In Harmony
Using their God-given talents, Darren and Zay Allen are reaching into the Cordova community to form connections that matter.
Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Images by Ryan McGill
Darren and Zay Allen grew up in church as musicians and singers. The two met at The University of Alabama, and their lives intertwined as they began searching for their places in ministry.
"Music was always a very special part of my life growing up, and I knew I had a place in ministry; I just didn't always know what," says Darren. "But I've always thought the beauty of a song is that when you don't remember all the scriptures in times of trouble, those songs you sang in church come back up," says Darren.
When Darren and Zay's paths converged, their shared interests brought them together even further. They merged their musical talents Darren playing piano and Zay singing and soon realized their gifts complemented each other beautifully, both for their enjoyment and the glory of God. They sang in the university's gospel choir until they graduated with degrees in education. Eager to begin their lives together, they both started their careers Zay as a teacher and Darren in school administration.
Despite their professional lives, Darren and Zay wanted to continue their music ministry. They began serving in this capacity at First Baptist Church Northport shortly before their wedding. They faithfully served for the next eight years, with Zay expanding her love and knowledge of music and Darren feeling called to a pastoral role.
In 2003, the couple said goodbye to Northport as they were led to serve at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Cordova. Darren shifted his focus to pastoral duties, while Zay took charge of the music ministry, leading worship and involving the congregation in music and singing.
Founded in 1899, Mount Zion Baptist Church celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2024. Despite tornado damage in recent years, the church has stood its ground, serving as a haven of worship during difficult times and supporting the regrowth of the community. Today, Mount Zion Baptist is redefining how it serves both inside and outside the church.
Zay reflects on her role in the ministry, saying, "I love to think about these songs when I'm down. I'm often humming them in the classroom or walking through the hallway, and it helps keep me in the right headspace so I can be the teacher I need to be.
"I want everyone to be excited about what we're doing for Christ. The Lord has spoken to me a lot concerning my ministry. He bridged my love for choir and teaching science, allowing me to minister to others through both. He has been so faithful to me."
With their educational backgrounds, much of Darren and Zay's ministry has focused on reaching children in the community, involving them in church and worship, and teaching them how to live for Christ. They have witnessed immense spiritual growth within the church and community, seeing individuals take control of their lives by trusting God in all circumstances. Their ministry is, simply put, about giving people hope.
"God is always going to be King. And you can meet Him. You can speak to Him. He knows you personally," says Darren. "We give people accolades for the things they do and accomplish. But ultimately, we want everyone to see that they are made in the image and likeness of God. You have worth. Your life is worthwhile. Life and situations will often make you feel that you aren't valuable, and you may not be valuable to everybody on earth, but to God, you're worth it." 78