Who are the Pastors of River Valley Baptist Church?
Pastor David J. Barker (Pastor Dave) was ordained senior pastor in 2013, and in 2021, Pastor Raymond Tillotson (Pastor Ray) was ordained assistant pastor to oversee the men’s ministries, children’s ministries, and to assist Pastor Dave. Both men try to avail themselves after services to answer questions, and understand the needs of the congregation.
When Should I Arrive, and How Long Do Services Generally Last?
Our Sunday morning worship service starts at 11:00 and usually ends by noon. Visitors will be welcomed to join us for a simple meal following the morning worship, and also for an afternoon service beginning at approximately 1:00. Our afternoon services are varied with holidays and outreaches, and notices of these are posted on our doors and website.
Do I Have to Be a Baptist to Attend this Church?
No. Our members represent diverse backgrounds, and we welcome everyone who chooses to join us in worship. It is our hope and goal to help all attendees to focus on our individual relationships with our Lord Jesus Christ, regardless of our personal backgrounds.
What Version of the Bible Will Be Used?
Believing the King James Version is both complete and accurate, the pastors both use, and recommend this version. Bibles are available for public use, and Scriptures are displayed on the monitors during the messages. Pastors are available to answer further questions on this topic.
Am I Required to Give a Donation at the Offering?
No. We believe that by God’s grace, it is the responsibility of the members of this church to meet her financial needs. Upon arrival, new visitors will be given a welcome packet in which information concerning themselves can be filled out and put into the offering plate, should they so choose.
What is the Purpose of the Visitor Contact Card?
The purpose of the Visitor Contact Card is to avail oneself to the prayers of the church, and further instruction concerning God’s message for mankind. The information is not shared outside of the church.
Do I Have to Wear a Mask, or Be Vaccinated to Attend Services?
No. We do not have Covid requirements. Masks and sanitizers are provided at both doorways, and attendees may do as they feel comfortable.
Will Childcare Be Available during Services?
Yes. Nursery is provided (ages 0-4) with trained staff on Sunday mornings (10:00) and Wednesday evenings (7:00). Sunday School classes begin at 10:00 a.m. for all other ages, and children may be dismissed for Children’s Church (ages 5-12) after the song/worship in the general assembly, at approximately 11:20.
What Kind of Adult Education/Spiritual Growth Opportunities Do You Offer?
Adults have a number of choices for group settings:
Adult Sunday School, Sunday Mornings 10:00 a.m.
Ladies’ Bible Study, Bi-Weekly Tuesday's, 2:00 p.m.
Men’s Bible Study, 1st and 3rd Tuesday's, 6:00 p.m.
Men’s Fellowship, 2nd Tuesday of the Month, 6:00p.m.
What Should I Wear to Worship Services?
You will find diversity in dress manner at River Valley, holding to modesty, and endeavoring to “… Let all things be done decently and in order…” as per 1 Corinthians 14:40.
What Can I Expect in The Worship Service?
Worship services are intended to bring praise and focus toward God, and to prepare hearts for the hearing of His Word. Endeavoring to please the Lord, both new, (Psalm 33:3), and traditional music are used for worship. We ask, please, to remember to silence phones.