The River Church of God

The RIVER Church has had four Pastors in their history.

Founding Pastor, Reverend Rueben Atkins
1970 – 1997

Reverend Jack Sollogub
1997 - 2007

Bishop Daniel R. Sturgill
2007 - 2011

Bishop Michael W. Smith
2011 - Present

The River Church was originally called the West Palm Beach Church of God. It was birthed through much hard work and prayer from Reverend Atkins. Pastor Atkins vacationed in West Palm Beach for several years and was always troubled that he could not attend a Church of God because there was not one here. After asking the Lord why, His answer was, “Because YOU have not started it yet!” Soon after, this great church began an incredible journey.

The West Palm Beach Church of God began growing at a rapid rate, reaching an average attendance as high as 500, as news spread of a spirit-filled church that was experiencing Revival! In the early days, the Spirit of God would fill the church during worship in such a tangible way that all they could do is worship Him more!

The church became known through the area for being a church that:
Ø Worships until the presence of God comes.
Ø Loves every person with the Love of God.
Ø Preaches the uncompromising Word of God.
Ø Prays with signs and wonders following.

In 1997, the church entered the waters of change. With the retirement of our founding pastor, a difficult season of transition was entered. Pastor Sollogub skillfully navigated the waters of change. His love for people held the church together through this difficult season and began laying the foundation for the future. Pastor Sollogub’s tenure was marked by his administrative skill as he led the church into the 21st Century. Under his direction, the West Palm Beach Church of God was renamed The River Church of God.

The RIVER Church re-entered the waters of change in March 2007 when Pastor Dan was appointed to be our Lead Pastor, becoming the third pastor in our history as well as the youngest and the first to have young children still at home. Pastor Dan's tenure was marked by a renewed passion for worship and making The RIVER Church into a place of grace, love and acceptance.

In October 2011, with the direction of God and by the power of the Holy Spirit, The River Church continued to maneuver the waters of change. It is in this new season that we received our "gift" from God in the person of Bishop Michael W. Smith. The fourth pastor in the history of this great church, Pastor Michael and his wife have come with a new zest and zeal to lead us to another level in Christ. He continues to lead us in our REVOLUTION!!!

Though time and changes have come to this great church, we are still known for being a Worshipping, Loving, Preaching and Praying church that is experiencing Revival once again!!