by S. Rotan Hale
As one of many churches in the Roanoke area, Mount Zion AME is constantly transitioning through growth both spiritually and physically.
Contributing to that growth was a group of 20 college students from College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA and Wake Forest, Univ., Raleigh, NC honors programs.
The volunteers came through SERCAP’s VFC Alternative Break program–an opportunity for high school and college students who choose to travel to certain areas and engage in real life, service oriented, hands-on learning experiences.
They spent a week actually living in the church (meals provided) while assisting with cleaning, grounds work and various structural upgrades.
One on-site project they handled was the total overhaul of the Doris Dillard Food Pantry. The pantry is named in honor of Dillard who at 89 years-old is one of the churches’ oldest members.
“I never have a plan for anything, I just set my mind to it and let God have his way,” said Rev. Amy Ziglar who for 9 years has been pastor of the church just off Melrose Ave. northwest.
Rev. Ziglar said during her search for materials she approached one merchant and said “I need a miracle,” and thanks to donations from the retailer and certain others, things fell into place.
The freshly renovated pantry is equipped with new shelving, stocked with canned goods and a refrigerator. The freezer is loaded with food purchased with funds generated from congregational offerings.
“I know this is not a big deal but it’s just something in our community that shows we care about everybody. This is not just for Blacks or Whites, it’s for all folks,” she continued.
Those in need must notify the church and make an appointment with pantry overseer Ms. Dillard. Pick-ups are generally scheduled on Friday’s in accordance with church protocol.
With these upgrades Rev. Ziglar proudly notes that the church is officially registered with the Virginia 2-1-1 Directory. The resource guide provides listings for many area businesses and organizations that offer assistance to those in need.
While in the area, students also participated in serving residents at Roanoke’s Rescue Mission, the Veterans Administration, Small Smiles Dental Clinic and other sites about town.
Group leader Anthony Saltarelli, a 19-year-old sophomore at Holy Cross, said because of his “wonderful experience” in the program last year he decided to sign up again.
The church also got a new website, complements of Anthony and his skills as a computer science major.
“So if other groups are interested in service opportunities they can log on, fill out a form, donate or contribute to the site’s blog,” Anthony said explaining the sites features. The churches newly equipped website is also linked to their new Facebook page.
Anthony hopes his IT skills will allow him to pursue his future plans as an iPhone App developer.
“We housed 20 students that lived here at the church for 6 days and we provided the room, food and an abundance of love,” said Rev. Ziglar smiling at the faces of the young delegation of scholars on a mission of service.
