AMelia & Jon's story
Amelia and Jon grew up in different faith cultures and different parts of the world, making it difficult to find a church where they both felt comfortable. It wasn't until they went to The River that they truly found a church that made them both feel at home.
Growing up in the South
Jon grew up going to church in the Southern part of the US, attending what he called a white, evangelical church. "Being a white guy from the South, I had no idea how to interact with someone from Indonesia because I came from a very homogenous background," Jon said.
Faith in Indonesia
Amelia, on the other hand, was born in Indonesia, and church was always a part of her life growing up. Her dad was a Christian, and her mom became a Christian once she married Amelia's dad. However, Amelia's extended family and surrounding environment were mostly not Christian. Now attending The River, Amelia loves that she can connect with people from all different spiritual backgrounds.
"One of the things I love about The River is this idea of connection," she explained.
A Family Together at Church
After trying three or four churches, Jon and Amelia found The River. According to Jon, The River is "probably the least-threatening, least-judgmental community of believers that I've ever been around personally."
Now, The River is a place for Amelia to connect with different backgrounds and for Jon to explore his faith without any pressure. Jon said anyone looking to explore the idea of church, faith and spirituality should visit The River.
"I think you're going to have the space and the resources to learn more and not be pushed to make any decisions," he said.
About Our Church
The River was founded by a group of like-minded individuals who wanted to create a vibrant and diverse church for the people in downtown Manhattan. We value the diversity of New York and make it a part of our church by welcoming people from all backgrounds no matter your identity, orientation, race or faith background. We believe Jesus came to extend love and grace to everyone, and our church tries to do the same.
When you come to a Sunday service, you'll hear intellectually stimulating sermons that also help you apply faith to your everyday life. Our classes and life groups aim to give you tools to build important relationships with your community and the living God. Our goal is to provide a safe space for you to explore your faith in new and meaningful ways.
Visit The River Today
If you've been searching for a church to call home, check out The River. You'll find a welcoming atmosphere, a diverse community and a place to grow your faith. Stop by The River for a visit, or come to a Sunday service.
Growing up in the South
Jon grew up going to church in the Southern part of the US, attending what he called a white, evangelical church. "Being a white guy from the South, I had no idea how to interact with someone from Indonesia because I came from a very homogenous background," Jon said.
Faith in Indonesia
Amelia, on the other hand, was born in Indonesia, and church was always a part of her life growing up. Her dad was a Christian, and her mom became a Christian once she married Amelia's dad. However, Amelia's extended family and surrounding environment were mostly not Christian. Now attending The River, Amelia loves that she can connect with people from all different spiritual backgrounds.
"One of the things I love about The River is this idea of connection," she explained.
A Family Together at Church
After trying three or four churches, Jon and Amelia found The River. According to Jon, The River is "probably the least-threatening, least-judgmental community of believers that I've ever been around personally."
Now, The River is a place for Amelia to connect with different backgrounds and for Jon to explore his faith without any pressure. Jon said anyone looking to explore the idea of church, faith and spirituality should visit The River.
"I think you're going to have the space and the resources to learn more and not be pushed to make any decisions," he said.
About Our Church
The River was founded by a group of like-minded individuals who wanted to create a vibrant and diverse church for the people in downtown Manhattan. We value the diversity of New York and make it a part of our church by welcoming people from all backgrounds no matter your identity, orientation, race or faith background. We believe Jesus came to extend love and grace to everyone, and our church tries to do the same.
When you come to a Sunday service, you'll hear intellectually stimulating sermons that also help you apply faith to your everyday life. Our classes and life groups aim to give you tools to build important relationships with your community and the living God. Our goal is to provide a safe space for you to explore your faith in new and meaningful ways.
Visit The River Today
If you've been searching for a church to call home, check out The River. You'll find a welcoming atmosphere, a diverse community and a place to grow your faith. Stop by The River for a visit, or come to a Sunday service.