About Us

The Indiana State Conference (ISC) stands as a vibrant district within the Pentecostal Churches of the Apostolic Faith International, representing a legacy of apostolic ministry and community impact across Indiana. Originally established as the Indiana Diocese Fellowship in 2003, we made our historic debut on March 12, 2004, at Mount Bethel Apostolic Church in Indianapolis, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Indiana’s apostolic history.

Emerging from our roots in the Tri-State Council, the Indiana churches of PCAFI were called to form a distinct fellowship under the 7th Episcopal District, creating a more focused and dynamic platform for ministry within our state. The conference has grown into a powerful force for apostolic ministry and community transformation under the spiritual leadership of Bishop Lambert W. Gates, Sr., who serves as our diocesan.

Our conference rhythm includes three annual sessions, with the summer session designated as our Holy Convocation and our fall session as a leadership retreat. Our Holy Convocation is a significant gathering hosted at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries (formerly Mt. Zion Apostolic Church) in Indianapolis, which serves as a cornerstone event for spiritual renewal and corporate worship. 2013 marked two significant milestones in our development: our first election of officers and the launch of our inaugural website, demonstrating our commitment to structured leadership and enhanced communication.

The Indiana State Conference is built upon four foundational pillars that guide our tri-annual meetings and ongoing ministry:

  • Unity: Fostering strong bonds between churches and ministers
  • Leadership Development: Equipping leaders for effective ministry
  • Church Growth: Supporting the expansion and strengthening of local churches
  • Fellowship: Creating meaningful connections within our apostolic community

Today, we continue to build upon this foundation, embracing our mission of building community in the excellency of the kingdom. With over a dozen churches statewide and 100+ active ministers, we continue to represent a dynamic community of believers united in apostolic doctrine and holiness. Through strategic ministry initiatives, leadership development programs, and conuntless community outreach efforts, the Indiana State Conference remains committed to advancing God’s kingdom throughout our state and beyond.

Our Executive Leadership

Bishop Lambert W. Gates, Sr.

Bishop Lambert W. Gates, Sr.

Presiding Bishop & Diocesan

Suffragan Bishop J. Glenn Purnell

Suffragan Bishop J. Glenn Purnell

Conference Chairman

District Elder Michael Jones

District Elder Michael Jones

Conference Vice Chairman

Sister Paulette Turner

Sister Paulette Turner

Conference Secretary

Elder Christopher Townsend

Elder Christopher Townsend

Conference Assistant Secretary

Deacon Roderick Watts

Deacon Roderick Watts

Conference Treasurer

About PCAFI

Pentecostal Churches of the Apostolic Faith International


Founded on November 20, 1957, by Bishop Samuel N. Hancock in Detroit, MI, PCAFI stands as a testament to the apostolic faith and holiness doctrine. Today, our organization reaches over 800 member churches and impacts more than 20,000 individuals across 19 countries on six continents.
Under the leadership of Bishop Lambert W. Gates, Sr., PCAFI continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining its commitment to: • Upholding apostolic doctrine • Promoting holiness • Strengthening churches • Developing leaders • Building communities

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