The River Church Community

Writing a review for The River Church Community feels like writing a review for your own home. I feel a little biased. But perhaps the fact that a Midwesterner from a large mega church can feel comfortable here and STAY here for over ten years is testimony alone.
There is much that is endearing about this church, but perhaps the best thing about this community is its heart for the local community. Everyone I have known here has a heart of generosity — generosity of money, time, and skill — and is devoted to making a difference and sharing the love of God. The River has strong partnerships internationally and locally, and the stories are inspiring!
This church is welcoming to all regardless of their faith background — whether you are just checking out the Christian faith or have been a believer for many years. To really experience all that is wonderful about this church, you must get involved! Take the time to chat with people instead of leaving right after service. Attend a parenting seminar or book study. Join a small group. Volunteer to serve somewhere. Get to know yourself through «The Healing Path.» I guarantee you that each of these experiences will change your life!

I started attending the River in 1998 when I was invited by my sister. I found the church inviting, with plenty of opportunities to press in, but no pressure. I attended the church for some time before making a commitment to call the church my home.
Over the years, the River has been such a blessing. I’ve made many dear friendships, and the pastoral group has taken an active interest in my life, including and especially the lead pastor Brad. The church does wonderful work with both healing ministries and God’s plan to change the world. It has regular teaching series and workshops focused on healing old wounds that can hold us back, while doing extensive outreach work in the community and around the world.
I love the River and think it’s a great place for seekers and committed Christ-​followers alike.

My family has been attending The River for about 4 ½ years now. We joined the church in part because of some pre-​existing friendships with folks who attended, but also because of the values and personality of the church as a whole. We have found The River to be a welcoming group of people who are trying to understand what it means to live out the Christian faith in the setting of San Jose and Silicon Valley.
We also have two young children, 3 and 5, who enjoy the kids’ program (Sunday school) and have a real sense of belonging with the other children and the adult volunteers. There is a large number of children at The River, and the church places a high priority on serving them well.
The River also has a vibrant set of home groups («small groups»), and this has been particularly enriching for us over these several years. Many of these are organized around particular topics or phases-​of-​life (young adult, singles, families, etc).
Notably, the church also has established long-​term partnerships with local organizations as well as overseas ministries. These relationships enrich our understanding of how God is at work in the world.
Last, but not least, I would say that the leadership of the church is authentic, approachable, and caring. Their goal is to provide a place for folks (including themselves) to grow and learn together.

It’s official, The River Church Community is expanding to two Sunday morning services. Starting January 26, The River will have worship services from 9 – 10:30 and another from 11 – 12:30. See you there!
Did you know they have a Twitter account? Check them out @theriverchurch2.

I did not grow up going to church so I really did not know what to expect when I first came to the River. It ended up being a really great place that I have been going to for over 12 years. I have always really enjoyed the messages and music over the years. The message always seem to be relevant to every day life. I love the music and am glad that its a rock band playing and its not just singing hymns.
I really love the staff at the River and am on a first name basis with most of the staff. The pastors are not just these boss type people at the front of the church. They are actually friends. I have gotten to know many of them over the years and they are all great people with a lot of great knowledge to share.
I have been very active in the church as its not just about what happens on Sundays. They have many ways to get involved. You can join one of the home bible study groups. You can attend a short term learning or book series. You can volunteer on Sundays in one of many positions available. I have been active in Kids Community (where the kids go during Sunday services) in the infant room. You definitely can participate as little or as much as you want.
I call the River home and hope to continue going there for many years to come.

It feels a little weird to write a review about a church, since it’s not a business, but a community of people. Different churches fit different people and families, and you will get out of a community what you put in. That being said, I would give God five stars for what he’s doing at the River! This has been our church for about 4 years and we love the authentic people, intentional children’s ministry, and just the overall heart of the church for things like social justice and healing. I would encourage anyone to check it out! (Plus there’s coffee and bagels if that’s an incentive :-))
Ps. Make sure you are aware that the church moved about a year ago to a new building at 670 Lincoln and now has 2 Sunday morning services. And there are padded chairs now, haha.