🎯 Tired of Self-Help? Discover Why New Can’t Fix You + Join Us Sunday!

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.

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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! ⏰