Meet the Pastor
Meet Our Pastor, Phil Bontrager
Serving LightHouse Fellowship Church since 2016
Our Pastor, Phil Bontrager, has been serving LightHouse Fellowship Church since 2016, faithfully teaching God’s Word and caring for the church family in Grand Marais.
Phil has had a life journey that spans many places, experiences, and seasons — all of which have shaped his perspective, faith, and heart for ministry.
He spent part of his early years in Grand Marais, attending school and becoming familiar with the community he now serves. Over time, his path led him across the country, including time in Colorado, Louisiana, Indiana, Idaho, and Michigan.
After graduating from the University of Colorado–Boulder, Phil pursued a degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and began a career dedicated to helping individuals overcome barriers to employment and daily life.
A Journey Along the Way
Phil and his wife Carolyn were married in Louisiana and soon after took an unconventional step — leaving their jobs to travel through Europe. Along the way, they purchased a used Volkswagen camping van and spent time exploring before eventually returning to the United States to continue building their life together.
In the years that followed, they lived in several communities, including Twin Falls, Idaho, where they spent ten years and welcomed their two children. Later, they returned to southwest Michigan to be closer to extended family.
Throughout these years, Phil remained active in church life and leadership, growing in his faith and sense of calling.
Called to Serve
Committed to Scripture, steady teaching, and genuine care for the congregation.
While serving in various church leadership roles, Phil was encouraged by a pastor to pursue seminary training in preparation for deeper ministry. He followed that path and began serving in pastoral roles, including a two-year assignment as a transitional pastor.
In 2016, when the pastor of the Grand Marais Mennonite Church retired, Phil was invited to return and serve as pastor. Since then, he has faithfully led LightHouse Fellowship Church with a commitment to Scripture, steady teaching, and genuine care for the congregation.
Rooted in the Community
In addition to his pastoral work, Phil is actively involved in the Grand Marais community. He has served with the local ambulance corps as a driver and participates in the Burt Township Planning Commission.
His involvement reflects a desire not only to serve within the church, but to support and care for the broader community as well.
A Life Shaped by Experience and Faith
Phil’s ministry is marked by a steady commitment to God’s Word, a heart for people, and a desire to see lives shaped by the truth of Scripture. He values meaningful relationships and a church environment where individuals are known, supported, and encouraged in their walk with Christ.
Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.
Hebrews 13:7
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