In this episode of Conversations, Trent Lambert chats with Michael Cramer (Lead Pastor of New Life Church) about Michael's journey to the pulpit at New Life church, what he learned as a Pastor during the pandemic, and what he believes the church's role in culture is.

Dr. Michael Cramer is the Lead Pastor of New Life Church in Osceola, Indiana where he has served in various roles for 20 years. In addition, Michael is also a character coach for local youth sports teams and a loving husband and father to his wife and three children.

In February of 1985, Founding Pastor Dr. Mike Cramer preached for the first time at New Life church, which had only 23 people in attendance. However, Pastor Mike had a vision to effectively reach out with the gospel, and a burning passion to preach the Word of God. His confident belief that “with God all things are possible” helped the people gain a positive perspective. Pastor Mike challenged the congregation to embrace a fresh vision for reaching people. He helped them look through the “eye of faith” and see things not simply as they are, but how they could be through the power of God.

On the first Sunday in June 1985, that handful of people asked Pastor Mike to serve as their pastor as a strategic ministry vision was cast for the future. The strategy included building on the solid foundation of: Biblical preaching with life applications, dynamic worship, a family friendly emphasis with vital youth and children’s ministries, a focus on positive Christianity, and special events to “build a bridge” to the community. In just a few short years, the church out grew its landlocked facility in Mishawaka. Consequently, eight acres were purchased and the church campus was relocated to McKinley Highway East (U.S. 20) in Osceola.

This podcast is sponsored by The Charis Collective Center for Thriving Leaders based in Winona Lake, Indiana at Grace Theological Seminary.

The Center for Thriving Leaders assists local churches to flourish by serving church planters and helping local churches renew and revitalize. The Charis Collective Center for Thriving Leaders is based in Winona Lake, Indiana at Grace Theological Seminary.