Little Rock A.M.E. Zion Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, celebrated a powerful and spirit-filled Holy Week under the leadership of Pastor Rev. Dr. Derrill A. Blue and First Lady Rev. Dr. Paula B. Blue, culminating in a dynamic Resurrection Sunday service that uplifted and inspired all in attendance. Holy Week services included the Seven Last Words Service, Sunrise Service, Children’s Easter Program, and Resurrection Sunday Worship, each reflecting the significance of Christ’s sacrifice and victory.
The Seven Last Words Service brought together anointed ministers who delivered impactful messages centered on the final sayings of Jesus Christ, reminding attendees of the depth of His love and sacrifice. Those who shared the Word included Rev. Raymando Brady of Walls Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church (Charlotte, NC), Rev. Alicia Starnes of Young’s Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church (New Market, TN), Rev. Devin D. Paylor of Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church (Charlotte, NC), Rev. Thelma Gordon of St. John A.M.E. Zion Church (Thomasville, NC), Rev. Dr. David Scott Cunningham of Marvin A.M.E. Zion Church, Rev. Dr. George Banks of Goler Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church (Winston-Salem, NC), and Rev. Brittany White of St. Matthew A.M.E. Zion Church (Rock Hill, SC). The service was further honored by the presence of Bishop Darryl B. Starnes, Sr., Presiding Prelate and Senior Bishop of the Piedmont Episcopal District of The A.M.E. Zion Church, and Missionary Supervisor Mrs. Camille E. Starnes. Musical selections were given by the Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church Choir, the Marvin A.M.E. Zion Church Choir, and the Little Rock A.M.E. Zion Church Choir.
Resurrection morning began with the Sunrise Service, led by Rev. Clarence Jones, Jr., Pastor of Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church, and sponsored by the Community of Faith Churches, setting a reverent tone of reflection and renewal.
The celebration continued with a heartfelt Children’s Easter Program, where 28 children delivered a joyful recital under the leadership of the Christian Education Department, directed by Mrs. Antoinette Cody and Children’s Ministry leader Mrs. Jada Goodwin, inspiring the congregation with messages of hope and faith.
The week concluded with a powerful Resurrection Sunday service featuring guest preacher Bishop Daran Mitchell, Presiding Prelate of the Midwest Episcopal District of The A.M.E. Zion Church, accompanied by Missionary Supervisor Mrs. Lorraine Lynn Kennedy-Mitchell. The congregation was also honored by the presence of Bishop W. Darin Moore, Presiding Prelate of the Eastern North Carolina Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Zion Church, and Missionary Supervisor Mrs. Devieta C. Moore. Bishop Mitchell delivered a moving, first-person portrayal of Peter, reminding the congregation through Mark 16:7 that even after failure, doubt, and denial, “you are included.” His message brought the Gospel to life and stirred hearts throughout the sanctuary.
Pastor Rev. Dr. Derrill A. Blue also shared a powerful reminder of the significance of the resurrection, as the presence of God filled the house and lives were deeply impacted. From start to finish, Holy Week at Little Rock A.M.E. Zion Church was a beautiful expression of faith, worship, and community, declaring with joy and conviction: He has risen indeed.
