Hey Everyone,

When people ask me about Riverside I'm never sure exactly what to tell them.  What they're wondering (at least I think this is it) is whether Riverside will be the right church for them.  That's the million dollar question, isn't it?  Some of us are looking for a church experience that is similar to a really good one we had to leave behind for some reason.  Others of us are looking for something that is as far from what we've experienced as you can get.  Whatever you're looking for I guess the only way to figure out if Riverside is right for you is to try it for yourself and see.  We're the perfect fit for some people... while others run from the building screaming (although to be truthful that's only happened a couple of times ;0).

Riverside is a unique place.  We believe God has given us the task of doing church "different".  Consequently there are plenty of people who are extremely comfortable in "churchy" environments that don't think we're doing it right.  We don't use the secret lingo, sing the right songs or follow the traditions that seem to be indispensible to them.  It's a sad but true fact that as we try to make Riverside a place where people who are new to church can feel like they belong, we have a hard time with those who already feel like they know the secret handshake.  

What's so different about Riverside?  We try to make it very easy for those who are new feel at home.  We don't make you stand up and say anything.  We don't mob you with ushers.  We try to make our services as easy to understand and as comfortable as they can be so folks can relax with a cup of coffee while they are presented with a fairly radical message- let someone else direct your life (that someone else would be God by the way... not the Pastor or anyone else from Riverside). 

We also try to make our services as entertaining as possible.  The Bible says that when Jesus spoke the people listened to him "with delight" (Mark 12:37).  I don't understand why more churches don't try to follow His example.  At Riverside you will hear jokes, see humorous clips from movies and TV, and be treated to lessons & song services that will put a spring in your step as you leave.  

So why not give us a try?  Join us this Sunday.  Get there a few minutes early because even the countdown (started 5 minutes before the service begins) is a blast.  Grab a cup of coffee & a donut and get ready to be delighted.

Peace.
 
Pastor Ed