Our Story

Lighthouse Christian Ministries was originally founded as Bay Area Christian Services (BACS) in December of 1997 after years of praying and preparation, led primarily by Bayview residents Chuck Gussler and Karl Newmann, pastor of Bayshore Friends Church.  A local businessman, who preferred to remain anonymous, committed to matching all donations up to $10,000 to begin in the Resale Shop and Gift Emporium that would provide revenue to continue the mission of the ministry.  The original location for the ministry was at 1201 State Highway 146 in Kemah. 

The name of the resale store changed to the Bay Area Trading Post and funded several community services at BACS.  The services included limited financial assistance for utilities and gasoline, food from local food pantries, a clothing allowance for families, job interview techniques, access to job boards, contact information to local employers and resume reviews.  The ministry made resource packets available for additional services available through area churches and organizations.  The packets included information on local programs and events for seniors, families and youth, referrals to parenting workshops, financial management and pastoral counseling to promote strong families and self-reliance. 

Today, Lighthouse Christian Ministries operates its resale shop and ministry programs in the heart of Bacliff. Moving to our current location on Grand Avenue in 2004, LCM has expanded its programming, focusing on five core ministry areas which include: resale, short-term assistance, educational programs, health & dental ministries, and several outreach programs. At Lighthouse Christian Ministries, we work every day to fulfill our calling, to be a beacon of light for our neighbors by building relationships through service and shining Christ’s love and hope in our community.

If you are interested in volunteering contact crystal@lighthousecm.org

1997
LCM Founded

LCM is founded in Bacliff and began serving families in the upper Galveston Bay Area with an annual budget of $15,000

2004
LCM Property Purchase

LCM bought the property and building where the ministry operates today, right in the heart of Bacliff.

2006
LCM Scholarship

LCM Education Scholarship Program begins

2007
LCM Medical Ministries

LCM launches their Medical Ministry

2008
Hurricane Ike

Hurricane Ike devastated the communities of Bacliff and San Leon.

2009
LCM's New Facility

LCM moved into its current facility after a rebuild was necessary due to deconstruction from Hurricane Ike.  LCM's new building included a new medical clinic, a large room that would become home to new ministry programs, and an expanded food pantry.

2011
1st Annual Fundraiser

LCM holds its first annual fundraising event which over time became known as our Annual Gala.

2013
LCM Dental Ministry

LCM Launches the Dental Ministry Program as well as "Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World" - a program designed to help clients explore and plan for a permanent pathway out of poverty.

2014
LCM Kidz Dayz

LCM launches Kidz Dayz Summer Program, a free 4-week summer day camp held in July.

2017
LCM Celebrates 20 Years

Lighthouse Christian Ministries celebrates serving the underserved in our community for 20 years.  God is good!

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Deuteronomy 31:6