The Story of Jericho’s Light Club

by Cozi Ingerham-Tong

Jericho’s Light Club came to life through the vision of Pastor James Ingerham, who founded the ministry in 2006. James’s journey to this calling was extraordinary. Once a homeless crack addict on the streets of Franklinton, he turned his life around after dedicating himself to the Lord. After entering the Refuge Ministry for Men, James experienced a profound transformation. Freed from his addictions, he went on to live and work at the Refuge for years, helping others find freedom through their relationship with Jesus Christ.

During this time, James pursued theological education, earning a master’s degree in ministry and becoming ordained as a pastor through the Southern Ohio Ministerial Association. In 2005, James had a remarkable dream, repeated over three nights, envisioning a church that resembled a bar. God directed him to return to the streets of Franklinton to “bring in his brothers and sisters off the streets.” The ministry, God said, was to be called Jericho’s, symbolizing the act of “breaking down the walls of adversity.” Rather than serving alcohol, this “light club” would offer the “living water” of Jesus Christ.

With the help of Pastor Tom Thompson of the Refuge, James’s vision became a reality. Pastor Thompson assisted James in finding a building on West Broad Street to establish the nontraditional church and provided volunteers to remodel the space. The front room featured a stage for live Christian bands, along with a bar and barstools where various churches served free hot meals, coffee, and desserts every Friday and Saturday night. Saturday evenings included church services called “Words of Hope,” where attendees were invited to accept Jesus Christ, receive prayer for healing, or seek support for other needs. The back room offered pool tables, foosball tables, card tables, and more, creating a free and safe space for neighborhood residents to enjoy fellowship and wholesome fun. Beyond this, the ministry provided Bible studies, men’s and women’s classes, counseling, food, clothing, blankets, tents, and sleeping bags. It also helped individuals find Christian rehabilitation programs.

Cozi became a volunteer at Jericho’s Light Club, and soon, God brought Pastor James and Cozi together as a couple to serve in ministry. The two were married on Valentine’s Day in front of the very people who had brought them together at Jericho’s.

In 2010, Pastors James and Cozi relocated to Florida to continue their ministry to the addicted, afflicted, and homeless. Pastor James passed away in 2016, but not before leading hundreds to Christ and impacting thousands of lives in Ohio and Florida. After his passing, the Jericho’s ministry continued through the efforts of Pastor Peggy Forby, Don and Susan Burton, Patty and Wid Lewis, and numerous dedicated volunteers.

In 2023, the ministry faced a challenge when it lost the lease to its building at 1201 W. Broad Street. However, St. John’s Episcopal Church graciously stepped in, offering their kitchen and basement space on Friday and Saturday evenings to continue serving Franklinton’s needy residents.

Jericho’s Light Club remains a testament to the vision God gave Pastor James almost two decades ago. With the unwavering support of volunteers who generously give their time and resources, the dream continues to shine brightly, providing hope and help to those in need in Franklinton. Where God guides, He provides!