A Message of Thanks from the Pastor’s Desk

“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Praise be to the God and Father who has blessed us in the

heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”

Ephesians 1: 2-3

Great is the Lord and He is worthy to be praised!  I would like to take a moment and praise God for His Grace and Mercy.  For I realize in the hands of the Father, sinners become saints, failures become victories, and the common is made holy.  As a gifted potter fashions shapeless clay into a work of art, God can sculpt us into more that we ever imagined when we yield our lives to His gentle touch.

First, I would like to thank my loving and supporting wife, Shauntai for her support, patience, and understanding.  I realize that ministry is not easy and it takes a woman of resilience and excellence to share her husband with so many.  You are truly a “rare gem” and I cherish that.  To my sons Myles and Joshua, God allowed your grandfather to build a great church and leave a great legacy to build upon.  It is my desire to broaden that legacy so you can dream bigger dreams and build a greater legacy for my grandchildren. 

Next, I want to thank my family.  You have loved, supported, tolerated, and been there for me when I needed you.  Mom, you are the dearest person in the world.  I thank you for your prayers, words of wisdom, and your advice.  I appreciated how you tell me when I’m wrong and offer words of encouragement and scriptures to lift my spirits. 

Finally, I want to thank the Mars Hill Baptist Church of Chicago whom I love dearly.  We are on our way to becoming fully devoted followers of Christ.  You are a great people and I want to thank you for modeling unity during a difficult transition period.  I believe God is using you to show the world two things:  1) How to transition a church from pastor-to-pastor and 2) How to treat widows.  Your faithfulness will not go unrewarded.  As I stated during my installation, I look forward to spending the rest of my ministry years in this “ONE” location.  Let’s continue to build on the great legacy of Dr. Clarence E. Stowers, Sr.

In closing, I want to thank Sis. Mary Taylor and the Pastor’s Appreciation Committee and our guest pastors, ministers, and churches.  I love you all dearly!  You have done a GREAT job.  I want to thank you for all the hard work you put into this program and for your support, words of encouragement, prayers, and kindness you have shown during this difficult transition period.  I love you and pray that God will prosper you in every endeavor. 

The Reverend Clarence E. Stowers

Pastor/Teacher