Minister Samuel T. Duren is a graduate of Hampton University class of 2000 with a B.A. in Sociology. God lead him back to Zion Baptist Church, his home church, after graduation to serve as Youth Minister under Pastor - Teacher Cleo R. Brand. Under Minister Brand, Samuel was ordained and licensed to preach. The Lord later called Minister Brand to another ministry in Georgia and called Pastor - Teacher Michael L. Hart, from Salem Baptist Church, to become the new Pastor - Teacher of Zion.  The Lord called home Minister Michael L. Hart after three awesome years of ministry. Through this loss God strengthened Minister Samuel and placed him to be Pastor- Teacher of Zion Baptist Church. The Church is continuing to be the "Greatest Loving Church in the World." Samuel wants to continue to see the power of God move within the community of Peoria and see their personal lives and families improve. He is an energetic person with great leadership who is looking to continue Building a Better Community.