What began as a small idea shared by WCU students in 2009 has grown into a well-established ministry in Cullowhee.
Video by Chandler Hensley
The Bridge is a non-denominational church in Cullowhee that has been an active ministry since 2013.
Background
“The first thoughts of what became The Bridge Church happened during my personal prayer time in 2009. I had a big heart to reach students on campus, so I shared my desires with Caleb Brower and David Lewkowicz, my good friends,” said Josh Hyde, senior pastor.
In 2012, the group of three met regularly with their spouses, along with Andrew Browder, WCU alumni, to pray and strategize the next steps. After a few months, Hyde and Lewkowicz shared their desire to plant a church with the others.
“After sharing our desire to plant a church, we began having prayer meetings, which eventually led to our launch in February 2013,” said Hyde.
After launching, the church quickly became a popular ministry for students and community members alike, at times having over 1000 people in attendance.
Campus/Community Involvement
“Student Leadership Team” (SLT) at The Bridge is a primary example of student/campus involvement, where Donovan Turnmire, student pastor, and his wife, Elizabeth Turnirme teach students biblical lessons to effectively lead “connect-groups” on campus. Apart from this, many students participate in community-building events on campus such as the “mid-week” service.
Even if you aren’t a student, there are many opportunities to be involved. The church takes yearly mission trips internationally to serve the physical needs of others, while also partnering with local ministries to serve the Cullowhee and Sylva community.
In June of 2022, the church traveled to Costa Rica in partnership with Filter of Hope, an organization focused on providing clean water to communities across the globe. According to Turnmire, another trip like this is in the works. If you are interested, check it out here.
The Bridge is currently “portable,” meaning that for every event, students, locals, and staff arrive on-site to set up speakers, and equipment to host a service. For years, services have been held on-campus in locations such as Homebase, Bardo FPAC, Coulter Recital Hall, and the University Center Grand Room.
Sunday services are currently held at the Cullowhee Valley Gymnasium at 11 a.m. To be involved, click here.
Future Plans
On March 4, 2021, the church purchased property near campus, which will eventually be the primary location for services. “The building and property are still in early development, but we hope to have a base building that is usable by spring or summer of 2024, ” said Josh Hyde, senior pastor.
