Business Details
Welcome to Pleasant View Lutheran Church
Pleasant View Lutheran Church has served the Indianapolis community since 1844 as an inclusive, intergenerational congregation rooted in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Guided by the Holy Spirit, we adapt to changing times while maintaining our commitment to living in Christ and sharing Gods love. Our community gathers through worship, education, and service, embracing both tradition and innovation. We prioritize connection with neighbors locally and globally, advocating for justice and supporting hands-on service initiatives.Our worship services blend traditional elements with contemporary language and creative liturgies, welcoming all ages and backgrounds. We celebrate weekly Holy Communion as a central act of faith, emphasizing Gods unconditional love for all people regardless of race, gender, orientation, or circumstance. Through Bible study, community events, and partnerships with organizations like Lutheran World Relief, we strive to honor the image of God in everyone we encounter.
Services
Worship Services
Sunday School
Book Group
Community Service
Pastoral Care
Highlights and features
- We offer inclusive worship welcoming all ages, backgrounds, and identities.
- Our community prioritizes hands-on service and advocacy for social justice.
- Weekly Holy Communion celebrates God's presence for every participant.
- Intergenerational Sunday School fosters learning for all age groups.
- Flexible gathering spaces adapt to our evolving community needs.
Services
Worship Services
Our Sunday morning worship at 10:00 AM combines traditional liturgy with contemporary language and creative elements. Each service includes prayer, scripture, music, preaching, and weekly Holy Communion in an intergenerational setting. Children participate freely with access to prayground materials, emphasizing our welcoming environment for all ages and abilities.
Sunday School
Post-worship Sunday School classes run September-May for all ages, featuring age-divided sessions and community projects. Activities focus on biblical exploration, spiritual growth, and practical application of faith through art and service initiatives that engage participants across generations.
Book Group
Weekly Zoom book discussions led by Pastor Sarah occur Wednesdays at 7:00 PM. Participants read assigned chapters and engage in thoughtful dialogue about texts, alternating with podcast discussions during November. This virtual format allows both local and remote participation in faith-based learning.
Community Service
We organize monthly service opportunities including meal preparation at Wheeler Mission, food distribution at Gleaners, and kit-building for Lutheran World Relief. Seasonal projects involve Christmas sponsorships, refugee support, and participation in statewide advocacy initiatives through the Bread for the World offering.
Pastoral Care
Co-pastors Bob and Sarah Nowak provide comprehensive pastoral care including home visits, counseling, and spiritual guidance. Available via phone/text at 317-253-0872 or email, they offer personalized support for life events, crises, and ongoing spiritual development within our ELCA-affiliated framework.
People
The Rev. Bob Nowak
Co-Pastor
Co-pastor since 2015, Rev. Bob Nowak shares worship leadership, pastoral care, and administrative duties. He graduated from Trinity Lutheran Seminary and serves alongside Rev. Sarah Nowak.
The Rev. Sarah Nowak
Co-Pastor
Co-pastor since 2015, Rev. Sarah Nowak leads worship, education, and community outreach initiatives. She graduated from Trinity Lutheran Seminary and collaborates with Rev. Bob Nowak in all pastoral duties.
Questions
What are your worship service times?
Our primary worship service occurs Sunday mornings at 10:00 AM in-person at 801 W. 73rd Street and via Zoom. Special services occur throughout the year including midweek Advent/Lenten gatherings.
Is childcare available during services?
We maintain an intergenerational worship space where children participate freely. A prayground area with activity materials is available on the sanctuary's left side for children's use during services.
Do you offer religious education for children?
Yes, we provide Sunday School classes September-May after worship for all ages, featuring age-appropriate instruction and community service projects that engage children in practical faith applications.
How can I participate in community service?
Monthly service opportunities include meal preparation at Wheeler Mission, food distribution at Gleaners, and kit-building for Lutheran World Relief. Check our calendar for specific dates and sign-up options.
Are visitors welcome at your services?
All are welcome at Pleasant View Lutheran Church regardless of background, beliefs, or life circumstances. Our inclusive community warmly welcomes first-time visitors and regular attendees alike.
How do you celebrate Holy Communion?
We celebrate weekly Holy Communion every Sunday using traditional liturgy with contemporary language. All participants receive Christ's presence through bread and wine in a welcoming, non-exclusive manner.
