✨ Join us for an Inspiring Journey – Church Online Recap, Life Groups, Why Black Folks Love Cadillacs, and More! ✨

I hope this email finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to share some important updates regarding our upcoming events and extend a heartfelt invitation to join us online for spiritually enriching experiences.

Church Online Recap

Forget yards gained, true greatness for a running back comes after the first hit. They face defenders, get knocked down, but instead of giving up, they crave the ball again. Why? They understand the grit it takes to push through challenges.

That’s the spirit we need! When faced with opposition, don’t succumb to pressure. Just like a determined running back, keep moving forward.

Join us in-person this Sunday (February 18th, 10:30 AM Central) to explore how we can rise stronger than ever!

If you weren’t able to join us, let me assure you the next live service on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at 10:30 AM Central, promises another opportunity to be part of something truly miraculous.

And for our family far and wide, remember, we stream on all our platforms, ensuring you’re never too far from home.

Life Groups are in Session!

In the spirit of growth and fellowship, our life groups continue to be a beacon of light and learning, gathering in-person and online.

It’s with immense joy that I share with you my latest labor of love, “From Rubble to Renewal: The Nehemiah Strategy for Modern Times,” now available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle formats.

This work is more than a book; it’s a journey we embark on together towards rebuilding and renewing our spiritual walls in these modern times. Your support means the world to me and to our mission.

Text LIFEGROUP to 33777 and connect today.

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We’re Partnering With YouVersion Bible App

Exciting news for our community! Mars Hill is now partnering with YouVersion to introduce YouVersion Connect.

This platform is our new central hub for engaging with the Bible together, sharing insights, and supporting each other in our spiritual journeys.

Joining is simple, and the shared experience of growing in faith is profoundly impactful. Connect with us today, and let’s explore the Word together.

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Happy Black History Month

The History Behind Black Folks’ Love Of Cadillacs One thing about Black folks – we love us a good Cadillac. Whether it’s your old-school uncle or your favorite play cousin, you can bet at least one member of your family adores this car. Here’s the history of our Cadillac love affair.

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Black people and Cadillacs may seem like a match made in heaven, but the company once gave us hell. Cadillacs hit the market in 1902 but wasn’t recognized as a luxury brand until 1909. It began targeting “prestige crowds,” meaning there was an unwritten rule that no dealership would sell Black people a Cadillac.

Yet the cars were popular because they were excellent rides. Any Black person who wanted one had to buy one from a white person or pay a white person to purchase one on their behalf. So what changed?

Cadillac took a hit during the Great Depression. The brand suffered so much that it was on the verge of closing down. But then came a crucial decision.

In the 1930s, the company realized prestige wasn’t based on whiteness. It was based on green, and anyone who had the money for a Cadillac was sold one. And buy Cadillacs we did.

Black celebrities, teachers, social workers, and others purchased so many Cadillacs, there’s an industry myth that Black folks kept the brand from closing. And market research shows our dollars are still keeping the brand rolling as we prefer Cadillacs to other luxury cars.​​​​

This story isn’t just about cars, it’s about people sticking together. Even when things were tough, Black folks came together to achieve what they wanted. It shows that when we work as a team, we can overcome anything! So, the next time you see a fancy car, remember this story and the power of unity. What amazing things can we achieve if we work together?

These stories not only demand our awareness but also call us to be part of the solution in our communities and beyond.

Episode 2 Available! From Ashes to Grace: A Story of Unwavering Faith and the Rebirth of a Community

In other news, I was selected by Amazon’s Kindle Vella platform to write an episodic series (fiction) called From Ashes to Grace: A Story of Unwavering Faith and the Rebirth of a Community. In ‘From Ashes to Grace: A Story of Unwavering Faith and the Rebirth of a Community,’ experience the stirring journey of Pastor Elijah Thomas and his congregation.

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Facing their church’s near collapse, they tackle adversity to survive and thrive. This tale of unity, innovation, and indomitable spirit showcases their discovery of faith’s true essence in the modern world. Embark on their transformative path from despair to hope, where each challenge leads to a new beginning.

​An episode releases weekly and the first is available NOW! You can read it online or on your Kindle. Let me know what you think.This is a stretch for me since I primarily write non-fiction books. However, with 20+ years pastoring, I experience just about all a church could experience.

Join Us This Sunday

Finally, I extend an invitation to you, your family, and friends to join us this coming Sunday, February 18, 2024, at 10:30 AM for our church online. It’s more than a service; it’s a moment to come together, to be uplifted, and to feel the encompassing love and grace of our Lord. Let’s share in this experience, for every soul gathered strengthens our bond and amplifies our praise.

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Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast

Clarence Stowers’ leadership podcast recently released a new episode on time management and burnout prevention. The guest was Pastor Anthony Spencer who discussed his experience as a bi-vocational leader.

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Practical advice was provided on prioritizing, saying no, and recognizing burnout. The inspiring live session is now available as an on-demand podcast.

The recap encourages listening to find balance as a leader, with feedback welcome on takeaways.

Listen Now:

🍏 Apple Podcasts​

🟢 Spotify​

🌐 Or your favorite platform: Just search for ‘The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast.’

Your Support Means the World

Your prayers and financial contributions have been pivotal. Planning and executing in-person and online services takes 60-80 hours weekly. This dedication to excellence is made possible through your generous support. We are deeply thankful for your commitment to our church’s mission.

Your Support is a Blessing 🙏

Being a part of Mars Hill Anywhere means you’re part of a community dedicated to transformative and inclusive worship experiences.

We encourage you to donate financially to help Mars Hill Anywhere keep doing its good work and grow.

Your donations don’t just help us; they also spread our message of love and forgiveness to people in need, both in our local area and worldwide.

It’s easy to donate. Go to our safe online giving portal or call our hardworking team at 773-287-3535.

Every gift, big or small, helps us move forward with our goal and support people looking for spiritual food.

We appreciate you being a part of the Mars Hill Anywhere group.

We are blessed to be on this trip together, combining the best of in-person and online worship to create a spiritual experience that is transformative and open to everyone.

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With warmth and blessings,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to save the event to your calendar! Feel free to bring friends and family—let’s share the joy of this sacred night with our loved ones. Please let us know if you’re interested. Let’s come by replying to this email.