EQUINE THERAPY PROGRAM
Pastor Lawrence II
Pastor Lawrence Bishop II has been around horses his entire life. Raised in a family deeply rooted in rodeo and ranching, he learned from an early age the power of trust, resilience, and hard work—qualities that would shape both his ministry and his passion for equine therapy. From riding broncs and bulls on the professional rodeo circuit to sharing stages with world-renowned musicians, Pastor Lawrence has lived an extraordinary life. But at the core of his journey is an unshakable commitment to helping others find healing and purpose, especially young boys who have experienced trauma.
As the visionary behind Restoration Ranch of Ohio, Pastor Lawrence saw the need for a refuge where young men could experience healing, stability, and love in a faith-centered environment. His belief in the transformative power of equine therapy—the way a horse can mirror human emotions, build confidence, and foster trust—led him to integrate this powerful tool into the Ranch’s programming. Trained in equine-assisted interventions, he uses his lifelong skills with horses to help young residents process their past wounds, develop self-discipline, and build a sense of responsibility.
His journey has been anything but ordinary. Whether touring the world as a Christian rock musician, befriending legends like Robbie Knievel and Joe Diffie, or preaching from the saddle (even once riding a bull in church for Dateline), Pastor Lawrence has always been a man who leads boldly. But perhaps his greatest calling is here, at Restoration Ranch, where he gives his time, energy, and heart to saving young lives. His deep faith, unwavering compassion, and hands-on approach make him not just a therapist, but a mentor and role model for the boys who come to the Ranch seeking hope and a fresh start.
Pastor Lawrence’s legacy of restoration continues to shape the lives of those who pass through the gates of the Ranch—one horse, one ride, and one breakthrough at a time.


Biggel
Towering over the rest, Biggel is a gentle giant donated to us from Otterbein University. Standing at an impressive 18.2hh, he's sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to meet him.

Carl
Meet "Stand-A-Lot Carl," the go-to choice for our beginner riders. With a penchant for speed, Carl is always eager to hit the trails, making him an ideal companion for those starting their riding journey.
MEET THE HORSES

Cherokee Woman
Meet our superstar, Cherokee Woman! With an impressive 20-year background as an elite ranch horse, she's the crown jewel of our herd. Plus, did you know she's a stunning sorrel paint horse?

Spencer
Meet Spencer, our pint-sized powerhouse! Despite his small stature, Spencer's heart is as big as they come. A resident favorite, he excels at teaching valuable skills in horse training, proving that size is no obstacle to making a meaningful impact.

Teddy
Teddy, our charming American Thoroughbred cross, is a barn favorite for his friendly demeanor and occasional mischievous streak. His presence brings joy to all who interact with him.

Pocahontus
A seasoned ranch horse with a wealth of experience, Pocahontas is an invaluable teacher for residents learning practical skills in the field. Her extensive ranch career makes her an indispensable part of our program.

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NOVICE LEVEL
At the Novice level, all residents begin their journey in the equine program. This beginner stage focuses on teaching and applying basic riding and horsemanship skills. Residents learn fundamental techniques, safety procedures, and the importance of building a strong bond with their equine partners.
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INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Residents progress to the Intermediate level once they demonstrate developing qualities of horsemanship and riding. This stage emphasizes honing existing skills and introducing more advanced techniques. Residents deepen their understanding of horse behavior, refine their communication with the animals, and work towards greater confidence and control in the saddle.
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