Happy Tuesday Reader!

Sunday’s message hit home for a lot of us.

We ran a quick poll during the livestream, and 88% of people said this one line felt most real:

Maybe that’s you, too.

You’re not doubting God. You’re just running on empty.

But here’s the good news: God sees that kind of faith. The quiet kind. The kind that shows up anyway.

I want to encourage you this week.

We’ve put together a few things to help:

✅ Sermon Replay

Missed it or need to hear it again? Watch here:

▶️ Watch the full message now on 👉 Watch on YouTube​

📖 5-Day Devotional

Start your mornings with short, powerful reminders that God is with you even when life is heavy.

👉 [Download the Devotional]

📍 Your Personal M.A.P.

Take a step this week toward healing and hope. Use the M.A.P. tool to reflect, apply, and act.

👉 [Access the M.A.P. Tool]

🛐 Need Prayer?

You don’t have to carry it alone. Let us pray for you this week.

👉 [Submit a Prayer Request]

Even when you’re tired…

Even when you feel dry…

Even when nothing changes, God is still working.

Let’s keep trusting. One step at a time.

🧭 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 (In-Person & Online)

When: Sunday, August 31, 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: Why Keeping Your Wins Quiet Protects Your Peace​

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.

👉 The ONE Mistake Smart People Keep Making​

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

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.

🔥 Your Move This Weekend

✔️ Watch the sermon

✔️ Download the devotional

✔️ Give to what God is doing at Mars Hill

✔️ Forward this to someone who feels like they don’t have enough

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 Friday Reader!

Let’s be honest. Some weeks take more out of you than others.

By Friday, most people are running low. Emotionally. Mentally. Spiritually.

The mask is back on. The good habits are slipping. The weight feels heavier again.

If that sounds familiar, I want you to know this:

You don’t need to fake strength to stay faithful. You just need a reset.

🧠 Scripture Rese

That doesn’t mean do nothing.

It means pause long enough to hear something deeper than your anxiety.

You don’t have to grind your way back to peace.

Sometimes the most spiritual move you can make is to stop and breathe.

When You Don’t Have Enough

Key Scripture: 2 Kings 4:1–7 (NLT)

Big Idea: God multiplies what you surrender, not what you withhold.

In this message, you’ll learn:

• Why scarcity is not just about money. It’s about mindset.
• How God multiplies what you give Him, even when it feels like not enough
• The one simple step you can take when it feels like you’ve run out

This is for anyone facing financial stress, burnout, or the quiet fear of not being enough.

Whether you’re spiritually curious, a high achiever craving clarity, or just tired from carrying too much—this will speak to your Monday reality.

▶️ Watch the full message now 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 31, 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: Why Keeping Your Wins Quiet Protects Your Peace​

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.

👉 The ONE Mistake Smart People Keep Making​

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

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.

🔥 Your Move This Weekend

✔️ Watch the sermon

✔️ Download the devotional

✔️ Give to what God is doing at Mars Hill

✔️ Forward this to someone who feels like they don’t have enough

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!

I hope that you are feeling God’s love, experiencing real peace, and sensing the strength of our community around you today.

As we move forward together, let’s keep encouraging one another, trusting in faith and hope, no matter where life takes us.

Sunday’s service was a clear reminder of the power that comes when we show up for each other. God’s presence was felt, faith was stirred, and your kindness made a real impact.

Teaching Highlight: Sermon Replay – “You’re Going to the Other Side”

Teaching Highlight: This Storm Can’t Stop You

If the enemy can’t sink you, he’ll try to scare you.

This week, I shared a powerful word from Mark 4, reminding us that storms don’t cancel God’s promises; they reveal His power.

What You’ll Learn

• Why Jesus sometimes lets the storm rise (Mark 4:35–37)
• The danger of bringing old crowds into new seasons (Mark 4:36)
• How fear blinds us to what faith already knows (Mark 4:38–40)
• Why Jesus doesn’t just calm storms? He questions our faith so it can grow (Mark 4:41)

📺 Watch the full message and find peace in your storm 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 24, 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: Why I Stopped Trying to Fix Broken People.

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 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! ⏰