About
To know Jesus, to be known, and to make Him known
What We Value
The Authority of Scripture
We are driven by Scripture in everything we do, and devoted to exegetical teaching and preaching. We are intentional to make the Bible the core driver of every ministry we do.
Committed to Intentional DiscipleshipÂ
We understand everyone has a different story, and life-changing discipleship is both messy and challenging, but always worth it. Everything that happens at Riverwood is to this end, that we would pursue Jesus, grow together in community, and serve others. There is no one size fits all spiritual journey for every person, but through connection and intentional shepherding, deep life-changing discipleship is possible.
A Place Where People Can Be Known
We are dedicated to creating a space where people are seen, known, and connected in the body of Christ. We value people over programs, seek to build a home-like atmosphere rather than corporate-style clarity, and strive for people to be known.Â
Accessible and Adaptable Leadership
We strive to have pastors and leaders who are accessible to people, leading in sensitivity to the Spirit of God and the needs of people, allowing plans to change as the Spirit leads. We aim to be transparent, extend trust, and empower people to share in that same mission.
A Multigenerational Community
The heart of our God is to reach every age. It requires both effort and intentionality to be truly multigenerational. The ministry and culture we cultivate is designed to foster intentional discipleship, worship, and community across all ages. We consider this not only valuable but essential to the life and future of the Church.
Community-Focused Posture
Riverwood is not just in Kent but part of it. Our heart is to reflect the gospel of Jesus in the community to which God has called us. We strive to be good neighbors, embody and share the gospel, and make a positive impact in our community.
Who We Are
Riverwood is a local, independent church committed to deepening people's understanding and relationship with Jesus. We encourage everyone to pursue Him in their everyday lives. Beyond this, we are passionate about creating a space where individuals can truly be known – through our community, in small groups, and during our Sunday gatherings. Riverwood is a welcoming place, offering a sense of home to people from all backgrounds. As a missional church, our goal extends further; we are dedicated to making Jesus known. This mission is at the heart of our work, both here in Kent, Ohio, and around the world. We strive to share His teachings and love, inviting others to join us in this journey of faith and community.
How We Got Started
Riverwood Chapel began its journey as a plant of The Chapel in Akron – planted with faith and purpose. Our first service, marking the beginning of a new chapter, was held on September 15, 1991, at Kent Roosevelt High School. Since then, we have blossomed into a nurturing spiritual home for several hundred families across Portage and Summit counties. The genesis of Riverwood was inspired by the visionary leadership at The Chapel. They dreamed of establishing an independent evangelical church dedicated to serving the greater Kent-Stow community. With the steadfast support of our 'mother church', a congregation sharing a unified vision for the ministry, and an ever-growing community presence, Riverwood has been blessed to flourish. We are a testament to the strength of faith, the power of community, and the beauty of shared dreams and goals.
Where We're Headed
What's the bottom line? Riverwood is committed to seeing lives changed through the power of the gospel. That will never change. We have a hope of deep impact not just in our community but also at Kent State University. We see this as part of our mission as we minister to not just Kent, put the whole of Portage County.
We know beliefs are important when choosing a church, and we want you to know ours.
What This Means for You
What does this mean for you? Most importantly, you're always welcome at Riverwood Chapel. Wherever you're at in your faith, you'll always be welcome as part of the Riverwood family as we all walk together in obedience to Jesus and the mission of the gospel.
Beyond that, if you're ready to plan your first visit, click here. If you want to learn more about our beliefs as a church, click here.
Or if you'd simply like to get in touch with a person on our lead team directly, click the button below.
Our Team
It is important to know who is leading and serving! Here is where you can see and contact them if needed.
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