River of Life: A Year of Transition and Looking Ahead

2026 has been a year of transition for River of Life.

Last December, our pastor, Justin Gardner, shared with us that he was prayerfully considering resigning from the pastorate. I felt fairly certain that he would make that decision, and he asked me to step in during January and February while he sought the Lord’s direction.

During that time, the Gardner family faced an unexpected hardship when an electrical fire occurred in the parsonage, forcing them to relocate for much of Justin’s sabbatical. He returned to preaching in March, and I was subsequently asked to step back in to help lead River of Life once again—at the age of 85!

Over the past seven months, Mavis and I, along with David and Tami Gardner, have continued to provide leadership and ministry. During this season, several different church groups approached us about renting our building, having noticed that our congregation had become smaller. Through it all, we continued to pray and seek the Lord’s direction for the future of River of Life.

A few months ago, we were approached by New Fire Ministries, led by Pastor Scott Acklin. They shared that they believed River of Life could be the next step in fulfilling their church’s vision. We are grateful that New Fire Ministries shares a vision remarkably similar to our own.

Meanwhile, we faced a significant building expense. Our roof was approximately 50 years old and in need of replacement. Thankfully, we had been setting aside funds for many years in anticipation of such a need. The roofing project proved to be extensive, involving five different roofing systems and materials, as well as the removal of four old layers. The total cost was approximately $60,000.

To date, about 10% of that amount has been received through designated gifts. By drawing on emergency reserves, gifts, and operating funds, we were able to pay the entire cost of the project. While we are thankful that this major need has been met, it leaves us with minimal reserves for future building repairs and outreach opportunities.

Looking Ahead

Our plans for River of Life include inviting all our River friends to join us in strengthening and supporting New Fire Ministries in the months ahead. We also hope to continue sponsoring periodic weekend conferences, building on a ministry tradition that has blessed lives for the past 29 years.

In addition, I plan to continue ministering in other churches as opportunities arise, including occasional ministry travel. River of Life will also continue supporting other ministries, both at home and abroad, as the Lord provides.

We are especially thankful that New Fire Ministries, under Pastor Scott Acklin’s leadership, shares a vision so closely aligned with that of River of Life. Pastor Scott also has a strong ministry presence on YouTube, providing another avenue for sharing the message of the Kingdom of God.

As we move forward, we believe the Lord continues to have a purpose for River of Life. Although this season brings changes and new challenges, we remain committed to proclaiming the Kingdom of God and supporting the work He is doing in our nation and around the world.

Please continue to pray for us as we seek the Lord’s direction, embrace this new season, and remain faithful to the calling He has placed before us.

Thank you for your prayers, love, and continued support.

Ken Lawrence