A Message for Fathers
Fatherhood is rarely found in the grand, cinematic moments. Instead, it is built in the quiet consistency of daily life: the words of encouragement after a hard day, the patience shown during a mistake, and the strength found in prayer when the path ahead is uncertain. These acts of love may seem small in the moment, but they create a foundation of faith and security that lasts a lifetime. To our fathers: thank you for the sacrifices you make, many of which go unseen. Thank you for leading with integrity and for showing us what it means to walk with grace. Your influence reaches further than you know, shaping the character and the spirits of those you lead. As you enjoy this weekend with your families, may you feel deeply appreciated and renewed. We pray that God continues to grant you wisdom, endurance, and a heart full of joy as you navigate the sacred calling of fatherhood. "The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him." — Proverbs 20:7
A Message of Love and Comfort This Father's Day
Father's Day can bring with it a complicated mix of emotions — and for some of us, this Sunday may feel less like a celebration and more like a quiet ache. Whether you are missing a father who has passed into glory, navigating life after divorce or separation, raising children on your own, or simply carrying the weight of an absent relationship, please know this: you are seen, you are loved, and you are not alone.
This Father's Day, may Steele Hill A.M.E. Zion Church be a place where every family — in every shape and season — finds warmth, welcome, and the reminder that we belong to one another. Let us wrap our arms a little tighter around those for whom this day is tender, and let us be, together, the hands and heart of our Father in heaven
If needed, schedule an appointment for Dad:
Key Health Focus Areas
- Heart Health: Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among men. Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and maintaining physical activity are essential preventive measures,
- Cancer Awareness: Prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers are significant threats. Early screenings and education improve survival rates,
- Mental Health: Men are less likely to seek help for depression, anxiety, or stress due to societal stigma. Men’s Health Month encourages open conversations and professional support,
- Diabetes and Lifestyle Diseases: Regular monitoring, healthy eating, and exercise help prevent or manage diabetes and related complications,
- Injury Prevention: Men are more prone to accidents and risk-taking behaviors. Promoting safety awareness and responsible habits reduces preventable injuries
Do you know a Dad who is trying to "get it together?"
A Father's Way offers education and services uniquely tailored for fathers trying to rebuild their lives and their families. Serving Chester, Lancaster, York, and Union counties! A Father's Way Lancaster 105 South Wylie Street Lancaster, SC 29720 803.283.3444 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Rock Hill 1380 Ebenezer Road Rock Hill, SC 29730 803.372.6162 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Click here for Website
The Lancaster District
Steele Hill 2026 Man of Distinction!
Brother Gerald Demarcus "Marc/Horn Man" Stinson
About Marc
- Marc is the oldest of 4 children to Robert and Mary Stinson,
- Father of 3 sons: Dean, Davarious, JQuan,
- Companion: Jennifer
- Marc loves basketball and football.
- Coached for 18 years with Lancaster County youth.
- Marc also loves playing music for God.
- Church Involvement: Musician (Trumpet) & Trustee
- Community Involvement: Coached basketball and football for Buford High School and Lancaster County Recreation
- Hobbies: Barber (Self-Taught), Playing Music (Trumpet), Lawn Service, Working on his trucks
- Favorite Scripture: Psalm 34:1 “I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth."
The Men of Distinction is a fundraiser sponsored by the Lancaster District Christian Education Department. Prayers of support for these Men of Distinction and the Lancaster District Christian Education Department.
Submitted by: Tia Johnson, President, Steele Hill CED
In Case You Missed It!
Class of 2026 & Student Recognition Sunday
In an effort to protect the privacy of our minors, this YouTube link is private, only available to anyone who has this link!
The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth
(Courtesy of National Museum of African American History & Culture)
- Freedom for enslaved people in Texas was officially announced on June 19, 1865, by Union troops in Galveston Bay, leading to the celebration of "Juneteenth."
- Juneteenth is recognized as the nation’s second independence day, celebrated primarily within the African American community but largely unknown to many Americans.
Understanding the Significance of June 19, 1865
Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control. As a result, in the westernmost Confederate state of Texas, enslaved people would not be free until much later. Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as "Juneteenth," by the newly freed people in Texas. The post-emancipation period known as Reconstruction (1865-1877) marked an era of great hope, uncertainty, and struggle for the nation as a whole. Formerly enslaved people immediately sought to reunify families, establish schools, run for political office, push radical legislation and even sue slaveholders for compensation. Given the 200+ years of enslavement, such changes were nothing short of amazing. Not even a generation out of slavery, African Americans were inspired and empowered to transform their lives and their country.
A Celebration of Freedom
Juneteenth marks our country’s second independence day. Although it has long been celebrated in the African American community, this monumental event remains largely unknown to most Americans. The historical legacy of Juneteenth shows the value of never giving up hope in uncertain times. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a community space where this spirit of hope lives on. A place where historical events like Juneteenth are shared and new stories with equal urgency are told.
Juneteenth and Food
The color red holds great historical and spiritual significance in African traditions. When enslaved Africans were forcibly brought to the United States, they carried these traditions with them, and over time, red foods became a meaningful way to honor those who came before and those who fought for freedom and justice. During Juneteenth, red foods serve as a tribute to the bloodshed and sacrifices of enslaved people, a reminder of their endurance and the struggle for liberation. But they also represent joy, vitality and the celebration of freedom. The presence of these foods at cookouts and gatherings is a way to connect generations, preserving traditions while sharing history with future ones. It is a time of remembrance, joy and community, and one of its most striking traditions is the presence of red foods and drinks at celebrations. From barbecue, red velvet cake and watermelon to strawberry soda and sorrel tea, red foods have become a powerful symbol of freedom, resilience and cultural heritage in African American communities. (eatingwell.com)
In honor of Juneteenth, Fred is planning to make some sorrel tea! (If it does not turn out right, he has a couple packs of red Kool - Ade)
Sunday School Lesson
Lesson 3 ~ June 21, 2026 Adult Unit I ~ Faithful Witnesses Testify to God's Promise Adult General Lesson Title: Jonathan and David, A Noble Friendship Adult Topic: A Forever Bond Background Scriptures 1 Samuel 18: 1-4; 19: 1 - 7; 20: 1 - 42; 2 Samuel 1: 17 - 27; 21:7 Home Daily Reading Friday, June 19 ~ John 15: 9 - 17 The Greatest Love Saturday, June 20 ~ 1 Samuel 20: 16 - 17, 32 - 34, 42 Fierce and Faithful Friends Sunday, June 21 ~ 2 Samuel 1:17, 19 - 27 A Death in the Family
Summer Sermon Series
(June 7) Summer Jam Text #1: Psalm 23:1
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (KJV)
Tuesday, June 23 Lesson: Ambition
June 19 ~ James Belk June 30 ~ Mae Barber
May the Works I've Done...
Barack and Michelle Obama Reveal Their First Portrait Together for the Obama Presidential Library
Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have unveiled their first portrait together ahead of the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. The detailed, layered artwork was created by Nigerian-born, Los Angeles-based artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby. Titled The Obamas: Springing Forth, it will be on view in the main lobby of the museum. “This piece reflects so many chapters of Michelle and my story, and we’re thrilled that it will be on display in the Hope and Change lobby at the Obama Presidential Center starting this Juneteenth,” said the 44th President, who joked about the artist not touching up his greying hair during the unveiling.
Communinity
After a few weeks off, I’m heading back to Charlotte Motor Speedway for Rounds 5 and 6 of the Annual Cook Out Summer Shootout. Thank you Steele Hill church family for coming out on June 8th and 9th and supporting me on my first race. If you weren’t able to make it to the last race, here’s your chance to experience the excitement firsthand! I would love to invite my church family to come out, cheer me on, and be part of another incredible night of racing. Race Day Details Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Pkwy S Concord, NC 28027 United States
Date: June 29th & 30th @ 6pm
- On June 29th, if you Wear animal print, get $5 off - On June 30th, 1st Responders & Military get in FREE Tickets Adults: $13 Kids 12 and under get in FREE! I truly appreciate all your support, prayers, and to see familiar faces in the stands once again. Thank you so much for your support and consideration.
It truly means a lot! Best, Jalin Taylor
Shannon Lindsay is asking you to vote for her daughter, Melonie Lindsay. Melonie is a contestant in the "Favorite Chef" contest. The winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000.00! Since 2023, Favorite Chef® has ignited the culinary world, bringing together seasoned chefs, passionate home cooks, and creative foodies for an unforgettable showdown of skill, creativity, and heart. With national recognition and a coveted feature in Taste of Home—America’s #1 cooking magazine—on the line, this is where culinary talent rises.
Credits:
Created with images by sarjana - "World's greatest dad elegant cursive text design" • Habiba Noor Jannat - "June is Men's Health Month banner featuring blue awareness ribbon on open hand" • Magryt - "Words HAPPY BIRTHDAY made of golden inflatable balloons isolated on white background.,Gold foil helium balloons forming phrase.,Birthday congratulations concept, HBD phrase, happy birthday wishes" • glowonconcept - "watercolor hand lettering happy anniversary typography illustration" • ananaline - "Silhouette the son is riding his father's neck."