For more than a century, Lakeview Church has been a place where people from every background can encounter Jesus, experience the power of the Holy Spirit, and find a community that feels like home.
Founded in 1918 on the west side of Indianapolis, Lakeview’s story has always been marked by faith that crossed boundaries. The church was led by pioneering evangelist Maria Woodworth-Etter, whose ministry drew people from all walks of life during a time of deep division in America. Long before women had the right to vote, Maria traveled the country preaching the Gospel with boldness and conviction. She became known for powerful revival meetings, miraculous healings, and a passion to reach those often overlooked by society, including people from many different cultures and backgrounds.
That spirit of reaching beyond cultural lines became part of Lakeview’s DNA. Through every generation, the church continued growing as a place where people could worship together across racial, cultural, and generational differences.
In later years, Pastor Tom and Lois Paino were instrumental in strengthening and shepherding the church through seasons of growth and transition, building a foundation of prayer, deep faith, and commitment to the global community. His leadership helped preserve the heart of Lakeview while preparing the church for future generations.
In 1994, Ron and Dorene Bontrager became Lead Pastor and led Lakeview into a new season of growth and outreach. Under their leadership, the church embraced a clear vision of becoming a thriving multicultural and multigenerational church that reflected the diversity of heaven. Lakeview continued expanding into a church family representing dozens of nationalities and backgrounds.
Today, under the leadership of Drew and Courtney Bontrager, Lakeview continues that legacy of helping people know Jesus, live free, discover purpose, and make an impact. From passionate worship and practical teaching to local outreach and global missions through Heaven to Earth, the heart of Lakeview remains the same: creating a place where anyone can experience the life-changing presence of God.
Whether you’ve been in church your whole life or are exploring faith for the first time, there’s a place for you at Lakeview.
