 per person, contact Sturdivantbirthday@gmail.com.
Ø Calendar Request(s) - Attention to those who are interested in scheduling church meetings and events. Review Mt. Zion’s online calendar to confirm if your desired date(s) and time(s) are available using link - https://www.mtzion-ntown.faith/church-calendar. You may complete and submit your request using the online calendar link. Brother Alton “AJ” Jones, calendar coordinator, will efficiently schedule your request following the scheduling calendar process. Requestor(s) will be contacted once event has been approved and processed. Please do not try to directly schedule an event on the church calendar page. Thanks for your cooperation - Brother Alton “AJ” Jones - calendar@mtzc.org.
Ø The 2025 Financial Statements are available for pick-up Sunday at church. Contact Brother Alton Jones (AJ) (university46@aol.com) or Brother Grimes (grimes6@comcast.net) for questions.
Ø Community Support - On behalf of Bishop Richard McCray, Norristown Church of God, there is an urgent need for adult coats for men and women being released this weekend from Montgomery County Correctional Facility. If you can help, please contact Bishop McCray directly at 484-845-8738 for details. Thank you for your support of this request.
REQUEST FORSUPPORT TO MT. ZION CHURCH FAMILY FROM LENA LETT
Hello Mt. Zion family and friends,
I am writing to share that Lena has been selected by KB Foundation, Inc. to participate in their Leadership Education Abroad Program (L.E.A.P.). This coming year, she will be traveling to Cape Town, South Africa for an immersive educational leadership experience. We believe international travel is vital for young leaders, as it fosters growth, broadens their worldviews, and prepares them to make a meaningful difference in their own communities upon their return.
To help fund this opportunity, Lena is participating in a raffle fundraiser. Supporters have the chance to win several wonderful prizes: A $500 Visa gift card; A perfume trio set; $150 worth of scratch-off tickets. Two premium alcohol gift baskets (for those who enjoy adult beverages).
We understand that this is not an A.M.E.-sponsored event; however, we wanted to share this opportunity with you in hopes of assisting Lena in reaching her $1,000 fundraising goal. For those who prefer not to participate in the raffle, the website also includes an option for direct donations. I would love to know if this information could be shared with Lena’s missionary aunties. The deadline for all contributions is Lena’s birthday, March 13, 2025 at 5:00 PM EST. Supporters can use the following link or reach out to me directly with any questions: https://givebutter.com/LEAP2026/lenalett.
Thank you for your time and for always supporting Lena’s journey. Sister Anthea Lett, Mom
Ø Mt. Zion Van Service Weekly Schedule - If Van transportation is needed to and from the church for worship services, call Saturday night prior to Sunday you need transportation. Members in need of Van service are asked to be ready for pick-up by 10:30am. First Sunday driver is Brother Wendel Haulcy (610-952-6857). Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Sunday driver is Brother Allen Yates (610-999-5141).
Ø The Flower Club will meet on a date to be determined during February 2026 timeframe. In the meantime, you may contact Sister Wanda Thompson as a point of contact with request for floral dedications or questions at wanda.thompson017@gmail.com or 267-283-5386. Also, you may obtain and complete ALTAR FLOWER DEDICATION FORMS which can be found on the Narthex Lobby Information Table and submit form to Sister Thompson. (Present Flower Club Members as of 2024: Mae Anthoney, Olethia Bradshaw, Annie Harris, Chu Cha Harris, Kathy Harris, Lois David Jones, Ramona Mcgee, Darlene Spencer, Cynthia Stanford (LOA), Shelina Thomas, Jon Thompson, Wanda Thompson, Etta Wise, and Allen Yates).
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE FLOWER CLUB!
REQUEST FOR PRAYERS for Sick and Shut-In members and friends in private homes, hospitals, nursing facilities, churches, rehab centers, and homeless/unhoused families within the surrounding communities. Sick and Shut-In Members: Sisters Mary Mansfield, Edith Custis, Bernice Lindsey, Nadia Wilson, Cynthia Stanford, Naomi Satterwhite, Lisa Walker, Dana Crowder, Carol Adams Dews, Brothers Vernal Henry, Curtis Lindsey, Sr., Lennox Wilson, Billy Sherard, Henry Smith, and other sick and shut-in members who are not listed. We pray for the families, friends that are caring for those who are ill. Lord Give them endurance, compassion, and wisdom as they provide support. May their love be a source of encouragement and light to those who are unwell. Bless them with your grace and peace. “But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord.” Jeremiah 30:17.
CONDOLENCES – Expressions of sympathy are extended to Sister Tisha and Brother David Lett and family in the passing of Sister Tisha’s grandmom, Catherine Clarke Weldon. Sister Weldon passed away Monday, January 26, 2026. Funeral visitation will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026 - 8:00am - 10:00am. Funeral Service - 10:00am - 11:30am at Ebenezer Methodist Church - 234 East Spruce Street – Norristown, PA 19401. Burial Service at Valley Forge Memorial Gardens – 352 South Gulph Road – King of Prussia, PA 19406. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Tisha and David Lett - 4097A Defford Place – Eagleville, PA 19403.
CONDOLENCES - Expressions of sympathy are extended to Brother Sonny and Sister Jackie Grimes and family in the passing of Brother Grimes’ sister-in-law Lynette Grimes. Lynette Grimes passed away Monday, January 26, 2026. Funeral will be held at Pinn Memorial Baptist Church – 2251 North 54th Street – Philadelphia, PA 19131. Visitation: Friday, February 6, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pm. Funeral Service: 12:00pm - 1:00pm. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Sonny and Jackie Grimes - 709 Stonybrook Drive - Eagleville, PA 19403.
May the hearts find solace in cherished memories and the love that remains from the loss of loved ones. Strengthen them in their sorrow and guide them through each day with hope and healing. “Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed` he prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY - Low Vision Awareness; National Children's Dental Health; Rheumatoid Arthritis; Heart Failure Awareness; International Epilepsy; Rare Disease Day.
Greetings Beloved of the First Episcopal District,
We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Founders Day Celebration, as we gather to honor our legacy and recommit ourselves to the future of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Founders Day 2026 - Theme: Reimagining Freedom
Founded in the courageous vision of the Free African Society and the leadership of Richard Allen, the AME Church was born out of a sacred commitment to dignity, justice, and self-determination. Founders Day invites us to pause, remember, and reflect—while also reimagining how freedom is lived, protected, and passed forward in our time. This year’s celebration will bring together clergy, laity, leaders, and partners for a meaningful experience centered on worship, reflection, fellowship, and forward-looking vision.
Why Attend
Honor the faith and sacrifice of our founders.
Reflect on freedom as both spiritual inheritance and responsibility.
Strengthen unity, pride, and connection across the District.
Participate in shaping a sustainable and faithful future for our Zion.
Optional Add-On
Attendees may also purchase a Soul Food Lunch ticket for $30, offering an opportunity for fellowship and community during the celebration. Lunch tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.
Register Today
We invite you to secure your place and join us for this sacred gathering.
Register Now: https://brushfire.com/ame1/ame2025fd/623748
Additional event details and reminders will be shared as we approach Founders Day.
We look forward to gathering with you as we honor the past and boldly move forward together.
With gratitude and anticipation, First Episcopal District - African Methodist Episcopal Church
“The Year Of Transition”
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future" Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)