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THE RIVER CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Here are a few familiar names and faces you will see around The River during your visit. We can't wait to meet you!
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.
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.
Education: B.A. in Kinesiology / M.A. in Ministry and Leadership
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.
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.
Education: B.A. in Bible and Pastoral Ministries / M.A. in Theology and Leadership
Lisa Cox
CHILDREN'S MINISTRY DIRECTOR
Lisa grew up in Oakdale, CA and continues to live there with her husband of 17 years, Lonnie, and their 3 children. Before becoming co-direct of children's ministries, Lisa worked as a Registered Dietitian within the community sector.
Lisa's passion for children and Jesus make for a great combination. Seeing Jesus through a child's eyes is both exciting and humbling. Lisa is excited to be a part of what Jesus is doing with children's ministries here at The River.
Education: B.S. in Dietetics and Food Administration
