Sunday Mornings - 10 & 11:45am

First and foremost, our hope is that anyone attending our Sunday services would feel warmly welcomed! We realize that coming to a new church for the first time can be a bit stressful so we do our best to create a comfortable atmosphere. Our desire is to create a safe space where we can connect with God and with each other in a real way. Our services last about 75 minutes and include the following:

Kickoff

We begin with a song or two and then provide a brief moment to meet one another. Next we share some announcements about things that are happening at the River.

Message

The message, or sermon, is given by one of the pastors and lasts about 35 minutes. We usually look at a scriptural passage and then discuss how it might apply practically to our daily lives here in a contemporary urban society. Each message also includes practical suggestions of how to move forward in our spiritual lives. (Recent messages can be found here.)

Prayer

Each week a team prays for our church service, asking God to guide them in specific ways. After the message, the team leader will share his or her particular impressions of God may want to do. Then, people who feel these pointers might apply to them are invited to receive prayer at the back of the room during the worship time. Anyone else can also get prayed for.

Communion

The Sacrament of Communion (also called the Eucharist or Lord's Supper) is an opportunity to reflect on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Communion at The River is open to anyone (regardless of church background) who desires to put Jesus at the center of his or her life.

Music

We'll sing for 15 minutes or so. Our goal is provide a quiet and reflective space to respond to the message and to the prayer invitation. During the music some people may slip to the back of the room for prayer, to take communion or to give an offering.

WrapUp

After the service everyone is welcome is to stick around for free drinks, snacks and social time.