God called the Ragers to the circle city to help make it new.
New Circle Church was born from a vision placed in the hearts of Barry and Amy Rager. In 2013, the Ragers moved from Western Kentucky to the Mapleton-Fall Creek area of Indianapolis. Their dream was to establish a diverse, welcoming church that embraced people of all ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, ages, and spiritual journeys.
Their dream was for New Circle Church to reflect the power of the gospel—breaking barriers, welcoming all, and bringing healing to brokenness, ultimately contributing to the renewal of Indianapolis, affectionately known as the ‘Circle City.’
Mapleton-Fall Creek was the ideal starting point. A historically African-American neighborhood experiencing an influx of young families dotted with abandoned homes in need of repair, it presented a diverse community and opportunities to serve and uplift neighbors in tangible ways.
The Ragers began engaging in gospel conversations with those they met, whether neighbors or strangers, at the local Starbucks. Partner churches sent mission teams to improve streets, homes, and parks in the area, while block parties provided a way to foster connection and hospitality.
Small groups began forming as interest grew, with people coming to faith or embracing the church’s vision. One of the most remarkable developments was a small group on the former IUPUI campus downtown, which expanded from three members to nearly 30 within a few months, creating a foundation to launch New Circle.
In the spring of 2014, New Circle Church held its first worship gatherings on Sunday nights at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Mapleton-Fall Creek. Recognizing the need for a Sunday morning service, relationships paved the way for a gathering space at The Oaks Academy, just a few blocks south. In September 2014, New Circle Church officially launched as a congregation.
Even in our early days, the people of New Circle Church used their God-given talents to establish mercy ministries, including a fitness program for low-income neighbors, a recovery ministry for women in addiction, outreach efforts to the homeless, a community garden, and a homework help club.
By the grace of God and the commitment of our Builders (members), New Circle Church continues to grow, spreading God’s love throughout Indianapolis. Today, the church is a vibrant part of the Mapleton-Fall Creek community, hosting Community Groups across the city. We are committed to sharing the love of Christ by serving our neighbors and partnering with various non-profits, making a tangible difference in the lives of those around us.
While much has changed since our inception, our mission remains steadfast. We are here to see Indianapolis transformed and renewed. We aim to unite, celebrate the city’s strengths, and work together to bring restoration and renewal. We want the people of Indianapolis to know that God loves them and that they are always welcome at New Circle Church.
Their dream was for New Circle Church to reflect the power of the gospel—breaking barriers, welcoming all, and bringing healing to brokenness, ultimately contributing to the renewal of Indianapolis, affectionately known as the ‘Circle City.’
Mapleton-Fall Creek was the ideal starting point. A historically African-American neighborhood experiencing an influx of young families dotted with abandoned homes in need of repair, it presented a diverse community and opportunities to serve and uplift neighbors in tangible ways.
The Ragers began engaging in gospel conversations with those they met, whether neighbors or strangers, at the local Starbucks. Partner churches sent mission teams to improve streets, homes, and parks in the area, while block parties provided a way to foster connection and hospitality.
Small groups began forming as interest grew, with people coming to faith or embracing the church’s vision. One of the most remarkable developments was a small group on the former IUPUI campus downtown, which expanded from three members to nearly 30 within a few months, creating a foundation to launch New Circle.
In the spring of 2014, New Circle Church held its first worship gatherings on Sunday nights at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Mapleton-Fall Creek. Recognizing the need for a Sunday morning service, relationships paved the way for a gathering space at The Oaks Academy, just a few blocks south. In September 2014, New Circle Church officially launched as a congregation.
Even in our early days, the people of New Circle Church used their God-given talents to establish mercy ministries, including a fitness program for low-income neighbors, a recovery ministry for women in addiction, outreach efforts to the homeless, a community garden, and a homework help club.
By the grace of God and the commitment of our Builders (members), New Circle Church continues to grow, spreading God’s love throughout Indianapolis. Today, the church is a vibrant part of the Mapleton-Fall Creek community, hosting Community Groups across the city. We are committed to sharing the love of Christ by serving our neighbors and partnering with various non-profits, making a tangible difference in the lives of those around us.
While much has changed since our inception, our mission remains steadfast. We are here to see Indianapolis transformed and renewed. We aim to unite, celebrate the city’s strengths, and work together to bring restoration and renewal. We want the people of Indianapolis to know that God loves them and that they are always welcome at New Circle Church.
We want New Circle Church to be a vital part of the story of Indianapolis,
and we want you to be a part of that story too!
