As we launch eleven new independent churches and prepare for our final days as Mars Hill Church, we want to look back and thank Jesus for all the work he has done in the lives of the people that have called this church their home.
Below are a few stories that our Lead Pastors have shared recently at our local churches. These are stories of redemption, grace, and love. This is what we've always always been about, and what we will remember as we look back on the ministry of Mars Hill Church. Most importantly, we are thankful that Jesus will continue to change lives through the ministry of these new churches and through the lives of these people no matter what church family they are a part of.
Join us in celebrating the work of Jesus through Mars Hill. Share your story online using the hashtag #ChangedLives.
Mars Hill Sammamish: After a recent service two teenaged Muslim girls came up for prayer. One had been a Christian for a number of years and the other had recently placed her trust in Jesus. The newer Christian girl said that she hadn’t told her mom yet and was afraid to tell her because of the repercussions it might have on her family life at home. She said that as she listened to the sermon she was feeling convicted that she didn’t tell her mom that she was going to church. A pastor met with her and talked about what the Holy Spirit was telling her and she made up her mind that no matter what the consequence she wanted to be faithful to Jesus and be pleasing to God in this matter. The two girls agreed to pray for each other as she approached her mom with the good news of her faith in Jesus.
Mars Hill Olympia: We've had a handful of couples deal with the hard realities of adultery in their marriages recently, but it's been very encouraging to see the community groups rally around these couples through prayer and service. The Spirit has been giving grace, mercy, and reconciliation. It's been encouraging to see our church grow together and love one another well.
Mars Hill U-District: Jim, a homeless man who lives in the U-District ran up to one of our pastors as he was headed into the church for the 8:00am service. Jim asked, "Can I come in? Is it time for church?" The pastor claimed it was the first time Jim had ever asked for anything other than money. They welcomed him in and worshipped together during one of the final services at Mars Hill U-District.
Mars Hill Portland: Our recent coat drive was a great success and community groups did a great job of spreading the word outside of their groups into neighborhoods and workplaces. Numerous people not connected to our church came in just to drop off coats for donation. Some walked right back out the door but some stayed for awhile and met people. Praise God for giving us the opportunity to connect with more people through service and mercy.
