Hey, Mars Hill Anywhere family,

I hope your week has been filled with God’s goodness!

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey that will transform your Sundays and your soul? Step into a realm where faith meets action, where stories of the past ignite our present path with purpose and passion!

🔍 Explore the Edges: The Outsiders Series Unveiled!

NEW SERIES ALERT beginning Sunday, March 3, 2024

Join Rev. Marcie Stowers-Wilson, Rev. Tim Morris, and me, Pastor Clarence E. Stowers Jr., as we team teach The Outsiders Series, delving into the Bible’s most compelling yet overlooked narratives.

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Together, we will explore the depths of characters who, though on the periphery, played pivotal roles in God’s plan. From Naaman’s humility to Ruth’s steadfastness, each story unfolds layers of wisdom and inspiration.

Whether you join us in person at 7941 47th St, McCook, IL, or online, we gather every Sunday at 10:30 AM Central to explore these transformative stories.

Let’s recap this past Sunday’s Message: Beyond the Noise: Overcoming Interruptions & Disruptions.

​Beyond The Noise: Overcoming Interruptions & Disruptions emphasizes the significance of perseverance and dedication in achieving one’s goals, using the story of Nehemiah as an inspirational example.

It highlights how common it is to begin tasks with great enthusiasm only to falter before they are completed, stressing the importance of finishing what we start.

By examining Nehemiah’s journey, the message offers insights into overcoming challenges, maintaining focus, and staying committed despite obstacles.

It also introduces the concept of a “Finish Strong Plan” to help individuals create a legacy of completion and achievement, urging the audience to be individuals who dream ambitively and persist until their goals are fully realized.

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Life Groups

Speaking of support, our Life Groups are going strong!

We’re currently 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.

Text LIFEGROUP to 33777 and connect today.

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 our mission.

​Copies are available on Amazon if you need one!

Live on Kindle | From Ashes to Grace Short Story

Get ready for those keeping up with my Kindle Vella story, “From Ashes to Grace”!

Episode 4 drops on Wednesday, February 27, 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 most challenging trials into incredible triumphs. This story will ignite your heart!

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Save The Date | March 10, 2024

Join us for our next in-person service on Sunday (March 10, 2024, at 10:30 AM Central) to explore how we can rise more vital than ever!

If you couldn’t 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 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.

​

African Foods You Probably Thought Were American

Enslaved Africans braided grains of rice into their hair. Okra seeds were tucked into pockets. Many foods we eat today that you may have thought were American are native to Africa and helped our people survive.

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The diaspora’s most cherished crops, like yam, plantain, sweet potato, watermelon, okra, black-eyed peas, and rice, are foods we carried across the Atlantic.

Alongside the enslaved, these indigenous food staples were cargo, too, and they helped sustain our people as their captors carried them into the unknown. Beyond sustenance, women quietly resisted by carrying rice seeds in their hair, unbeknownst to enslavers.

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Once in the Americas, we adapted. We also adapted the crops we’ve always known, finding alternative ways to grow them in unfamiliar soil. Rice growing thrived in the US South.

Plantain flourished in the tropical conditions of the Caribbean. Black-eyed peas found a home in Brazil. We carried these foods. But they also carried us, and today, we’re still benefiting from these nutrient-dense staples and the delicious ways we serve them, whether new or traditional.

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As our ancestors’ seeds did, we survived the journey, were planted elsewhere, and still found beautiful, new ways to bloom.

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 🙏

Look, as you guys know, making ministry happen ain’t cheap!

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.

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 Groups

Speaking 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.

Text LIFEGROUP to 33777 and connect today.

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 Story

Now, 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, 2024

Join 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 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.

​

These Black Country Artists Walked So Beyoncé Could Run

Beyoncé 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.

Beyonce

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.

DeFord Bailey

​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.

Lesley Riddle

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.

Charley Pride

​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.

Linda Martell

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 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.

​

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 🙏

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.

Reader Step into AI – No tech wizardry needed!

This insightful thought reminds us that the cost of not utilizing essential tools in our endeavors can be just as significant as the cost of acquiring them.

In today’s digital era, AI is one such tool, indispensable for anyone looking to excel in their field.

Grow Your Skills with AI and ChatGPT

Ready to get savvy with AI? “Unlocking AI Mastery: From Novice to ChatGPT Pro” is your fun, easy guide to learning cool AI tricks. No matter where you’re starting, you’ll step up your game and see how AI can be your smart helper for all kinds of tasks.

Cool Skills You’ll Learn:

• AI Basics: Get to know ChatGPT and make it your new best friend.
• Supercharge Your Blogs: Create awesome posts and videos with ChatGPT’s help.
• Dream Jobs Ahead: Make your job applications shine with smart AI tips.
• Emails That Get Replies: Learn to write emails that people can’t wait to answer.
• Boost Your Skills: Find out how ChatGPT can make you even better at what you do.

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Why Choose This Course?

• Play and Learn: Enjoy cool videos and articles that make learning a breeze.
• Keep and Use: Grab special downloads that help you remember the fun stuff.
• Learn On the Go: Pick up new skills whether you’re on the couch or on the bus.
• Show Off Your Smarts: Finish up and get a shiny certificate to brag about!

Start Your AI Story Today

With “ChatGPT Essentials for Beginners,” learning isn’t just sitting and listening—it’s doing and making! Join now and start playing with AI.

​Let’s Go! I’m In! – Sign Me Up​

In closing, I want to reiterate how much I believe Unlocking AI Mastery: From Novice to ChatGPT Pro can make a difference for you. It’s more than just another online course; it’s a new beginning, a step towards future-proofing your life.

If you have any questions or thoughts, or just want to chat more about this, my inbox is always open.

Let’s make 2024 one for the books!

​

Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​

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.

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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.

​

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.

​

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?

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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.

​

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.

​

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.

​

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.

Hello Reader,

I hope this message finds you thriving and growing every day! I’m reaching out with some exciting news about the latest episode of The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast – “Mastering Time Management & Avoiding Burnout.” 🚀

Here’s What You Missed: Our recent live session was nothing short of transformative. Joined by the insightful Pastor Anthony Spencer, Sr., we dived deep into the world of bi-vocational leadership, uncovering secrets to balancing life, ministry, and secular work. 🌟

The conversation was rich with real-life experiences, practical advice, and moments of profound wisdom. We discussed everything from the art of prioritizing and saying ‘no’ to recognizing and combatting burnout before it takes hold.

Wish You Were There? While experiencing it live was a treat, the good news is that you can still catch all the incredible insights! The episode is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you love to listen to your podcasts. 🎙️

Listen Now:

🍏 Apple Podcasts​

🟢 Spotify​

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

Why You Can’t Miss This Episode: Whether you’re leading a church, a community, or just your own personal journey, the lessons shared in this episode are invaluable. It’s not just about managing time; it’s about nurturing your calling and ensuring your well-being as you lead others.

So, grab your headphones, find a comfy spot, and dive into an episode that will leave you inspired, equipped, and ready to take on your leadership role with renewed vigor and balance.

We’re all on this journey together, and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on the episode. Feel free to hit reply and share your takeaways or how you’re applying these insights in your life!

Looking forward to growing together, 1% better every day.

​

Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​

P.S. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes coming your way! And don’t forget to share this podcast with friends who could use a little inspiration in their leadership journey.

Happy Monday Reader,

I’m thrilled to extend a special invitation to join me in an upcoming episode of the Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast that you won’t want to miss.

​

Join us Live on February 12th at 6 PM Central!

🔗 Click here to set a YouTube reminder.
🔗 Click here to get a Facebook notification.

In this live session, we’ll explore the essential skills of time management and strategies to avoid burnout, specially curated for dedicated ministry leaders like you. Together with my esteemed guest, Pastor Anthony Spencer, we’ll uncover the secrets that keep us thriving in our callings without falling prey to exhaustion.

Why Tune In? – Discover time management techniques that actually fit into your busy schedule. – Learn how to recognize the signs of burnout and the steps to take to prevent it. – Gain insights from Pastor Anthony Spencer’s rich experience in balancing both secular and spiritual callings.

Mark Your Calendar:
Date: February 12, 2024 Time: 6 PM Central
Where: Facebook & YouTube Live​

This episode is more than just a podcast; it’s a lifeline for those of us in the trenches of leadership. It’s about building resilience, fostering community, and elevating our service to higher heights.

Don’t keep this to yourself! Share this invitation with peers and friends who would benefit from this enriching conversation. Forward this email spread the word, and let’s grow together.

Your presence is what makes these live sessions a truly interactive and communal experience. So, will you join us? Simply click on the links above to confirm your spot, and let’s make this a remarkable gathering.

Looking forward to sharing this moment with you.

​

Here’s to your success,

Clarence E. Stowers, Jr.
​See All of my Links @ Linktree​

P.S. We love hearing from you! Hit reply to this email and tell us about your own challenges and victories in managing time and preventing burnout. Your story could be an inspiration to many!