The Brethren Church

“Sharing God’s love in practical ways” is the longstanding motto of The Pump House Ministries in Ashland, Ohio. This practical expression of the Gospel characterizes everything The Pump House is and everything which it gets involved in. The emphasis on ministry that seeks to transform the lives and communities it touches has led the small group Bible study which started in the living room of Founding Pastor Bruce Wilkinson to become a “world class church.”

Over the last several months The Pump House has expanded its pastoral staff to accommodate the needs of the community of Ashland and the individuals who are drawn to her ministry. Even with the addition of new staff, however, there is always a need for more. One exciting way in which The Pump House is addressing these needs and fulfilling her vision to be a church where people are being developed to fit their role in the kingdom is a new internship program. This program, led by Pastor Glenn Sprunger, accepts seminary students, graduate students and members of the community who wish to obtain practical ministry experience while having the benefit of experienced ministry leaders as their coaches. Not only has this program allowed The Pump House to minister in more meaningful ways but it is also serving to raise up the next generation of leaders!

In addition to the internship program The Pump House has also recently launched a Life Coaching ministry in which the pastors, interns and several persons from the “harvest” are being equipped to come alongside of individuals who desire health and change in their lives. This living example of discipleship seeks to personify and model the fact that “two are better than one.” The Life Coaching ministry reinforces the priesthood of all believers and convinces the individuals participating of their kingdom value.

While there is a considerable focus locally on providing more meaningful ministry The Pump House is also blessed to be part of Kingdom efforts in other communities. Firmly captured by the mandate to make disciples wherever one goes The Pump House is involved in church planting efforts in several cities in N.E. Ohio as well as in Toledo, Ohio, and Mississippi. In obedience to the command to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth The Pump House is also working closely with a mission in Kenya, Africa and has had invitations to assist ministries in several other mission fields. Whether global, local or “global” The Pump House is becoming part of many exciting places to be!