Happy Hump Day Reader!

I pray this message finds you surrounded by love, peace, and the warmth of community.

As we continue to walk this journey together, may our hearts remain united in faith, hope, and encouragement, no matter where we are.

Sunday’s service was special. God met us, faith rose, and you showed up in love and service.

Thank you for leaning in and inviting others to experience it.

Teaching Highlight: Sermon Replay – “Burnout Ain’t Holy: Serving God Without Losing Your Soul”

Teaching Highlight: You’re Not Doing It For God If It’s Destroying Your Soul

If the enemy can’t get you to sin, he will settle for keeping you busy.

This week, I shared a timely word on how to serve God without running your soul into the ground.

What You’ll Learn

• Why you are not called to carry it all (Exodus 18:13–23)
• How rest is an act of trust (Isaiah 30:15)
• Why the right yoke will fit (Matthew 11:28–30)
• How only the Shepherd restores (Psalm 23:2–3)

📺 Watch the whole message and breathe again on YouTube:

Church was never meant to be a buffet.

Too many people stall out spiritually, not because they don’t care, but because they’ve been handed a menu instead of a map.

This week, I taught on why your faith might feel stuck and how to get traction again.

📺 Watch the replay​

🧭 Download your personal M.A.P.​

A 4-step rhythm to help you move from listening to growing.

Everything is right here!

🧭 What’s Next For Mars Hill?

We are moving decisively toward a permanent facility. When we sold our building four years ago, we trusted God’s leading.

Now, with energy costs straining many congregations, we can see how He protected us.

Instead of pouring funds into rising utilities, we’ve been able to direct resources into people, discipleship, and mission.

That choice didn’t set us back. It set us up so we can take the next step with strength, faith, and financial clarity.

Our Strategic Transition: Monthly Celebrations

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, we will be hosting our next Super Sunday Service at 10:30 AM CST.

Here’s What You Need to Know This Week:

What: Sunday Worship (Online Only)

When: Sunday, August 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM CST

Where: Online at MarsHillChicago.org
​Watch on Facebook: @MarsHillChicago​
Watch on YouTube: ClarenceStowersTV​

Also Worth Noting:

✍🏽 Latest on Substack: The Month Everything Went Wrong (And Why I’m Glad It Did).

This one hit a nerve. If you’re always holding it together for everyone else, this is for you.

👉 Read the article​

📱 Short on Time? I Got You

Check out my new YouTube Shorts. These are quick, honest, and built for real life.

👉 youtube.com/@ClarenceStowersTV/shorts​

Everything you need to grow spiritually is right on your phone. We call it #ChurchInYourPocket.

⬇️ Download the Mars Hill App​

Moving Forward Together: Invest in Hope, Impact, and Community

We’re at a pivotal moment in our church’s journey.

As part of our community, you know we’re more than just Sunday gatherings; we’re about creating lasting impact.

Your support helps us extend a helping hand, create meaningful worship experiences, invest in our kids and teens, and build spaces for real connection.

We’re not just building a church; we’re creating a home where people find hope, healing, and a sense of purpose.

This special campaign ensures we can continue to grow our ministries both online and in-person, while our regular tithes and offerings secure our physical space.

How You Can Be Part of This Journey

We’re aiming to raise $20,000 by summer through our Moving Forward Together initiative. Specifically, we’re hoping for:

• 30 people to contribute $500
• 50 people to contribute $300

These funds will directly enhance our Sunday worship space, cover our weekly expenses, launch new youth and children’s programs, and create consistent mid-week gatherings that strengthen our community.

​Be Part of the Future – Give Today!

How to Support Mars Hill

Your generosity fuels everything we do, from in-person gatherings to digital discipleship. If you’ve been encouraged by this ministry, here are a few simple ways to give and get involved:

Give:

Support the mission securely at marshillchicago.org/giving, in our mobile app, or by texting MHGIVE to 33777. You can also mail checks to:

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

Serve:

Use your gifts to make a difference online or in person. Visit our site to see current serving opportunities.

Pray:

Lift up our leaders, our church family, and the people we’re reaching. Prayer is a powerful form of participation.

Invite & Share:

Send this email to a friend, invite someone to service, or repost something that encouraged you. Every share matters.

You’re helping us reach people with hope, truth, and love, whether they’re across town or across the country.

With love and expectation,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

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

Happy Thursday, Mars Hill Family,

Isn’t it amazing what God is doing in our Mars Hill Anywhere family? I want to share some exciting vision, answer your questions, and invite you to something special.

📣 Zoom Recap: Prophetic Positioning

Missed our leadership call? We laid out a bold, digital-first strategy that positions Mars Hill Anywhere for a debt-free future.

Zoom Recap Highlights:

• ✅ Monthly gatherings = More ministry momentum, less overhead
• ✅ A clear, 3-year roadmap toward owning our permanent facility
• ✅ 377+ annual connection points through digital tools

📲 Catch the full Zoom replay & notes here.​

🙌🏾 Welcome to “Super Sunday”

This weekend, Super Sunday returns—and you’re a crucial part, whether you join in-person or online!

What Is Super Sunday?​
Super Sunday is our monthly in-person gathering where the whole Mars Hill Anywhere family comes together with one purpose: to worship, connect, and move forward together.

Why Only Once a Month?​
We’re not shrinking; we’re sharpening.
Meeting monthly lets us:

• Maximize our time and resources
• Deliver a powerful worship experience
• Reach hundreds weekly through digital discipleship
• Prevent burnout for our leaders and volunteers

What to Expect on Super Sunday

• A relevant, scripture-based message for real life
• Powerful worship for all—both in-person and online
• Real connection with people on the same journey
• Practical next steps for faith and growth

A Hybrid Experience by Design​
Whether you join in the room or online, you’re part of Mars Hill Anywhere. Every Super Sunday is live-streamed, so you never miss out.

Here’s How You Can Join

• 📍 Location: 7941 47th St, McCook, IL
• 🕥 Time: 10:30 AM CST
• 📆 Next Super Sunday: August 10, 2025

Can’t attend in-person? Join us from anywhere:

• ​Watch on MarsHillChicago.org​
• ​Watch on Facebook​
• ​Watch on YouTube​

In-Person Perks:

• Meet new friends
• Safe, welcoming space
• Find a life group, serve, and grow!

Online Community Features:

• Live chat during the service
• Share your prayer needs
• Real-time team support and encouragement

Teaching Moment: Drop the Mask & Find Real Rest

What’s the point of looking strong if you’re dying inside?

So many of us feel the pressure to “look okay” to wear a mask, push through, and hide the pain with a smile. But is that really a strength, or are we just covering up what needs to be healed?

Last Sunday, I shared a raw and urgent message about dropping the mask and coming to Jesus for real rest and healing. No performance required.

🔑 What You’ll Learn:

• You’re not just tired. You’re tired of pretending. (see Matthew 11:28)
• Survival mode isn’t a strength. (Psalm 32:3)
• God can’t heal what you keep hiding. (Psalm 32:5)

📺 Watch the sermon: Drop the Mask, Jesus Heals What You Reveal​

💬 Join the Conversation:​
What’s one way this message challenged or encouraged you? Hit reply or drop a comment. I’d love to hear from you..

📺 Watch the full replay on YouTube:

🧭 What’s Next For Mars Hill?

I’m writing to share an exciting announcement that represents both prophetic wisdom and strategic vision for our church’s future.

Today, we’re taking a bold step that will accelerate our journey toward owning our own permanent facility.

Prophetic Wisdom in Action

Four years ago, when we sold our building, some questioned the timing.

Today, as energy costs devastate church budgets nationwide, we see God’s profound wisdom in that decision.

While churches across America struggle with electricity bills that have doubled and gas costs that have tripled, Mars Hill Anywhere stands completely free from these financial burdens.

Thank God we were prophetic enough to avoid these crushing costs!

We didn’t just dodge a crisis, we positioned ourselves for unprecedented opportunity.

Our Strategic Transition: Monthly Celebrations

Beginning Sunday, August 10, 2025, we’re transitioning from twice-monthly to monthly in-person celebration services.

We’re calling it “Super Sunday.”

This strategic move saves us $10,200 annually, money that goes directly into our Moving Forward Together Fund.

This isn’t about doing less; it’s about building more strategically.

Moving Forward Together: Invest in Hope, Impact, and Community

In conclusion, I would like to discuss something close to all our hearts: our Moving Forward Together Campaign.

We’re at a pivotal moment in our church’s journey.

As someone who’s chosen to be part of our community, you know we’re more than just Sunday gatherings; we’re about creating lasting impact in people’s lives.

Your support does something remarkable. It helps us:

• Extend a helping hand to those who need it most
• Create meaningful worship experiences (both online and in-person)
• Invest in our kids and teens through vibrant ministry programs
• Build spaces where real connection happens

We’re not just building a church; we’re creating a home where people find hope, healing, and a sense of purpose.

And here’s the exciting part: while our regular tithes and offerings will go toward securing our own physical space, this special campaign will ensure that we can continue to grow our ministries both online and in-person.

How You Can Be Part of This Journey

We’re aiming to raise $20,000 by summer through our Moving Forward Together initiative. Specifically, we’re hoping for:

• 30 people to contribute $500
• 50 people to contribute $300

These funds will directly enhance our Sunday worship space, cover our weekly expenses, launch new youth and children’s programs, and create consistent mid-week gatherings that strengthen our community.

​Be Part of the Future – Give Today!

How to Support Mars Hill

Your generosity fuels everything we do, from in-person gatherings to digital discipleship. If you’ve been encouraged by this ministry, here are a few simple ways to give and get involved:

Give:

Support the mission securely at marshillchicago.org/giving, in our mobile app, or by texting MHGIVE to 33777. You can also mail checks to:

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

Serve:

Use your gifts to make a difference online or in person. Visit our site to see current serving opportunities.

Pray:

Lift up our leaders, our church family, and the people we’re reaching. Prayer is a powerful form of participation.

Invite & Share:

Send this email to a friend, invite someone to service, or repost something that encouraged you. Every share matters.

You’re helping us reach people with hope, truth, and love, whether they’re across town or across the country.

With love and expectation,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

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

Happy Hump Day Reader!

Some weeks feel heavier than others. And yet, here you are. Still showing up. Still open. Still growing.

That says a lot about your faith, your grit, and your heart.

This past weekend, our family gathered in Elkhart, Indiana, for a reunion that brought together more than 200 people from every generation.

It was more than a celebration. It reminded me that legacy matters. Connection matters. And the love we pass down is one of the greatest gifts we can give.

That made this Sunday’s message from Min. Marcie Stowers-Wilson feels especially timely.

Teaching Highlight: Sermon Replay – “God is Our Father”

f you’ve ever felt like you are carrying more than your share of life’s weight, Min. Marcie has a word for you.

In her powerful message, “God Is Our Father,” she reminds us what it means to rest in God’s identity, especially when your own feels fragile.

Whether you are facing disappointment, pressure, or just trying to hold it all together, this message will meet you right where you are.

📺 Watch the full replay on YouTube:

🧭 What’s Next For Mars Hill?

I’m writing to share an exciting announcement that represents both prophetic wisdom and strategic vision for our church’s future.

Today, we’re taking a bold step that will accelerate our journey toward owning our own permanent facility.

Prophetic Wisdom in Action

Four years ago, when we sold our building, some questioned the timing.

Today, as energy costs devastate church budgets nationwide, we see God’s profound wisdom in that decision.

While churches across America struggle with electricity bills that have doubled and gas costs that have tripled, Mars Hill Anywhere stands completely free from these financial burdens.

Thank God we were prophetic enough to avoid these crushing costs!

We didn’t just dodge a crisis, we positioned ourselves for unprecedented opportunity.

Our Strategic Transition: Monthly Celebrations

Beginning Sunday, August 10, 2025, we’re transitioning from twice-monthly to monthly in-person celebration services.

We’re calling it “Super Sunday.”

This strategic move saves us $10,200 annually, money that goes directly into our Moving Forward Together Fund.

This isn’t about doing less; it’s about building more strategically.

Here’s What You Need to Know This Week:

What: Sunday Worship (Online Only)

When: Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central

Where: Online at MarsHillChicago.org
​Watch on Facebook: @MarsHillChicago​
Watch on YouTube: ClarenceStowersTV​

Also Worth Noting:

✍🏽 Latest on Substack: “You’re Not Behind. You’re Just Distracted by Someone Else’s Life”

This one hit a nerve. If you’re always holding it together for everyone else, this is for you.

👉 Read the article​

📱 Short on Time? I Got You

Check out my new YouTube Shorts. These are quick, honest, and built for real life.

👉 youtube.com/@ClarenceStowersTV/shorts​

Everything you need to grow spiritually right from your phone. We call it #ChurchInYourPocket.

⬇️ Download the Mars Hill App​

Moving Forward Together: Invest in Hope, Impact, and Community

In conclusion, I would like to discuss something close to all our hearts: our Moving Forward Together Campaign.

We’re at a pivotal moment in our church’s journey.

As someone who’s chosen to be part of our community, you know we’re more than just Sunday gatherings; we’re about creating lasting impact in people’s lives.

Your support does something remarkable. It helps us:

• Extend a helping hand to those who need it most
• Create meaningful worship experiences (both online and in-person)
• Invest in our kids and teens through vibrant ministry programs
• Build spaces where real connection happens

We’re not just building a church; we’re creating a home where people find hope, healing, and a sense of purpose.

And here’s the exciting part: while our regular tithes and offerings will go toward securing our own physical space, this special campaign will ensure that we can continue to grow our ministries both online and in-person.

How You Can Be Part of This Journey

We’re aiming to raise $20,000 by summer through our Moving Forward Together initiative. Specifically, we’re hoping for:

• 30 people to contribute $500
• 50 people to contribute $300

These funds will directly enhance our Sunday worship space, cover our weekly expenses, launch new youth and children’s programs, and create consistent mid-week gatherings that strengthen our community.

​Be Part of the Future – Give Today!

How to Support Mars Hill

Your generosity fuels everything we do, from in-person gatherings to digital discipleship. If you’ve been encouraged by this ministry, here are a few simple ways to give and get involved:

Give:

Support the mission securely at marshillchicago.org/giving, in our mobile app, or by texting MHGIVE to 33777. You can also mail checks to:

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

Serve:

Use your gifts to make a difference online or in person. Visit our site to see current serving opportunities.

Pray:

Lift up our leaders, our church family, and the people we’re reaching. Prayer is a powerful form of participation.

Invite & Share:

Send this email to a friend, invite someone to service, or repost something that encouraged you. Every share matters.

You’re helping us reach people with hope, truth, and love, whether they’re across town or across the country.

With love and expectation,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

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

Happy Hump Day Reader!

Every time I go to The Cheesecake Factory, I feel overwhelmed.

Not because of the crowd or the prices, but that massive menu. It’s packed with options, but I always end up picking the same thing.

That’s how church feels for a lot of people: too many choices, but no clear direction.

Teaching Highlight: Sermon Replay – “This Is Why You’re Not Growing Spiritually (No One Told You This)”

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the “right things” but still not growing spiritually, this message is for you.

In Sunday’s teaching, I shared why too many churches hand out spiritual menus instead of maps and why that leaves people stuck.

A menu offers options. A map shows you the way.

If you’re tired of picking and choosing but not seeing progress, this word will help you get clarity and traction.

🎥 Watch the replay here

​This Is Why You’re Not Growing Spiritually (No One Told You This)​

🧭 Tired of Spiritual Menus? Try the M.A.P.S. Route

If you’ve ever walked away from a sermon thinking, “That was good,” but had no idea what to do next, this is for you.

The M.A.P.S. Route is a 4-step rhythm designed for people who are tired of feeling stuck. It helps you move from just listening to actually growing. No more spiritual overload. Just one clear next step, one truth to apply, one person to walk with, and one way to serve.

It’s simple. It’s repeatable. And it starts now.

🗺️ Click below to download the M.A.P.S. Route

$0.00 M.A.P.S. Route The M.A.P.S. Route is a simple 4-step spiritual growth framework designed to move you from just attending church to… Read more Get it now!

​

Here’s What You Need to Know This Week:

What: Sunday Worship (Online Only)

When: Sunday, July 27, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central

Where: Online at MarsHillChicago.org
​Watch on Facebook: @MarsHillChicago​
Watch on YouTube: ClarenceStowersTV​

Also Worth Noting:

📺 Catch the Replay

“This Is Why You’re Not Growing Spiritually (No One Told You This)”

If you missed Sunday’s message, watch it now. It’s not another hype sermon. It’s a wake-up call.

👉 Watch it here​

📖 New Devotional Now Available

Go deeper with this week’s message through a short, guided devotional.

👉 Start the devotional​
​

✍🏽 Latest on Substack: “Why Being the Strong One Is Killing You”

This one hit a nerve. If you’re always holding it together for everyone else, this is for you.

👉 Read the article​

📱 Short on Time? I Got You

Check out my new YouTube Shorts. These are quick, honest, and built for real life.

👉 youtube.com/@ClarenceStowersTV/shorts​

Everything you need to grow spiritually right from your phone. We call it #ChurchInYourPocket.

⬇️ Download the Mars Hill App​

Moving Forward Together: Invest in Hope, Impact, and Community

In conclusion, I would like to discuss something close to all our hearts: our Moving Forward Together Campaign.

We’re at a pivotal moment in our church’s journey.

As someone who’s chosen to be part of our community, you know we’re more than just Sunday gatherings; we’re about creating lasting impact in people’s lives.

Your support does something remarkable. It helps us:

• Extend a helping hand to those who need it most
• Create meaningful worship experiences (both online and in-person)
• Invest in our kids and teens through vibrant ministry programs
• Build spaces where real connection happens

We’re not just building a church; we’re creating a home where people find hope, healing, and a sense of purpose.

And here’s the exciting part: while our regular tithes and offerings will go toward securing our own physical space, this special campaign will ensure that we can continue to grow our ministries both online and in-person.

How You Can Be Part of This Journey

We’re aiming to raise $20,000 by summer through our Moving Forward Together initiative. Specifically, we’re hoping for:

• 30 people to contribute $500
• 50 people to contribute $300

These funds will directly enhance our Sunday worship space, cover our weekly expenses, launch new youth and children’s programs, and create consistent mid-week gatherings that strengthen our community.

​Be Part of the Future – Give Today!

How to Support Mars Hill

Your generosity fuels everything we do, from in-person gatherings to digital discipleship. If you’ve been encouraged by this ministry, here are a few simple ways to give and get involved:

Give:

Support the mission securely at marshillchicago.org/giving, in our mobile app, or by texting MHGIVE to 33777. You can also mail checks to:

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

Serve:

Use your gifts to make a difference online or in person. Visit our site to see current serving opportunities.

Pray:

Lift up our leaders, our church family, and the people we’re reaching. Prayer is a powerful form of participation.

Invite & Share:

Send this email to a friend, invite someone to service, or repost something that encouraged you. Every share matters.

You’re helping us reach people with hope, truth, and love, whether they’re across town or across the country.

With love and expectation,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

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

Happy Tuesday Reader!

I don’t say this often, but this past Sunday felt like a wake-up call for all of us.

I preached a message that’s been pressing on me for months: “The Most Ignored (but Needed) Verse in Church Today.” It’s rooted in 1 Chronicles 12:32 and the reminder that real leaders don’t just follow trends, they read the times and know what to do.

A church stuck in 1995 won’t survive in a 2025 world.

Here’s What You Need to Know This Week:

What: Sunday Worship (Online Only)

When: Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central

Where: Online at MarsHillChicago.org
​Watch on Facebook: @MarsHillChicago​
Watch on YouTube: ClarenceStowersTV​

💡 Teaching Highlight

Message Title: The Most Ignored (but Needed) Verse in Church Today.​

Scripture Focus: 1 Chronicles 12:32 (NLT)

This past Sunday, I preached a message I believe every modern believer and ministry leader needs to hear.

We looked at the Sons of Issachar, leaders who understood the signs of the times and knew what to do.

I shared why the Church cannot afford to be stuck in 1995, thinking that if we want to make an impact in a 2025 world.

In this message, I broke down:

• Why digital culture is not a distraction but a discipleship opportunity
• How spiritual blindness can cost us real influence
• What it means to lead with both awareness and wisdom
• Why the Great Commission still applies to Instagram, YouTube, and group chats

🎥 Watch the full sermon on YouTube: Click here to watch​

If you care about the future of faith, this one is for you.

This message is more than encouragement. It is a challenge to wake up, pay attention, and step forward with clarity and conviction.

Also Worth Noting:

📝 Have you seen my Substack?

I write a weekly newsletter that blends leadership, faith, and personal growth in a way that’s honest and practical.

Substack is where I share deeper thoughts, ideas, and strategies for living with clarity in a noisy world.

My latest article, titled Everything You Know About Time Management Is a Lie, is already sparking real conversation.

➡️ Read it here​

🎬 Have you checked out YouTube Shorts?

Think quick, punchy videos that hit hard and teach fast. I’ve been posting short clips that cover everything from leadership truths to spiritual wake-up calls, all under 60 seconds.

➡️ Watch here​

Pressed for time? Try our 2-minute devotional.

It’s designed for busy professionals on the go. It’s part of our digital discipleship strategy:

👉 Start the Devotional​

Everything you need to grow spiritually right from your phone. We call it #ChurchInYourPocket.

⬇️ Download the Mars Hill App​

Moving Forward Together: Invest in Hope, Impact, and Community

In conclusion, I would like to discuss something close to all our hearts: our Moving Forward Together Campaign.

We’re at a pivotal moment in our church’s journey.

As someone who’s chosen to be part of our community, you know we’re more than just Sunday gatherings; we’re about creating lasting impact in people’s lives.

Your support does something remarkable. It helps us:

• Extend a helping hand to those who need it most
• Create meaningful worship experiences (both online and in-person)
• Invest in our kids and teens through vibrant ministry programs
• Build spaces where real connection happens

We’re not just building a church; we’re creating a home where people find hope, healing, and a sense of purpose.

And here’s the exciting part: while our regular tithes and offerings will go toward securing our own physical space, this special campaign will ensure that we can continue to grow our ministries both online and in-person.

How You Can Be Part of This Journey

We’re aiming to raise $20,000 by summer through our Moving Forward Together initiative. Specifically, we’re hoping for:

• 30 people to contribute $500
• 50 people to contribute $300

These funds will directly enhance our Sunday worship space, cover our weekly expenses, launch new youth and children’s programs, and create consistent mid-week gatherings that strengthen our community.

​Be Part of the Future – Give Today!

How to Support Mars Hill

Your generosity fuels everything we do, from in-person gatherings to digital discipleship. If you’ve been encouraged by this ministry, here are a few simple ways to give and get involved:

Give:

Support the mission securely at marshillchicago.org/giving, in our mobile app, or by texting MHGIVE to 33777. You can also mail checks to:

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

Serve:

Use your gifts to make a difference online or in person. Visit our site to see current serving opportunities.

Pray:

Lift up our leaders, our church family, and the people we’re reaching. Prayer is a powerful form of participation.

Invite & Share:

Send this email to a friend, invite someone to service, or repost something that encouraged you. Every share matters.

You’re helping us reach people with hope, truth, and love, whether they’re across town or across the country.

With love and expectation,

Pastor Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.

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