Living Word Church began with a call from the battlefield. While serving in Vietnam, Pastor Mark T. Barclay received a life-changing call from God. After returning to California and attending Bible college, he was led to start a church—not in California, but back in his home state of Michigan, about an hour from where he grew up. In 1981, Living Word Church was founded in Midland.

The church quickly grew, and eventually the building we meet in today was built. What started as a step of obedience has become a strong, faith-filled church committed to teaching God’s Word, raising up believers, and reaching the world with the Gospel.

Today, Living Word Church is a thriving, Spirit-filled community with one clear focus—Jesus Christ. We’re a family of believers who have found real hope in Him, and our heart is to help as many people as possible experience that same freedom and transformation.

We’re a “Book of Acts” church, where the Word is taught boldly, the Spirit of God moves freely, and people are regularly sent out into ministry—both locally and globally. Many missionaries, ministers, and leaders have been raised up here and continue to come and go from this house.

Our services are marked by powerful worship, practical and uncompromised Bible teaching, and a strong sense of God’s presence. We also provide vibrant ministry for children and youth, from newborn through high school.

We are a non-denominational, Spirit-filled, Word of Faith church—rooted in truth, alive in the Spirit, and passionate about people.