Healing Hearts: Embracing Sacrifice for Personal Growth

About the Book

Discover the transformative power of sacrifice and faith in “Healing Hearts: Embracing Sacrifice for Personal Growth.” In these pages, you will embark on a journey that turns life’s deepest challenges into stepping stones toward healing and renewal. Drawing on personal experience and timeless biblical wisdom, this book reveals how letting go of what no longer serves you—be it old habits, toxic relationships, or the weight of past hurts—can create space for profound growth and spiritual awakening.

Through relatable stories, practical exercises, and inspirational reflections rooted in the King James Version of Scripture, you will learn to nurture your inner self and embrace change with courage. Each chapter guides you step-by-step, offering tools to rebuild resilience, establish healthy routines, and integrate faith seamlessly into everyday life. Whether you’re seeking to mend a broken heart or striving to find balance in a chaotic world, this book provides the encouragement and insights needed to transform pain into power and despair into hope.

Let “Healing Hearts” be your companion as you journey toward a life of authenticity, strength, and divine purpose. Embrace the sacrifices that pave the way for growth, and discover how every challenge can lead to a brighter, more fulfilling tomorrow.

About the Author

Dr. Mark A. McConnell was born on February 7, 1963, and raised in Kansas City, Kansas, by devoted Christian parents. From a young age, his faith was central to his life, accepting Christ at the tender age of five. Dr. McConnell’s foundational spiritual upbringing was nurtured at Mt. Zion Baptist Church under the guidance of Dr. C.L. Bachus. He pursued higher education with a commitment to his calling, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Religion and Philosophy from Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, in 1986. He continued his theological education, receiving a Master of Divinity from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1989 and completing a Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) in May 2002. Dr. McConnell has been blessed with a beautiful family. He married Paris McConnell, his steadfast partner and source of strength, on September 2, 1989. Together, they have three sons—Moses, Caleb, and Matthew—and are proud grandparents to Jayden and Jordan McConnell. Answering the call to preach, Dr. McConnell delivered his first sermon in May 1984 and was ordained in August 1985. His pastoral journey has included leading three congregations: Southside First Baptist Church in Kansas City, Missouri; Prince of Peace Baptist Church in Peoria, Illinois; and currently, New Cornerstone Baptist Church in Peoria, Illinois. His service extends beyond the pulpit, having served two terms as Moderator of the Central Illinois Baptist District Association in Peoria, Illinois. His involvement with the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois spans over 31 years, during which he has held significant positions, including 2nd Vice President of both the Baptist General Congress of Christian Education and the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois. Dr. McConnell’s dedication and unwavering commitment have led to his current role as President of the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois. His passion for this esteemed body is evident in his consistent participation, having never missed a board meeting, annual session, or Congress of Christian Education. He firmly believes that God has positioned him to lead and serve, fostering unity and growth within the convention. Dr. McConnell’s vision is clear: to uphold and advance the legacy of the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois, continuing its history as a leading force among state conventions. Through dedication and collective effort, he is confident that this convention will remain a beacon of leadership, faith, and service.