Hey, Mars Hill Anywhere family, I hope your week has been filled with God’s goodness! Let’s recap this past Sunday – the energy in our in-person service was awesome. In “Cutting Ties: When to Mend, When to End,” we dug into when it’s wise to walk away and when we need to be those rebuilders instead of tossing relationships at the first sign of trouble. This is a tough balance, but God helps us find that wisdom! If you need to revisit that message, it’s on replay now. We love your support both in-person and online!
Life GroupsSpeaking of support, our Life Groups are going strong! Right now, we’re exploring the “From Rubble to Renewal: The Nehemiah Strategy for Modern Times” series based on Nehemiah – such relevant lessons for building something lasting in this challenging world.
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. Copies are available on Amazon if you need one!
Live on Kindle | From Ashes to Grace Short StoryNow, for those keeping up with my Kindle Vella story, “From Ashes to Grace”, get ready! Episode 3 drops on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. Follow the powerful journey of Pastor Elijah and his congregation – mirroring our own Mars Hill struggles and victories. See their unwavering faith transform even the toughest trials into incredible triumphs. This story will ignite your heart!
Save The Date | March 10, 2024Join us for our next in-person service on Sunday (March 10, 2024, at 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, March 10, 2024, at 10:30 AM Central, promises another opportunity to be part of something truly miraculous.
We’re Partnering With YouVersion Bible AppExciting 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.
These Black Country Artists Walked So Beyoncé Could RunBeyoncé broke the internet when she announced a new country album dropping this year, adding to a long history of Black country music artists who have shaped the genre. Here are a few you should know.
In the 1920s, DeFord Bailey broke through racial barriers and carved out his own path. With his jaw-dropping harmonica skills, he became a star and helped launch the Grand Ole Opry radio show, reaching millions of listeners across the United States.
Lesley Riddle revolutionized the country genre by blending African-American blues and Appalachian folk music. After losing two fingers in an accident, he developed a unique style of strumming and taught it to the Carter family, later known as “the first family of country music.” Country music wouldn’t be the same without Riddle’s creative genius.
A sharecropper’s son turned pitcher for the Negro Baseball League, Charley Pride was country music’s first Black superstar, the first Black inductee into the Grand Ole Opry, and the first Black country artist to be chosen Country Music Artist of the Year. His fans enjoyed his warm baritone and guitar virtuosity for more than 50 years until his death in 2020.
Linda Martell started in R&B before moving to country in 1969. Though she had three consecutive charting songs and was the first Black woman to perform solo at the Grand Ole Opry, she was heckled by audiences and ignored by her label. In the 1990s, she quit the scene and returned to private life in South Carolina.
Black creativity has produced musical masterpieces. Despite the racism and backlash these musicians faced, they didn’t allow it to stifle their creative spirits. Neither should we. Clarence Stowers Leadership PodcastClarence 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.
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: 🟢 Spotify 🌐 Or your favorite platform: Just search for ‘The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast.’ Your Support Means the WorldYour 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 🙏Look, as you guys know, making ministry happen ain’t cheap! It’s through your generosity we can make this in-person/online community work. If you feel led to give, every bit helps us create impactful messages and keep pushing that mission forward. 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.
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. |