River Corner Church, 524 River Corner Road, Conestoga, is in a new season as a church community. Although its history dates to 1760, this small church community is committed to finding new ways to gather as a church and to live out the ways, words, and works of Jesus. The past two years have brought about a new conversationally based Sunday morning format, a new pastor, and a new worship leader.

Jeff McLain started as pastor in April 2022. At that time, the church had been without a pastor for a while and was considering what its future might look like. As McLain came onboard, the church installed new chairs, a new sound system and a new air conditioning system. Members also developed a new conversationally based Sunday morning format, along with new governance and bylaws, and began to have conversations on what it means to be a fruitful and faithful church community in an era when the church is no longer the centerpiece of many people's lives or society overall. Additionally, the church held a concert, with more than 100 people in attendance, a Sunday morning honoring the local fire company, and an Easter sunrise worship gathering that had more than 100 attendees.

McLain has a wealth of knowledge and experience in ministry and leadership. He previously served in numerous pastoral and organizational leadership roles, as well as serving as an artist and event promoter. McLain holds two master's degrees from Fuller Seminary, one in theology and ministry and the other in global leadership. He also holds a graduate certificate in nonprofit management from City Vision University. In January 2024, McLain will begin his doctoral studies at Fuller Seminary. McLain is married to Katie, and they have three daughters.

River Corner Church has also brought onboard Laura Metzler, an experienced worship leader who plays the guitar and piano. The church hopes to reenergize songs from its past and reimagine its worship through newer worship songs. Previously, Metzler led worship for various church communities.

Both McLain and Metzler serve part time. McLain believes bi-vocational leadership is the way of the future of the church.

River Corner Church's primary activities are gathering to worship and experience God; studying Scripture to learn how to follow, live and love like Jesus; journeying through life together; and partnering with the Holy Spirit to bring healing and peace to the places members live, work, and play. The church is committed to being a welcoming, safe, and healing community for those who are seeking or hurting, or who need a place to belong as they figure out what they believe. In addition to finding ways to grow, the church seeks to be caring, simple, laid-back, and intergenerational. Love, honor, humility, and hospitality are important to the church.

Community members are welcome to participate in the church's activities. To learn more about River Corner Church, search for the church on Facebook or Instagram or visit https://rivercornerchurch.com/.