By Tanyika Armstrong – Located in the Arlington community, New Mt. Zion Church of Long Star invited the community to join in celebrating 159 years of faith, love, and service. The public attended the anniversary service at New Mt. Zion Church of Long Star and joined in this historic celebration of praise, remembrance, and thanksgiving. Guest speaker was Dr. Vance Phillip Ross, retired pastor of the North Geogia Conference of the United Methodist church.
“This is an historic moment of faith, resilience and Gods love for the church,” said Vance. The days’ historic service included dinner and the opportunity to meet new and old friends, while reminiscing on growing up in the church sanctuary.
“Gods promise always stands as a symbol of unity, strength, and enduring faith.” said member Jackie Brooks.
Founded in May of 1866, Spirit-filled believers established the original Mt. Zion Episcopal Church of Long Star on a sand hill in the historic Lone Star community. Located just east of Mill Creek Road near Lone Star Road, early residents used foot paths to reach the surrounding Duval county communities. These faithful families pioneered from across the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor laid a strong foundation of faith, love, and perseverance. The first services were held in wooden buildings near what is now known as the White Family Cemetery, which dates to 1862. A new church structure was built in the 1950s and continues to serve as a beacon of hope for generations.
Today, New Mt. Zion Church of Long Star is under the leadership of retired JSO Chaplain, Reverend David Williams, his more than thirty-year tenure has led the church into a new millennium of culture, community and continued archived history and dialogue. In addition to Sunday Church services, Sunday school, bible study and the United Women in Faith women/children ministries, the church also promotes their ‘Thankful/Hallelujah Thursday services for veterans and congregation worship. New Mt. Zion Church of Long Star stays true to the church motto: “to love God and honor His Word.”