Writer / Janet Streibel
Cornerstone Lutheran Church (formerly Carmel Lutheran Church) announces its new name as it continues to grow with two new locations including downtown Indianapolis and Fishers. Although Cornerstone Lutheran Church (CLC) has a new name, encompassing three settings, it shares one common congregation.
“We remain true to our mission as we reach out, care for and build people toward maturity in Christ as one congregation in several communities,” says Luther Brunette, senior pastor.
One unique feature of CLC is the luxury of having a real live pastor at each service for each location as opposed to a video on stage as seen with many growing churches.
The Carmel site was established in 1976 and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Located at 4850 E. Main St., Carmel represents the original hub. The downtown Indy location has been around for a year and holds Sunday evening services at 5 p.m. in the Hinge Building (719 Virginia Ave.)
“God has blessed us with a new Fishers site built on 18 acres,” says Pastor Luther as he approaches his 24th year at the Carmel location. “This gives us influence to expand the Gospel in a new community. Our leadership has carefully planned to replicate much of the same culture and experiences at the Carmel site to each future location of our church.”
Cornerstone Lutheran’s reputation for engaging families in worship should come as no surprise since Pastor Luther is committed to family and faith. He and his wife of 39 years have three children and two grandchildren. Further, Luther, the oldest of seven sons, knew he wanted to be a pastor when he was just 2 years old. His father was a Lutheran pastor as well.
The new CLC Fishers site is located at 13450 E. 116th St. (behind Kroger Plaza off Olio Rd.) and is scheduled to open November 20 with a traditional service (organ-led worship) at 9 a.m., followed by education time for all ages at 10:15 a.m. and a contemporary worship service (with praise band) at 11 a.m.
“We believe in family worship, and our services encourage children to come sit in the front by the altar, so that the liturgical theme can be explained on their level,” says Pastor Luther.
The Fishers location will provide the following highlights:
• a large area with plenty of parking
• a social gathering area for coffee and donuts
• a significant indoor playground offering a safe clean environment
• a special Christmas drive-thru nativity scene in December
If you’re thinking of worshipping at the new Fishers CLC, then come to the Carmel site this month for Saturday evening worship, dinner and education time (beginning at 4:45 p.m.) where you’ll have the opportunity to meet others who will also transition in November.
Pastor Luther says, “I’ve experienced lots of change and growth, and it’s been a real blessing. I welcome you to visit any of the three locations of CLC that fit your schedule and are convenient for your family’s lifestyle.”
Visit cornerstonelutheran.church for more information or call 317-814-4252.
