Our History

Pastor Byron E. Thompson is the Founder and Pastor of Lighthouse Church in Belleville, Illinois. A first-generation pastor, he is called to teach God’s people with power and demonstration, ministering to the whole person—spirit, mind, body, and soul—for the glory of God.

Early in his ministry, Pastor Thompson served at House of Prayer to All Nations Church under the leadership of the late Suffragan Bishop John H. Pettiford. During this formative season, he was grounded in holiness, sanctification, and a deep reverence for God’s Word—principles that continue to shape his ministry today. It was also during this time that he met his wife, Lady Eliaka Thompson. Together, they are blessed with two sons, Markee Byron and Elijah Eugene.

Following Bishop Pettiford’s passing, Pastor Thompson was led to mentorship under Bishop Terence E. Coleman, DD, and Prophetess Sheila Coleman. Under their leadership and spiritual covering, Pastor and Lady Thompson were deeply rooted in the disciplines of prayer and fasting, learning to seek God in all things. After much prayer, fasting, and prophetic impartation, Pastor Thompson accepted his calling to the pastorate.

Pastor Thompson acknowledges the many spiritual fathers and mothers who have shaped his life and ministry, including his parents Deacon Joe and Evangelist Diana Thompson, along with bishops, elders, mothers, and evangelists who have poured into him along the way. He humbly believes he is who he is by the grace of God.

Lighthouse Church was born from a God-given vision to unite people from every walk of life into one body of believers. The mission is to reach the broken, the weary, and the discouraged—offering healing, life, and hope. Lighthouse Church stands as a Beacon of Hope and a Guiding Light within the community.

First Lady Eliaka Thompson serves faithfully alongside her husband as a prayerful, compassionate leader. Gifted in ministering to the hurting and broken, she is also a certified counselor and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. Pastor Byron Thompson and First Lady Eliaka Thompson were installed as Pastor and First Lady of Lighthouse Church in April 2015.