Rooted in Faith & Rising in Courage
Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
— Joshua 1:7
Upcoming Events
Join us as we celebrate and grow together in faith throughout 2026
Black History Month
February 1-22, 2026Throughout February, we celebrate the rich heritage, contributions, and faith legacy of African Americans. Join us for special services, teachings, and reflections honoring our history and hope.
Palm Sunday
March 29, 2026Begin Holy Week with us as we commemorate Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Our 11:00 AM service will include the waving of palms and a message preparing our hearts for the journey to the cross.
Holy Week Services
March 30 - April 3, 2026Walk with Christ through His final week. Join us for special services as we journey from the Upper Room to Calvary, reflecting on the passion, sacrifice, and love of our Savior.
Easter Sunday
April 5, 2026Celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ! Join us for our joyful Easter service at 11:00 AM as we proclaim "He is Risen!" with music, message, and the hope of new life.
Pentecost Sunday
May 24, 2026Celebrate the birthday of the Church and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Join us at 11:00 AM as we remember the power, presence, and gifts of the Spirit given to empower Christ's witnesses.
Welcome Home
Reaching Our World, One Family at a Time
Our Vision
For nearly 130 years, Mt. Zion Baptist Church has been among the brightest of beacons lighting the spiritual way for countless individuals and families in and around Bluefield, West Virginia. It has a rich legacy of bettering lives, instilling hope, and cementing faith. It is a legacy we continue to honor not by mere memorial and nostalgic reflection, but by blending timeless tradition with innovative programs designed to serve our community and all who seek spiritual growth and better navigation of their faith in a constantly changing world.
Whether you're a student from the nearby college, a family looking for a church home, or someone seeking a community of faith, we welcome you with open arms.
Visit Us
Join Us for Worship and Outreach
Experience authentic worship with devoted believers
Sunday Worship
11:00 AM
Join us every Sunday morning for inspiring worship, spirit led preaching, and genuine fellowship. Our services blend traditional hymns with contemporary praise in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bible Study
Tuesday, 6:00 PM
Deepen your understanding of Scripture in our weekly Bible study. Engage in thoughtful discussion and grow in your faith alongside fellow believers.
Community Outreach
Ongoing
As we wrap up 2025 and prepare our community outreach program 2026, check back here at the end of January for information on our exciting 2026 community plans. Join us in making a difference in people's lives.
A New Year's Message from Our First Lady
Stephanie Palmer
First Lady
As we stand at the threshold of a new year, social media is already flooded with resolutions, goals, and declarations of "New Year, New Me." We see posts about fitness transformations, career ambitions, and lifestyle changes. While there's nothing wrong with setting goals, I want to challenge us to think deeper about the kind of transformation that truly matters.
The apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." This isn't about a temporary makeover or a 30-day challenge—this is about a fundamental transformation that begins from within and radiates outward into every area of our lives.
As we enter 2026, ask yourself these questions: "What am I building my year upon—passing trends or eternal truths? Am I chasing what's popular or what's purposeful? Am I living for applause or for approval from the One who matters most?"
Don't just make resolutions—make a resolution to live more intentionally for Jesus Christ. Then watch how God transforms not only your year, but transforms you into an even more powerful influence for His kingdom.
Happy New Year! May 2026 be your best year yet—not because everything goes perfectly, but because you walk more closely with the One who makes all things new.
Meet Our Pastor
Pastor James Palmer
Pastor
Pastor James Palmer has served as the pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church since September 9, 2001. He was licensed to Preach the Gospel in June, 1981 by Tabernacle Baptist Church, Bluefield, Virginia and ordained by that church in February, 1982. He has been in active pastoral ministry since February, 1982 when he was called to serve as the pastor of First Baptist Church, Pembroke, Va. where he served for four years. He was then called to First Baptist Church, Northfork, WV where he served as their pastor for 14 years. Finally, he was called by Mt. Zion Baptist Church. He is now in his twenty-fifth year as pastor of Mt. Zion.
Pastor Palmer is married to Stephanie Williams Palmer and is father to their three sons and grandfather to 7 children. Pastor Palmer is an by nature and experience is an advocate, educator and researcher. He has served on the faculties of three colleges, practiced law for 25 years, and formed an independent insurance agency.
Get in Touch
We'd love to hear from you and welcome you to your church family