MEET THE PASTOR

Bishop Dr. Lonnie D. Harrison Jr. is the Founding Pastor of Refuge Church Chicago, established on September 11, 2014, alongside his wife, First Lady Heloise C. Harrison. What began with six members in Posen, Illinois, has grown into a thriving ministry in Chicago, serving the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of God’s people.

Bishop Harrison answered the call to ministry in 1997 and was ordained an Elder in 1999 under the Church of God in Christ (Northern Illinois Jurisdiction). With a deep musical gift, he served faithfully as District Minister of Music and later as State Minister of Music for the Home and Foreign Mission Department. His ministry in music opened doors to share the stage with gospel greats such as Kim Burrell, John P. Kee, Tamela Mann, Kirk Franklin, and many others. He also founded the group Lighthouse, which traveled internationally and appeared on platforms including Bobby Jones Gospel, The Word Network, and Singsation.

Beyond the music, Bishop Harrison has always had a heart for the community. Under his leadership, Refuge Church has housed over 14 families, fed more than 10,000 people, and continues to serve through Refuge Recovery, where he has ministered as a spiritual counselor since 2018. He founded the Southside Ministers Alliance, received the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Far South Community Action Council, and created and produced the weekly TV series "The Refuge" on WJYS, as well as hosted "The Takeover" on Rejoice 102.3 FM.

In addition to his pastoral duties, Bishop Harrison is an entrepreneur and has owned and managed businesses for over 30 years, providing job opportunities and training for many. His leadership extends beyond the church, he was consecrated as a Bishop in Glory Carriers Nation under Bishop Ronzel Pretlow in March 2023, and March of 2024, he was appointed Director of Building and Planning for the City of Harvey, IL, where he continues to serve the community with vision and excellence.

Bishop Dr. Lonnie D. Harrison Jr. is more than a pastor, he's a builder, visionary, counselor, and servant leader with a passion for God’s people. Refuge Church Chicago celebrates his faithfulness, leadership, and the vision God has placed on his life. Truly, Bishop Harrison is a pastor on the rise, leading a church with a heart of God and a mission to transform lives.