Rivertown Church

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Baptism

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RiverTown's Fall Baptism Service from RiverTown Church.

Sermon Archive

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Calendar

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Resources

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Sermon Video

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Podcasts

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Media

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Life Groups

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Life Groups
At RiverTown our goal is to lead people to enjoy God. To accomplish this, we seek to create a culture of authentic and relational community. True spiritual growth and life change take place as we build relationships in settings that encourage transparency and openness. The Life Groups we have created in our church foster that type of environment.

We believe one of the best ways to connect relationally and grow spiritually is through our small groups. Our life group environments are a great place to build authentic and meaningful relationships. They also provide rewarding and satisfying experiences for discovering and developing your full potential in Christ, or to investigate what a relationship with Christ is all about

Current Life Groups

Be sure to check out and join a Life Group this year! If you need more information about our Life Groups, contact Kevin at kevin@rivertown.com. Here's the current slate of Life Groups at RiverTown:

Arlington Life Group
2nd and 4th Mondays
6:30 PM
Matt and Jessica Bush
904-673-0350
matt@rivertown.com

Baymeadows/East Hampton Life Group
1st and 3rd Wednesdays
6:45 PM
Phil and Jill Atter
904-477-8646
patter@firstam.com

Baymeadows/Southside Life Group
2nd and 4th Sundays
9:15 AM / Childcare Provided
Boyd and Brittany Bettis
904-521-4357
boyd@rivertown.com

East Arlington Life Group
2nd and 4th Wednesdays
6:45 PM / Childcare Provided
Dan and Amber Adams
904-626-1865
dan@rivertown.com

Julington Creek Life Group
Every Tuesday
7:00 PM
Mark and Karen Whalen
904-464-0934
jmkwhalen@comcast.net

Southside Life Group (New!)
1st and 3rd Saturdays
5:00 PM
Gene and Ginny Hays
904-651-5809
gene_hays@yahoo.com

Youth Life Group
Every Sunday
9:45 AM
Natalie Self and Mark Whalen
904-673-0350
matt@rivertown.com

Students

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RiverTown Students
Wednesday Nights | 6:30 - 8:30 PM

On Wednesday nights we meet for a time of Bible Study, Worship, Fellowship, and FREE FOOD. At 7:00 we begin with a time of Eating (pizza usually) and studying the Word of God.

Sunday Small Groups | 9:45 AM

Sunday mornings are also very important for the youth ministry at RiverTown. Small Groups for youth are featured at 9:45 AM with youth attending the 11:00 AM worship service afterwards.

Other Events

Throughout the year, we will also have other events through the youth ministry at RiverTown. We will do mission projects, camps, fellowships, and other gatherings. This summer is going to be an incredible time in the life of our youth group. We will be going to camp, participating in mission projects, going to Six Flags, going to lunch together, and doing many other events, fellowships, and Bible Studies throughout the summer. I hope to see you there!!!

Matt Bush, Families Pastor

Children

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KidTown | Elementary Children
In KidTown, your child will experience and enjoy God at church like never before, with great games, music and video, created to teach God's Word and present God's timeless truth in fun and innovative ways. He or she won't want to miss a single week. In our Sunday morning KidTown environment, your child will benefit from having a great time in a great environment.

In KidTown, your child will most importantly learn God's word, and will also gain solid values in a safe and fun environment! KidTown will elevate your child's child's love for God, personal character, knowledge of God's word, and commitment to integrity. Your kids will love it- and be better because of it!

TinyTown

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TinyTown | Babies & Preschoolers
Babies

The RiverTown Nursery is a loving and peaceful environment designed to care for and nurture children birth through 18 months. In this environment your child is cared for in a safe, clean and loving environment. In this environment your child will be cared for and taught by loving, qualified teachers. On a side note, all of our children's teachers and helpers have been screened through a background check.

We recommend parents bring a diaper bag and bottle, both labeled with your child's name. Please feel welcome to bring any comfort items your child might have such as a blanket or favorite toy. You will also want to bring a change of clothes for your child just in case it is needed.

Preschoolers

The RiverTown Preschool is an exciting and creative environment filled with fun, laughter and learning. Designed for children ages 13 months through five years old, your child won't want to miss a week! We have age-appropriate classes for your child within RiverTown's preschool environment. Each week overflows with imagination as your child learns about the Bible through games, crafts, age-appropriate Bible lessons and application activities.

Your child will love learning in our preschool environment!

FAQ's
How old does my child have be to attend the RiverTown nursery?

Our recommendation is that your child is at least six weeks old prior to bringing him or her to the RiverTown Nursery. If you would like to attend the adult worship services prior to your child being six weeks old, you are welcome to worship in the hallway just outside the back door to the auditorium. There is a comfortable place to sit there, and you will be able to hear as the doors are kept open during the service.

What do you do to provide safety for my children?

Safety and security are of utmost importance to us and we want you to feel safe and comfortable leaving your baby in our care. All of our children's volunteers are screened with a comprehensive background check to make sure that those spending time with your child will love and nurture your child. There will be an adult at the Kids welcome area to greet you, obtain information on your child and escort first-time guests to your baby's room.

Parents are given a unique security number that corresponds with a sticker placed on the baby. Information is taken on the location of the parent and parents are given a corresponding security card to use when picking up their child. We strive to insure your child's safety while in our care.

Where is the RiverTown Preschool?

The RiverTown Preschool is conveniently located near the auditorium. As you enter the main building, you will see our baby and preschool welcome area just to the left of the entrance. There you will find the friendly face of someone who can register your child, and help you take your child to his or her age-appropriate room.

How will you contact me if my child needs me?

If your child becomes inconsolable or unwell, we will come find you. We will be adding a pager system in the near future.

How does RiverTown keep parents involved in their child's experience at church?

We believe the best way for parents to be involved in what their child is learning is to become a part of the team that teaches your child. Each week, volunteers do everything from greeting families to teaching and leading kids in worship and in a Bible story time. We will send a resource home each with your child each week that will help you interact with your child and enjoy a worship or Bible story time together with your child

How can I volunteer with preschoolers?

There are many positions available where you can serve. These include greeting, teaching, or helping. For more information on how you can be involved, call us at info@rivertown.com. You will need to agree to a background check as all of our children's volunteers are screened.

Ministries

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Connect
We want to see you connect with Jesus and other believers through the various ministries and groups of RiverTown Church. Look to the sidebar to the left for links to the web pages for our environments for Little Ones (Tiny Town), Children (KidTown), Students, and Adults (Life Groups).

Membership

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Membership at RiverTown

Committing yourself to be a member of RiverTown Church lets you know who we are, what we believe, where we’re going, and how you can be a part of it. It essentially means that you are a partner with us in our effort to share the love of God with our community and world. It also allows you to join the family of RiverTown, and to call RiverTown your spiritual home.

Membership Application
If you're interested in becoming an official member of RiverTown Church please fill out the following form. Completion of this document will automatically RSVP you for the next Membership Class.

BASIC INFORMATION
Name

First

Last
Home Phone
(XXX)

XXX-

XXXX

Cell Phone
(XXX)

XXX-

XXXX

Email Address

MORE ABOUT YOU
Have you made a decision to follow Christ at some point in your life?
Yes
No
If you have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, please briefly describe your salvation experience.

What is God doing in your life? How is He using you now?

Have you been baptized? If so, when?

LIFE AT RIVERTOWN
Are you currently volunteering somewhere at RiverTown Church? If so, which ministry?

Are you currently involved in a Life Group at RiverTown Church? If so, which life group?

Are you currently a member of another church? If so, which one?

Briefly describe your church background.

Are you willing to call RiverTown your church family and home? If so, why?

Are you willing to participate in a Life Group at RiverTown? If so why? If not, why?

MORE ABOUT RIVERTOWN
How do you see God using you to help fulfill the mission and vision of RiverTown?

What is the purpose of RiverTown Church? (can be found on website, www.rivertown.com)

What is the vision of RiverTown Church? (can be found on website, www.rivertown.com)

What are the core values of RiverTown Church? (can be found on website, www.rivertown.com)

MORE ABOUT CHRISTIANITY
How does a person become a Christian?

Do good works play any role in a person's salvation?

How does a person become right with God?

How important is a Church home for a Christian?

How important is it for a Christian to worship with other believers weekly? In other words, how important is it to go to church weekly?

How important is it for a Christian to be part of a smaller group (like a Small Group or Life Group) for encouragement and fellowship?

Volunteer

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Volunteer
Serve. Give back. Impact others. Leave a legacy.

We practice the truth that every believer is a minister. Every member is encouraged to find their place of service and ministry. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of RiverTown. We are currently placing new volunteers in places of maximum influence through our children's ministries and multimedia/technology ministry.

To find out how you can serve in these or other areas at RiverTown, either behind the scenes or by investing in people, email (info@rivertown.com) or call the church office at (904) 464-0720. Be a part. Get involved. Give back. Volunteer!

Volunteer Opportunities
TINYTOWN
TinyTown volunteers serve in either the babies, preschoolers, and toddlers room on Sunday mornings. To serve in TinyTown you'll need to complete a background check.

KIDTOWN
KidTown volunteers serve with elementary aged children in either the large group and/or small group area. To serve in KidTown you'll need to complete a background check.

HOST TEAM
Host Team volunteers serve as the face of RiverTown. They shake hands, help park cars, and make people feel welcomed at RiverTown Church.

PRODUCTION
The production team serves as the driving force behind the Sunday worship service. If you like messing with computers, running sound, and/or lights this is for you.

SETUP TEAM
Setup Team plays a huge role in what happens on Sunday mornings. Setting up the Sunday environments ensures that people will come into a relevant environment. Every week the setup team turns an ordinary school into a dynamic portable church environment.

If you are interested in getting involved volunteering at RiverTown Church, please let us know by contacting Boyd at boyd@rivertown.com.

Next Steps

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Next Steps
Jesus

Jesus Christ is the first step on your faith journey. Placing your faith in Him as your Leader and Savior is the way to begin a relationship with God.

Baptism

Baptism is a public profession of your faith in Jesus Christ. It's "going public" with your commitment to be a Christ-follower. It's essentially telling the world that you believe in Jesus as your Leader and as your Savior. It’s the next step after your decision to follow Jesus Christ.

Membership

Committing yourself to be a member of RiverTown Church lets you know who we are, what we believe, where we’re going, and how you can be a part of it. It essentially means that you are a partner with us in our effort to share the love of God with our community and world. It also allows you to join the family of RiverTown, and to call RiverTown your spiritual home.

To fill out the Membership Application please click here.

Volunteer

Every single week, our volunteers give their time and skills to serve others. Greeting, ushering, serving kids, setting up, running lights — you'll fit in somewhere.

Life Groups

How do you stay connected to God and other people during the week when you aren’t at church? Life Groups are the best way to find community and friendship at RiverTown.

To find our more about how you can take your next step at RiverTown, contact our associate pastor Boyd Bettis at boyd@rivertown.com.

Contact Us

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Meeting Location:
Jacksonville Country Day School
10063 Baymeadows Rd.
Jacksonville, FL 32256

Mailing Address:
10920 Baymeadows Rd.
St. 27-213
Jacksonville, FL 32256

Phone:
904.464.0720

Email:
info@rivertown.com

Our Staff

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Dan Adams - Senior Pastor

Dan Adams is the founding and Senior Pastor at RiverTown Church. Born and raised in Jacksonville, He is a Sigma Chi, who married his college sweetheart Amber in June of 1995. Amber is a homemaker, pharmacist and the leader of the women’s ministry at RiverTown. Dan and Amber have two sons, and live in Jacksonville’s Southside.

The teaching style at RiverTown reflects Dan’s commitment to communicating God’s word expositionally with a gospel-driven and relevant focus. Believing that worship should be refreshing and relevant, his teaching strives to overcome the trappings of boring religion and empty ritual by leading people to experience a relationship with Jesus Christ. A relationship with Christ begins with and is all about grace, and that is something that permeates the teaching, worship and culture at RiverTown. The stories of God’s grace in the lives of the people at RiverTown are simply beautiful.

Dan is an alum of Samford University (B.S. in History, 1995), Beeson Divinity School (Master of Divinity, 1998), and Liberty University (M.B.A., 2009). He is wrapping up his Doctor of Ministry degree at Reformed Theological Seminary, and scheduled to graduate in the next year. Dan loves spending time with his wife and coaching his boys in baseball and football. He enjoys golf, or most any other sport in his free time. He loves to eat sushi, wings and of course barbecue (like all good Southern boys). The beach, Amelia Island and Disney are favorites for getting away with the family. His two nicknames are Danny and Wheels.

Dan blogs at danwadams.com. You can find him on twitter at twitter.com/danwadams. You can contact Dan by email at dan@rivertown.com.

Boyd Bettis - Associate Pastor
Boyd is married to his beautiful wife Brittany and has one son named Boyd Whittaker. Whittaker was born October 7th, 2009. Boyd absolutely adores his wife and new son. Boyd serves RiverTown as an Associate Pastor and will be sent out of RiverTown to plant a new church in the future. Boyd enjoys Apple computers, surfing, and sushi.

Boyd graduated of The Baptist College of Florida in 2007 and has a Bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies. He is in the process of completing his Masters of Divinity through Liberty University.

Web love: boydbettis.com, twitter.com/theboydbettis

You can email Boyd at boyd@rivertown.com.

Matt Bush - Families Pastor
Matt Bush has been married for 4 years to his beautiful wife Jessica, and he loves her very much. She is a huge help to him and is involved in every aspect of his ministry at RiverTown Church. Matt's responsibilities as Youth/Family Pastor involve ministering to kids from the time they begin Kindergarten all the way until they graduate High School. God has given Matt a passion to see kids come to know Christ, and to in turn, live for Him since He died for us.
Matt graduated from Georgia Tech in 2001 with a degree in Management (Go Jackets), and is currently working on a M. Div from New Orleans Baptist Seminary. Matt grew up in a town called LaGrange, GA (if you haveheard of it, let him know because not many people have) and has been in Jacksonville for about 6 years. Matt believes that God is doing some amazing things at this church and in this ministry, and considers it a blessing to worship God here.

You can contact Matt by email at matt@rivertown.com.

Our Beliefs

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What We Believe (A Snapshot)
God is bigger and better and closer than we can imagine.
The Bible is God's perfect guidebook for living.
Jesus is God showing Himself to us.
Through His Holy Spirit, God lives in and through Christ-followers now.
Nothing in creation "just happens." God made and controls it all for His glory.
Grace sets a relationship with God in motion. Salvation is by grace, not works.
Faith is the only way to begin and grow in our relationship with God.
We are saved by our sin through faith alone in Christ alone.
Heaven and hell are real places. Those who trust Christ enjoy God in heaven after death.
The church is to serve people like Jesus served people.
Jesus is coming again.
To get a more comprehensive view of our beliefs, please download the PDF "RiverTown Beliefs" from the sidebar.

RiverTown Beliefs (82.64 KB)

Our Story

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Our Story
Life change is the story of RiverTown. The stories of God’s grace in the lives of the people at RiverTown are simply beautiful. Starting with their family of four, Dan and Amber Adams stepped out in faith to create a church that would be different and distinct in its culture, context and expression. Over the last four years God has brought a great community and team together as He creates and shapes this young church called RiverTown.

Our future is to see Christ use us to build His church as we see the community of south Jacksonville transformed and the nations of the world touched by the influence of the Gospel. RiverTown is a church that exists to “Lead People to Enjoy God”. This will happen as by God’s grace we fulfill our call of preaching the Gospel, building community, loving people, serving others, engaging culture, and making disciples. RiverTown is grounded in the belief that a church should be filled with joy, driven by God’s purposes, forged by the Gospel, fueled by Christ’s grace, expressed in community and focused on God’s mission. RiverTown is a community of people who Jesus has saved and sent to live missional, other-focused, servant-oriented lives. RiverTown exists to see lives changed by the power of the Gospel for our beautiful and sovereign King.

Join us this Sunday, and you too can be part of the RiverTown Story.

Our Vision

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Our Vision
We will be a church that makes disciples by leading people to love God and love others. All this is made possible by faith in Jesus, our Savior King.

Our Purpose
Leading people to enjoy God through Jesus Christ

Our Values
God
He is our Holy Father. His Son is our Savior King. His Spirit is our Strong Helper.

The Bible
God's Word Guides us to Life Change through the Gospel.

The Gospel
Believing and Living the Gospel of Grace

Making Disciples
Building Lives that Honor God through Reaching Up, In & Out

Real Community
Doing Life and Mission Together

Missional Living
Sharing Christ Locally and Globally for the Glory of God

Pastor Danny Adams

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Dan Adams is the founding and Senior Pastor at RiverTown Church. Born and raised in Jacksonville, He is a Sigma Chi, who married his college sweetheart Amber in June of 1995. Amber is a homemaker, pharmacist and the leader of the women’s ministry at RiverTown. Dan and Amber have two sons, and live in Jacksonville’s Southside.

The teaching style at RiverTown reflects Dan’s commitment to communicating God’s word expositionally with a gospel-driven and relevant focus. Believing that worship should be refreshing and relevant, his teaching strives to overcome the trappings of boring religion and empty ritual by leading people to experience a relationship with Jesus Christ. A relationship with Christ begins with and is all about grace, and that is something that permeates the teaching, worship and culture at RiverTown. The stories of God’s grace in the lives of the people at RiverTown are simply beautiful.

Dan is an alum of Samford University (B.S. in History, 1995), Beeson Divinity School (Master of Divinity, 1998), and Liberty University (M.B.A., 2009). He is wrapping up his Doctor of Ministry degree at Reformed Theological Seminary, and scheduled to graduate in the next year. Dan loves spending time with his wife and coaching his boys in baseball and football. He enjoys golf, or most any other sport in his free time. He loves to eat sushi, wings and of course barbecue (like all good Southern boys). The beach, Amelia Island and Disney are favorites for getting away with the family. His two nicknames are Danny and Wheels.

Dan blogs at danwadams.com. You can find him on twitter at twitter.com/danwadams. You can contact Dan by email at dan@rivertown.com.

New Here?

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A Quick Glance at RiverTown
We’re RiverTown Church and we exist to lead people to enjoy God through Jesus Christ. The bottom-line reality of life is that God desires to maximize your joy and make possible your freedom. Join us this Sunday to discover the difference God can make in your life.

RiverTown Church began just over 4 years ago with 4 people. In that short period of time we’ve seen God change a whole lot of lives as people have encountered God and have changed by the good news of His grace. RiverTown’s purpose of leading people to enjoy God through Jesus Christ is more than just a slogan on piece of paper. It is the essence of what Christianity is all about, and is therefore the focus of all that happens at RiverTown. God is serious about our joy, and desires for each of us to discover true purpose and freedom in a relationship with Him. Pastor Dan Adams leads RiverTown Church with a strong vision and passion to see those far from God find freedom and life in Jesus Christ. Come join us this Sunday at 11:00 AM to discover how you too can see your life changed by God’s grace.

Home

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The Staff

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The Production Team

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The Setup Team

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