Happy Tuesday Reader,

We’re so grateful for you.

Week after week, your encouragement, prayers, and participation remind us what a truly special community we have here at Mars Hill Baptist Church of Chicago—Mars Hill Anywhere.

Whether you join us in person or connect online, you’re part of something bigger than any one of us, and we can’t thank you enough for your support and love.

​1️⃣ Looking Back: Last Sunday, we explored how prophetic leaders adapt to changing times, drawing inspiration from the message, When the World Shifts, Prophetic Pastors Shift.

2️⃣ Looking Ahead: This Sunday, we’ll find encouragement in Hope in Turbulent Times, a message designed to strengthen your faith no matter your challenges.

3️⃣ A Quick Spiritual Boost: Don’t forget to check out the new 2-minute devotional on our mobile app—it’s the perfect pick-me-up for your day.

4️⃣ Life Groups Are Back! Connect, grow, and share life with your church family. Stay tuned for group times and topics.

5️⃣ New Podcast Alert: Tomorrow, be sure to catch the latest episode of our podcast.

6️⃣ Supporting Mars Hill: Discover how you can continue to help us spread the message of hope and love.

Let’s make 2025 a year of faith, growth, and community. Keep reading to learn how to get involved and inspired from the start!

When the World Shifts, Prophetic Pastors Shift

Last Sunday, I planned to wrap up our “Missed Calls” series with the message, New Can’t Fix You.

Yet, as the world shifts, so must our focus. Prophetic pastors are called to speak truth to power and offer hope, even when seeing how things might improve seems impossible.

It’s about trusting God’s direction and responding with faith and courage in challenging times.

Join Us for Worship This Sunday: Log On!

We’d love for you to“Log on” to join our online worship community this Sunday, February 9, 2025, at 10:30 AM CST.

🖥️ Online Service

• Time: 10:30 AM CST
• Platform: Mars Hill Anywhere (YouTube & Facebook Live)
• Perfect for our digital family joining from home

Bring your family, friends, or neighbors—we welcome everyone at Mars Hill Anywhere! No matter where you are, Mars Hill has a place for you.

Scan the QR code in the image above for more details and to connect with us quickly. We eagerly anticipate seeing you—in person or online!

Recap: Hope in Turbulent Times​
🔥 The world is shaking, but your faith doesn’t have to. 🔥

We’re surrounded by political division, financial instability, and cultural chaos in these uncertain times. Fear spreads faster than faith, and too often, we place our hope in things that can’t hold us steady.

But there’s a better way—unshakable hope rooted in Jesus.

📖 Key Scriptures:

• Romans 15:13 – The trustworthy source of hope 🙏
• Daniel 2:21 – Who’s really in control of world events 👑
• John 14:27 – How to receive lasting peace ☁️
• Isaiah 26:3 – The secret to perfect peace 🤯
• Hebrews 13:8 – Why Jesus never changes 🔥

💡 In This Message, You’ll Learn:

• Why fear thrives when faith is absent
• How to stop putting hope in temporary things
• The one decision that will anchor you in any storm
• How to fight back when anxiety tries to take over

If you missed it, you can watch the entire message here: Hope in Turbulent Times.

​

This Week’s Devotional: A Quick Spiritual Boost

A Quick Spiritual Boost​
We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a simple way to recharge your faith. Here’s this week’s devo: “Hope in Turbulent Times.” Take a moment to read it today—it’s the perfect pick-me-up to help you refocus and draw closer to God.

Don’t have the app yet? It’s easy to get started. Click here to download the Mars Hill Anywhere app and access devotionals, messages, and more from your phone.

📱 Access it now: Click the Devotional tab on our mobile app to dive in.

Let’s grow together as we learn to trust God’s timing and step boldly into the opportunities He’s prepared for us. Don’t miss it! 🙌

Life Groups Are Back!

Life Groups are perfect for connecting, growing, and sharing life with your church family. This season, we’re reading Growing Older & Wiser by Dale Larsen.

You may be unable to stop the clock, but that’s no reason to shy away! Age brings unique gifts and new growth opportunities.

In this nine-session study, Dale and Sandy Larsen help us explore the Bible’s perspective on aging. Together, we’ll see how God can use the wisdom gained through years of life experiences to make a meaningful impact. It’s a journey to discovering that your best days may still be ahead.

Ready to join? Sign up here, and we’ll share group times and topics soon. Don’t miss out on this chance to grow in faith and wisdom with your church family.

🎙️ New Podcast Alert – Thursday, February 6, 2025 🎙️

This week’s episode, Unshakable: Finding Stability in a Shifting World, dives into the tension between an unstable world and our deep need for something solid to hold onto. When everything around us feels uncertain, where do we turn?

Join us as we explore how to anchor ourselves in what never changes—God’s truth, His promises, and the unshakable foundation of faith.

🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss it—set a reminder and tune in this Thursday!

How to Support Mars Hill

Your support helps us spread hope and share God’s love with our community and beyond. Here are some ways you can get involved:

1. Give: Your financial gifts make a difference. You can give online through our secure website or use our mobile app.
2. Serve: We have many opportunities to serve, both in-person and virtually. Check out our website for current needs.
3. Pray: Please keep our church, leaders, and community in your prayers. Your prayers are powerful!
4. Invite: Do you know someone who might benefit from our message? Invite them to join us online or in person this Sunday.
5. Share: Help spread the word by sharing our social media posts or forwarding this email to a friend.

Your generosity keeps Mars Hill thriving and helps us reach more people with God’s love. If you feel led to contribute, here are some ways you can support our ministry:

1. ​Online Giving: Visit our website to set up one-time or recurring donations securely.
2. Text-to-Give: Text MHGIVE to 33777 and follow the prompts.
3. Sunday Offering: Drop your gift in the offering basket during our in-person services.
4. Mail: Send checks to:

Mars Hill Baptist Church
PO Box 6159
River Forest, IL 60305

Remember, every gift, big or small, makes a difference. Your support allows us to:

• Maintain our temporary church home
• Fund community outreach programs
• Provide resources for Life Groups
• Expand our online ministry
• Invest in equipment, tools, cameras, and software to grow our online campus.

We’re grateful for your partnership in spreading the Gospel and serving our community in person and online.

Please consider giving today and help us grow in faith and impact.

​Give Now!

Let’s step into 2025 confidently, knowing that God will guide us every step. I can’t wait to see you on January 5th as we begin this exciting journey together!

With faith and gratitude,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to “Log on” us online this Sunday at 10:30 AM Central for our online service. Set your reminder now! ⏰

Happy Saturday Reader,

I’d love for you to worship with us this Sunday—in person or online! Mars Hill Anywhere is all about creating a space where you can grow in faith, no matter where you are.

If you’re in the area, join us in person at our worship location

We’d love for you to “Pull up” and be with us in person or “Log on” to join our online worship community this Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 10:30 AM CST.

Here’s what you need to know:

✨ Date: Sunday, February 2, 2025

✨ Time: 10:30 AM CST

✨ Location:

Mars Hill Anywhere
7941 47th St
McCook, IL 60525

🖥️ Online Service

• Time: 10:30 AM CST
• Platform: Mars Hill Anywhere (YouTube & Facebook Live)
• Perfect for our digital family joining from home

Bring your family, friends, or neighbors—we welcome everyone at Mars Hill Anywhere! No matter where you are, Mars Hill has a place for you.

Scan the QR code in the image above for more details and to connect with us quickly. We eagerly anticipate seeing you—in person or online!

Whether you pull up or log on, this service is a powerful way to begin 2025 rooted in faith and fellowship.

New Message: New Can’t Fix You

Have you ever stared into a broken mirror, desperately trying to fix your reflection, only to realize the problem isn’t what you see—it’s the mirror itself?

That’s precisely how many of us approach life: constantly seeking new solutions, habits, and fresh starts to fix what feels broken inside. But here’s the transformative truth: no amount of self-improvement can accomplish what only God’s power can do.

In this Sunday’s message, “New Can’t Fix You,” we’ll explore why true transformation isn’t found in changing our circumstances or developing better habits but in surrendering to God’s transforming power.

He doesn’t just polish our cracks—He gives us an entirely new heart and spirit, creating a reflection that looks more and more like Him. Join us as we discover how to stop chasing what’s new and start embracing what’s true: God’s transformative work in your life.

How to Support Mars Hill

Your support helps us spread hope and share God’s love with our community and beyond. Here are some ways you can get involved:

1. Give: Your financial gifts make a difference. You can give online through our secure website or use our mobile app.
2. Serve: We have many opportunities to serve, both in-person and virtually. Check out our website for current needs.
3. Pray: Please keep our church, leaders, and community in your prayers. Your prayers are powerful!
4. Invite: Do you know someone who might benefit from our message? Invite them to join us online or in person this Sunday.
5. Share: Help spread the word by sharing our social media posts or forwarding this email to a friend.

Your generosity keeps Mars Hill thriving and helps us reach more people with God’s love. If you feel led to contribute, here are some ways you can support our ministry:

1. ​Online Giving: Visit our website to set up one-time or recurring donations securely.
2. Text-to-Give: Text MHGIVE to 33777 and follow the prompts.
3. Sunday Offering: Drop your gift in the offering basket during our in-person services.
4. Mail: Send checks to:

Mars Hill Baptist Church
PO Box 6159
River Forest, IL 60305

Remember, every gift, big or small, makes a difference. Your support allows us to:

• Maintain our temporary church home
• Fund community outreach programs
• Provide resources for Life Groups
• Expand our online ministry
• Invest in equipment, tools, cameras, and software to grow our online campus.

We’re grateful for your partnership in spreading the Gospel and serving our community in person and online.

Please consider giving today and help us grow in faith and impact.

​Give Now!

Let’s step into 2025 confidently, knowing that God will guide us every step. I can’t wait to see you on January 5th as we begin this exciting journey together!

With faith and gratitude,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to“pull up” or “Log on” us online this Sunday at 10:30 AM Central for our online service. Set your reminder now! ⏰

Hello Reader,

As we enter the new year 2025, I am filled with anticipation for the blessings God has in store for us.

This year, our guiding focus is to be “Rooted in Faith, Growing Anywhere,” drawing inspiration from Psalm 1:3 (New Living Translation):

When we firmly establish ourselves in God’s Word, growth becomes inevitable. This year, we aim to nurture our faith, positively impact, and strengthen our connections wherever God leads us.

In this week’s newsletter, you’ll discover valuable insights and resources to support your spiritual journey.

​1️⃣ A preview of our 2025 Vision: From Here to There, Rooted in Faith, Growing Anywhere, including the three pillars guiding us this year.

2️⃣ An invitation to “pull up” or “log on” on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 10:30 AM CST—whether in person or online.

3️⃣ A preview of Sunday’s message, “New Can’t Fix You.” This message explores how true transformation comes from surrendering to God’s power rather than relying on self-improvement efforts.

4️⃣ Message Recap: Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda: How to Stop Missing God’s Opportunities!

5️⃣ Weekly Devotional: Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda: Embracing God’s Divine Opportunities.

6️⃣ New Podcast Episode: Why You’re Not Responsible For Fixing Everyone’s Problems.

Let’s make 2025 a year of faith, growth, and community. Keep reading to learn how to get involved and inspired from the start!

2025 Vision: From Here to There, Rooted in Faith, Growing Anywhere

Our vision for 2025 is inspired by Psalm 1:3 (NLT):

This year, we’re focusing on three strategic pillars to guide our ministry:

1. Spiritual Growth & Discipleship

Goal: Equip individuals to grow deeper in their faith and develop spiritual resilience.

2. Community Impact & Connection

Goal: Strengthen our local and global communities through service and relationships.

3. Hybrid Excellence & Engagement

Goal: Optimize our digital and in-person ministries to meet people wherever they are.

Throughout the first quarter, I’ll explore this vision further and share ways you can contribute and serve with us. Let’s commence the year together with worship and community!

Join Us for Worship This Sunday: Pull Up or Log On!

We’d love for you to “Pull up” and be with us in person or “Log on” to join our online worship community this Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 10:30 AM CST.

Here’s what you need to know:

✨ Date: Sunday, February 2, 2025

✨ Time: 10:30 AM CST

✨ Location:

Mars Hill Anywhere
7941 47th St
McCook, IL 60525

🖥️ Online Service

• Time: 10:30 AM CST
• Platform: Mars Hill Anywhere (YouTube & Facebook Live)
• Perfect for our digital family joining from home

Bring your family, friends, or neighbors—we welcome everyone at Mars Hill Anywhere! No matter where you are, Mars Hill has a place for you.

Scan the QR code in the image above for more details and to connect with us quickly. We eagerly anticipate seeing you—in person or online!

Whether you pull up or log on, this service is a powerful way to begin 2025 rooted in faith and fellowship.

New Message: New Can’t Fix You

Have you ever stared into a broken mirror, desperately trying to fix your reflection, only to realize the problem isn’t what you see—it’s the mirror itself?

That’s precisely how many of us approach life: constantly seeking new solutions, habits, and fresh starts to fix what feels broken inside. But here’s the transformative truth: no amount of self-improvement can accomplish what only God’s power can do.

In this Sunday’s message, “New Can’t Fix You,” we’ll explore why true transformation isn’t found in changing our circumstances or developing better habits but in surrendering to God’s transforming power.

He doesn’t just polish our cracks—He gives us an entirely new heart and spirit, creating a reflection that looks more and more like Him. Join us as we discover how to stop chasing what’s new and start embracing what’s true: God’s transformative work in your life.

​

This Week’s Devotional: Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda: Embracing God’s Divine Opportunities

Are you ready to stop living in regret and start embracing the opportunities God places before you?

This week’s devotional, Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda: Embracing God’s Divine Opportunities, will inspire you to see how God can work through every moment—even the ones we wish we could redo.

📱 Access it now: Simply click the Devotional tab on our mobile app to dive in.

Let’s grow together as we learn to trust God’s timing and step boldly into the opportunities He’s prepared for us. Don’t miss it! 🙌

Weekly Spotlight: The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast 🎙️

I’m excited to share the latest episode of The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast this week! Whether you’re leading in your workplace, church, or community, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you grow and make a lasting impact.

💡 Episode Highlights:

• How to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

• Practical tips for leading with confidence and clarity.

• Encouragement to stay the course when leadership feels tough.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

Please take a moment to tune in and let me know your biggest takeaway. I’d love to hear how this episode inspires you!

How to Support Mars Hill

Your support helps us spread hope and share God’s love with our community and beyond. Here are some ways you can get involved:

1. Give: Your financial gifts make a difference. You can give online through our secure website or use our mobile app.
2. Serve: We have many opportunities to serve, both in-person and virtually. Check out our website for current needs.
3. Pray: Please keep our church, leaders, and community in your prayers. Your prayers are powerful!
4. Invite: Do you know someone who might benefit from our message? Invite them to join us online or in person this Sunday.
5. Share: Help spread the word by sharing our social media posts or forwarding this email to a friend.

Your generosity keeps Mars Hill thriving and helps us reach more people with God’s love. If you feel led to contribute, here are some ways you can support our ministry:

1. ​Online Giving: Visit our website to set up one-time or recurring donations securely.
2. Text-to-Give: Text MHGIVE to 33777 and follow the prompts.
3. Sunday Offering: Drop your gift in the offering basket during our in-person services.
4. Mail: Send checks to:

Mars Hill Baptist Church
PO Box 6159
River Forest, IL 60305

Remember, every gift, big or small, makes a difference. Your support allows us to:

• Maintain our temporary church home
• Fund community outreach programs
• Provide resources for Life Groups
• Expand our online ministry
• Invest in equipment, tools, cameras, and software to grow our online campus.

We’re grateful for your partnership in spreading the Gospel and serving our community in person and online.

Please consider giving today and help us grow in faith and impact.

​Give Now!

Let’s step into 2025 confidently, knowing that God will guide us every step. I can’t wait to see you on January 5th as we begin this exciting journey together!

With faith and gratitude,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to“pull up” or “Log on” us online this Sunday at 10:30 AM Central for our online service. Set your reminder now! ⏰

Happy Thursday Reader,

Wherever you’re reading this—whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go—you are a cherished part of our community. We believe in creating a space where everyone feels loved, connected, and encouraged to grow in faith.

This week, we are reminded of the beautiful truth that we are all united in Christ’s love, no matter where life takes us.

You’re not just part of a church; you’re part of a family that stands, prays, and supports one another through every season of life.

We’re so glad you’re here. Let’s dive into what’s happening in our community this week!

In this week’s newsletter, you’ll discover valuable insights and resources to support your spiritual journey.

​1️⃣ Recap of Sunday’s Worship Services (Live & Online)

2️⃣ Recap of Sunday’s Message: “Let Them Be”.

3️⃣ New Blog Post: “Let Them Be – Why You’re Not Responsible for Solving Everyone’s Problems.”

4️⃣ This Week’s 2-Minute Devotional: Take a moment to reflect and refocus with our bite-sized devotional, perfect for busy weeks.

5️⃣ How to Support Mars Hill

Let’s make 2025 a year of faith, growth, and community. Keep reading to learn how to get involved and inspired from the start!

Sunday Worship Recap

This past Sunday was indeed a special time!

I’m excited to share that our worship space was filled to capacity. We lifted our voices in worship, prayed as one, and received a meaningful Word.

At the same time, our online family joined in from all over, and our dedicated Digital Pastors kept the chat alive with encouragement and connection.

Whether in person or online, it’s impressive to see how God is at work through Mars Hill Anywhere.

Join Us for Worship This Sunday: Log On!

We’d love for you to “Log on” and join our online worship community this Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 10:30 AM CST.

Here’s what you need to know:

🖥️ Online Service

• Time: 10:30 AM CST
• Platform: Mars Hill Anywhere (YouTube & Facebook Live)
• Perfect for our digital family joining from home

Invite your family, friends, or neighbors—we welcome everyone at Mars Hill Anywhere! No matter where you are, Mars Hill has a place for you.

We eagerly anticipate seeing you—in person or online!

Whether you pull up or log on, this service is a powerful way to begin 2025 rooted in faith and fellowship.

Message Recap: Let Them Be: Why You’re Not Responsible for Fixing Everyone’s Journey

Are you feeling the pressure to fix someone else’s life?

In this message, we dive into Romans 14:12 and explore why God calls us to trust His timing instead of trying to control others.

Discover the freedom that comes when you stop carrying burdens that aren’t yours and start trusting God to do the work only He can do.

Learn how to release control, love others well, and find peace in letting go.

​

New Blog Post: “Let Them Be – Why You’re Not Responsible for Solving Everyone’s Problems”

Do you ever feel like you’re carrying the world’s weight on your shoulders?

In this week’s blog post, Let Them Be, we explore why it’s not your job to fix everyone’s problems—and how letting go can bring freedom to you and those you care about.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• How trying to solve everyone’s problems can lead to burnout.
• Biblical wisdom on trusting God to do the heavy lifting.
• Practical steps to set healthy boundaries without guilt.

You don’t have to be everyone’s savior—God has that covered. Take a moment to read and reflect on this message, which could change how you approach relationships.

​Read the full blog post here.​

This Week’s 2-Minute Devotional

Feeling overwhelmed by the weight of trying to fix everything? This week’s devotional, Let Them Be: Why You’re Not Responsible for Fixing Everyone’s Journey, reminds us to step back and trust God with what only He can handle.

In just two minutes, you’ll gain:

• A practical takeaway to help release the pressure of over-responsibility.
• Encouragement to focus on your journey while letting others navigate theirs.
• A brief but powerful scripture to keep you grounded throughout the week.

Take a moment to pause, reflect, and let this devotional bring clarity and peace to your busy life.

​Read The Devotional Here.​

How to Support Mars Hill

Your support helps us spread hope and share God’s love with our community and beyond. Here are some ways you can get involved:

1. Give: Your financial gifts make a difference. You can give online through our secure website or use our mobile app.
2. Serve: We have many opportunities to serve, both in-person and virtually. Check out our website for current needs.
3. Pray: Please keep our church, leaders, and community in your prayers. Your prayers are powerful!
4. Invite: Do you know someone who might benefit from our message? Invite them to join us online or in person this Sunday.
5. Share: Help spread the word by sharing our social media posts or forwarding this email to a friend.

Your generosity keeps Mars Hill thriving and helps us reach more people with God’s love. If you feel led to contribute, here are some ways you can support our ministry:

1. ​Online Giving: Visit our website to set up one-time or recurring donations securely.
2. Text-to-Give: Text MHGIVE to 33777 and follow the prompts.
3. Sunday Offering: Drop your gift in the offering basket during our in-person services.
4. Mail: Send checks to:

Mars Hill Baptist Church
PO Box 6159
River Forest, IL 60305

Remember, every gift, big or small, makes a difference. Your support allows us to:

• Maintain our temporary church home
• Fund community outreach programs
• Provide resources for Life Groups
• Expand our online ministry
• Invest in equipment, tools, cameras, and software to grow our online campus.

We’re grateful for your partnership in spreading the Gospel and serving our community in person and online.

Please consider giving today and help us grow in faith and impact.

​Give Now!

Let’s step into 2025 confidently, knowing that God will guide us every step. I can’t wait to see you on January 5th as we begin this exciting journey together!

With faith and gratitude,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

P.S. Don’t forget to “Log on” us online this Sunday at 10:30 AM Central for our online service. Set your reminder now! ⏰