About Us

A Loving, Inspiring & Hospitable Church in Akron

Loving, Inspiring and Hospitable

The House of the Lord is a Jesus-centered church family in Akron, Ohio. Our heart is to glorify God through the Holy Spirit by winning the lost, welcoming people into our church family, making disciples of Jesus, and equipping believers to serve in Akron, Northeast Ohio, and around the world.

Our Purpose

Teaching: We teach and share the message of Jesus.

At the core of our church is the commitment to teaching—a powerful and transformative act that strengthens faith and builds community. Just as the early church in Acts 2:42 dedicated themselves to teaching, we believe that sharing knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures is vital for spiritual growth and development. Teaching is not just about sharing information; it’s about transformation. It shapes our view of God and influences our actions and perspectives on others. As we explore the teachings of Jesus, we build a community where love, inspiration, and hospitality thrive.

1. The Importance of Teaching: Teaching is essential to our faith. It empowers people to face life’s challenges with wisdom and discernment. Teachers help believers understand their identity in Christ and live out their faith in community. The transformative power of teaching builds hope, encourages change, and motivates action.

2. Living in Community: In our faith journey, we understand the importance of community. Teaching the Word of God is rooted in our relationships with one another. It is within this community that we confront real issues, embrace the gospel together, and remind each other of our shared identity as children of God. Without teaching, we risk losing sight of our purpose and the power of the gospel in our lives.

3. A Teaching Church: At our church, we embrace our calling to be a teaching community. We aim to equip our members with the knowledge and tools needed to live lives that reflect Christ’s love and grace. Through our teachings, we seek to inspire, uplift, and challenge each other to grow spiritually and serve our community effectively.

Partnering: We connect with our community to create a positive impact.

At our church, we believe that true partnership is essential for fostering connection and creating meaningful change within our community. Just as the early church exemplified in Acts 2:41-42, we are called to engage with one another and our neighbors, building relationships that reflect Christ’s love and grace.

1. Building Meaningful Connections: In a world that often feels disconnected, our commitment to partnership highlights the importance of relationships. We understand that a vibrant community is built on our ability to live together, celebrate our diversity, and seek unity despite our differences. As Jesus taught, we are defined by our love for one another, and this love forms the foundation of our partnerships both within the church and beyond.

2. A Call to Action: Our church is more than just a place to gather; it’s a launching pad for action. We realize that as we come together in fellowship, we activate our collective ability to serve others. Just like the early disciples who were sent out in pairs to minister, we are called to collaborate, using our unique gifts and talents to meet our community’s needs. When we work together, we increase our impact, bringing hope and healing to those around us.

3. Creating Safe Spaces: We aim to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and accepted. Our partnerships include various community initiatives that address both perceived and actual needs, promoting inclusivity. Whether through outreach programs, educational efforts, or support services, we strive to break down barriers and connect with our neighbors.

4. Empowering Change: As a partnering church, we are committed to uplifting individuals and families within our community. By working with local organizations, we open doors for growth, learning, and transformation.

5. Living Out Our Faith Together: Partnership isn’t just about actions; it’s about shared experiences and mutual support. We believe that the church should be a place of fellowship and communion, where we actively engage in each other’s lives. This is how we embody the message of Christ—by walking alongside one another, sharing our joys and struggles, and lifting each other in love.

Holistic: We create a caring and safe place for all people to grow.

At our church, we believe everyone deserves a nurturing environment where they can thrive—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Our commitment to holistic ministry shows our understanding that real growth happens when we care for the whole person, building relationships based on love, acceptance, and support.

1. A Safe and Caring Environment: We aim to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and respected. Just as the early church in Acts 2:42 committed themselves to prayer, teaching, and fellowship, we recognize the importance of building a community that cares for one another. Our church is a refuge where people can come as they are, experience God’s love, and begin their journey of growth.

2. The Power of Prayer: Prayer is a fundamental practice that supports our holistic approach. It is through prayer that we invite God’s presence into our lives and community. As we pray together, we open ourselves to God’s transformative power, allowing Him to work in and through us. Prayer is not just about asking for help; it is a way to connect deeply with God and one another, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

3. Meeting Needs Holistically: We understand that genuine ministry involves more than just spiritual teachings; it includes physical, emotional, and social well-being. Inspired by the story of Peter and the lame man at the Gate Called Beautiful (Acts 3), we aim to meet the full needs of individuals, offering support that goes beyond immediate help. We believe in empowering others through relationships that foster healing, growth, and sustainability.

4. Empowerment for Growth: We are committed to providing individuals with the tools and resources they need to succeed in every area of life. Our comprehensive approach includes educational programs, support groups, and community outreach efforts designed to uplift and empower. We believe that by addressing the various needs of our community, we can help individuals discover their purpose and potential in Christ.

Our Motto

Loving, Inspiring & Hospitable

What do we mean when we say Loving, Inspiring, and Hospitable? These values define how we live out our faith and build meaningful relationships. Because relationships matter, we are committed to being a church that reflects Christ’s love in the way we connect, grow, and welcome others.

Loving: Love is the defining characteristic of our relationships with one another. It compels us to care deeply, serve faithfully, and minister to each other’s needs with grace and compassion.
Inspiring: Our relationship with God The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is the source of our strength and purpose. We desire a genuine and growing walk with Him that inspires us to serve, lead, and walk alongside others who seek the same life-changing relationship with Christ.
Hospitable: Hospitality means making room for others. At The House of the Lord, there is a place for you. We intentionally create space where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and at home.

OUR VISION

Vision

The vision of The House of the Lord is to glorify God by becoming a loving, inspiring, and hospitable church where all who experience us can find healing, hope, and transformation through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are committed to helping people grow in authentic relationships with God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and one another through dynamic worship, relevant teaching, meaningful community, and compassionate ministry.

Mission

We achieve this vision through our dedication to teaching, partnering, and holistic ministry.

Meet Our Pastors

Bishop F. Josephus “Joey” Johnson II

Founder & Preaching Pastor

Bishop Joey Johnson has pastored The House of the Lord from its establishment over 50 years ago. He has had several seasons of leadership, but in this current season, he has moved from being a hero of organizations to a host of conversations.

This has led Bishop Joey to a growing list of community conversations, initiatives, and endeavors for the purpose of speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves and facilitating justice for those who are being crushed.

Pastor Daren Brake

Lead Pastor

Daren Brake is the Lead Pastor at The House of the Lord in Akron, Ohio, under the leadership of Founder and Preaching Pastor Bishop Joey Johnson. He is the pastor of Local Missions, Christian Education, Comfort Care, Prison/Reentry, and the Minister and Deacons ministries. As Lead Pastor, Daren is also responsible for preaching and teaching God’s word when needed. He also serves on the board of various local organizations, is Vice President of the Beth-El Fellowship of Visionary Churches, is a board member for CORE, and is a board member for Love Akron.

Daren graduated from Malone University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management. He is an avid reader, consuming around 20 books annually on Biblical Theology, Biblical Studies, and related topics. Daren loves God’s people and God’s word, and loves to preach that word. Daren’s wife of 13 years, Alaina, is also actively involved at The House of the Lord, and he has three sons, Donovan, Brayden, and Brandon.

A Team Serving the People of God

Pastors, deacons, staff, and volunteers work together to serve our church family and city. From worship and teaching to administration, care, and creative arts, every role matters.