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Hey There.

It's nice to meet you.

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Ryan Poling

LEAD PASTOR

Originally from the Bay Area, Ryan has lived in Oakdale, CA for about 15 years. After graduating college and becoming a teacher for 10+ years, God called Ryan into full-time ministry at The River. He has a heart for families to know and embrace the Truth about Jesus Christ and to see lives radically changed through the power of the Holy Spirit. Making and growing disciples is his passion as we open up God's Word together and seek to become more like Christ.

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Ryan is married to his beautiful wife, Charissa, and they have four children - Caleb, Logan, Maile, and Dylan. He loves to play sports, coach his kid's teams, spend quality time with his wife, go for a run, and study God's Word. 

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Ryan graduated with a B.A. in Kinesiology / M.A. in Ministry and Leadership

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Kent Roberts 

EXECUTIVE AND FOUNDING PASTOR

Kent (a.k.a. "pk") is passionate about his relationship with Jesus and being "all-in" as he pursues this exciting journey of following his Savior. He is first-and-foremost a fully devoted follower of Jesus; engaged in making and growing disciples through sharing his faith with people he meets, teaching God's Word, and using his gifts in pastoral leadership. Kent is the founding pastor of The River and is excited to now serve as The River's Executive Pastor as our journey continues through a progression of leadership. He absolutely has a blast being a part of The River community. 

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Kent loves doing life with his wife Rouze', their two amazing daughters and sons-in-laws, their seven phenomenal grandchildren, and the incredibly gifted brothers and sisters in Christ at The River and around the world.  You may cross paths with Kent on a walking or jogging trail, grabbing a cup of coffee, shouting encouragement to a grandchild from the sideline, or along a stream casting a fly rod. 

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Kent graduated with B.A. in Bible and Pastoral Ministries / M.A. in Theology and Leadership

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Brea DeRespini

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY DIRECTOR

Brea has been a resident of Oakdale for almost 30 years, fostering strong community ties and a deep understanding of the local culture. In 2013 Brea became a stay at home mom of 2 young children. While looking for ways to stay social and meet new friends Brea joined Mothers of Preschoolers, now MOMco, in 2014. Quickly, she fell in love with the people and the ministry and jumped into leadership. Brea has been a cherished member of The River Christian Community for many years and was called by God in 2024 to step into a new role serving as the Children Ministry Director. With a deep passion for nurturing the spiritual growth of young minds, she brings warmth, creativity, and dedication to her role.

Brea and Darryl are blessed with two wonderful children Lyndee and Jackson, who inspire her daily commitment to faith and family. Brea's leadership in the children's ministry is marked by her genuine love for teaching and her unwavering devotion to guiding the next generation on knowing and growing their love for Jesus Christ.

Brea graduated from CSU Stanislaus in 2007 with a BA in Communication Studies.

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David Barlow

STUDENT DIRECTOR

David Barlow is a fully committed follower of Jesus Christ with a passion for helping students and young adults become devoted believers in Jesus. His hope is to see the Lord work in the lives of the next generation in a powerful way, impacting the Kingdom of God throughout the world. David’s role as Student Director allows him to mentor and guide young individuals, fostering their spiritual growth and helping them navigate the challenges of life with a Christ-centered perspective.

David grew up in the small town of Soldotna, Alaska, where his father works for Samaritan's Purse. This environment instilled in David a heart for mission work and a desire to serve others.

David has been married to his wife, Kathryn, for four wonderful years, and together they have a son named James. As a family, they are dedicated to their faith and committed to serving their community.

After marrying Kathryn, David moved to California to pursue a career in sales while attending college. David graduated from Moody Bible Institute with a Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership & Biblical Studies. This academic background has equipped him with a strong foundation in theological studies and practical ministry skills.

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Matt Shumaker

WORSHIP DIRECTOR

Matt is a dedicated worship leader and pastor with over 20 years of experience serving in various churches in California and Hawaii. He is a serial entrepreneur and enjoys turning hobbies into businesses. He is a sought after business consultant, teaching as an adjunct professor for Modesto and Merced College as well as advising companies such as Joseph Gallo Farms and Foster Farms Chicken among others and his passion for creativity shines through in his music, art, and wooden creations.

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Matt is married to Jennifer and blessed with a wonderful family, including 4 children and 3 stepchildren. A lifelong adventurer, Matt has been camping since he was just three weeks old and has a deep love for anything involving water. During the summers, he and his wife, and their kids enjoy kayaking down the Stanislaus River, paddle boarding on local lakes, and spending quality time together outdoors.

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Matt graduated from California Baptist University in Riverside California with a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts Ministry. He also completed his Master's Degree in Business Administration.

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