What does it mean to be a member?

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At its core, membership means that you’ve decided to call The River your home. It’s more than just attending services — it’s recognizing that the Holy Spirit is drawing you here and committing yourself to this family of believers. It means you believe in the vision and mission of The River and are ready to link arms with us in the work God has called us to do.

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In 1 Corinthians 12, the Bible tells us that every believer is a “member” (or body part) of the Body of Christ. Just like a hand, foot, eye, or ear, each part has a unique role and purpose. But a body doesn’t function until all the parts come together. That’s what church membership is: God’s people assembling together to worship, grow, and serve.

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When Scripture speaks of the “Church,” it doesn’t mean a building — it means a gathering of believers. Those who put their faith in Jesus are called to join together for fellowship, instruction, worship, prayer, and service. Our relationship with the Lord is strengthened in the context of these gatherings. In short: to be fully connected to Jesus, we need to be connected to His Church.

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Being a member means that you:

• Worship faithfully.

• Serve others with your gifts.

• Pray with and for one another.

• Support the work of the ministry.

• Give generously as God leads.

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Here at The River, we see membership as a Covenant Partnership — a family commitment to help, encourage, and spur one another on as we share the Gospel with the world.

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Who we are

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The River Worship Centre was birthed out of an existing evangelistic ministry led by Pastor D.J. Edwards. From the beginning, people gathered to hear the Word preached and joined themselves to the call.

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Unlike many churches that are part of a denomination or governed by an outside headquarters, The River is an independent, non-denominational, Pentecostal congregation. We operate under voluntary accountability with a board of directors that carries the legal responsibilities of our nonprofit (D.J. Edwards Ministries, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization).

 

We are not a “voting church.” Instead, we seek God’s direction together through prayer, conversation, and the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Here, membership isn’t about legal status — it’s about family.

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Our mission is simple and clear:

We exist to bring REAL HOPE for REAL LIFE by declaring the Gospel, building the family of God, and inspiring our community.

 

 

 

Our Unique Approach

We believe in using creative, innovative methods to reach people with the Gospel. Our building functions as a live stage theater, allowing us to host concerts, plays, outreaches, and community events.

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Pastor D.J.’s evangelistic ministry began at the age of 12 using illusions and sleight of hand as a way to capture attention and open doors to share Jesus. That creative spirit continues today as we find fresh ways to engage hearts and minds with the life-changing message of Christ.

 

 

Membership at The River

Several times a year, we host Membership Sunday. During this special service, those wishing to join are invited forward. Together, we read our Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Membership Commitment, and by a raised hand, you acknowledge your agreement. At that moment, you are officially welcomed as a member and given a Certificate of Membership.

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Before Membership Sunday, please read the attached documents carefully to ensure you share our Biblical foundation and vision:

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• Statement of Faith

• Mission Statement

• Membership Commitment

 

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Finances

We believe in transparency. Our financial records are an open book, and detailed reports are available from the church office upon request.

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