History & Mission

This History & Mission of Gospel Express...

Lancaster, PA Office (1994-2000)

Columbus, NC Office (2000-Present)

Nelson & Sarah Coblentz

In 1984, Nelson & Sarah Coblentz felt God’s call on their lives to proclaim the gospel to the world through preaching and singing. With the assistance of a Board of Directors, they formed the Gospel Express Evangelistic Team in Lancaster County, PA. The headquarters moved to Columbus, NC in 2000.

The initial focus of Gospel Express was stateside prison & singing ministry, but it has grown to become quite diverse. What started with the Coblentz Family expanded into a multi-faceted evangelistic and discipleship ministry throughout North America, with a variety of personnel and family ministry teams. In 1997, an international ministry of compassion and evangelism was birthed in Ghana, Africa. That led to international opportunities in Kenya and Uganda, and eventually, Nigeria and India. Nelson continues to develop the International ministry and to serve others in a mentorship role.

The Dave Miller family joined Gospel Express in 1999. Dave transitioned into the role of Executive Director in February of 2020 and the Miller Family continues the ministry of music and preaching. Dave and Ruth Ann, along with all the ministry staff, are blessed to build on the platform of faithful ministry established by Nelson and Sarah over the years.

Gospel Express is a 501-C3 non-profit ministry. Donations are tax-deductible.

Mission Statement:

We believe these three Biblical mandates from God’s inspired Word form the core of our mission:

Evangelism: “And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.’ ” Mark 16:15
Discipleship: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20a
Compassion: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.” Matthew 25:35-36