ABOUT
The River Church
The River Church
A life-giving, Spirit-led community committed to building people,
strengthening families, and serving our city with love and excellence.
In A Glance
We are a family of believers in Jesus Christ, called to show forth the joy of living a Christ-centered life. We accomplish this through our freedom in worship and our structured doctrinal discipline that empowers us to reflect the character and nature of Christ in the earth. We are to live as beacons of light in dark places. We are a sanctuary of relief and a refuge of hope. It is our vision to become the city's church.
The River Church is more than a gathering; it's a movement. Our heart is to see God's presence transform lives, heal hearts, and renew hope in Durham and beyond. Here, you'll find faith that feels real, worship that moves the soul, and people who genuinely care.
Scriptural Foundation
Ezekiel 47:1–9
"Where the river flows, everything will live."
The prophet Ezekiel envisions waters flowing from the temple—deepening as they move outward, bringing life wherever they go. This vision mirrors our call as a church: to be a life-giving current flowing from God's presence into the heart of our city, transforming every sphere it touches.
Our Vision & Mission
"We are the city's church—healing its heart, serving its souls, and shaping its future."
We love God and we love people—because to serve God is to serve people.
- We serve who God sends – every person is a divine appointment.
- We serve in excellence – because excellence honors God and inspires people.
- We serve in every sector of society – bringing the Kingdom to business, education, government, arts, and family life.
The Three Pillars of The River
Presence
“The water flowed from under the threshold of the temple.” Everything begins in God’s presence.
People
“Swarms of living creatures will live wherever the river flows.” People are the evidence of life; we build inclusive, restorative community.
Purpose
“Where the river flows, everything will live.” We carry life into dead places—renewing systems, families, and souls until transformation is visible in our city.
Strategic Framework — The Flow of The River
Church (Encounter)
Worship + Word experiences that center on God's transforming presence.
Threshold (Equipping)
From inspiration → formation through teaching, discipleship, and growth.
Territory (Engagement)
Going out as living rivers—serving, leading, and creating impact everywhere.
“We are not simply a church in the city; we are a church for the city.”
Join us this week — encounter Presence, find People, live on Purpose.