Jesus - Revival - Souls
Pastors Dale and Lucy Van Volkenburg have been in ministry for over 30 years and have been to over 30 nations. They traveled to many cities across America and the world assisting Dr. Howard-Browne in revival meetings and gospel crusades. At the River at Tampa Bay, they ran the youth department and later became associate pastors and the deans of the River Bible Institute. Now River University.
During their 10 years of serving under Drs. Rodney and Adonica Howard-Browne, they stepped out and released what was imparted into them by moving to East London, South Africa. It was there where they established their very first Bible college. Over the next 10 years they successfully established 5 fully accredited international Bible Colleges in the nations of South Africa, England, and France. Dale and Lucy have seen many souls saved and much fruit in the lives of their students – many of which have launched into the full-time ministry.
In 2019 the Lord sent Pastors Dale and Lucy to Northwest Arkansas to plant a brand new work. It was in May of 2020, shortly after COVID 19 was declared a pandemic and when many churches were closing their doors, The River Church NWA officially OPENED its doors. In October of 2022 they purchased their own property and the church has been thriving ever since.
After four years of pouring their lives into establishing the church, Pastors Dale and Lucy felt the release to establish the church’s own accredited Bible college called “River Ministry Training Institute” for the purpose of raising and equipping revivalists for the 21st century.
Pastors Cesar and Ana Gutierrez are passionate about sharing God’s love and seeing lives transformed. Originally from Mexico and Peru, they encountered the power of the Holy Spirit early in their ministry, experiencing healing and restoration that shaped their calling.
In 2020, God led them to Northwest Arkansas, where they connected with The River Church NWA and immediately knew they were called to be part of the revival happening here. Today, they serve as Care Pastors with a heart to help people walk in God’s love, truth, and freedom – carrying the message of the Gospel into everyday life and pointing people to the hope found only in Jesus. They are dedicated to building relationships that reflect Christ’s heart and to equipping others to do the same.
Pastors Steve and Judie Nowlan have been faithfully serving the Lord for over 35 years. Married with three children, they followed God’s leading from Alabama to Northwest Arkansas in 2004 after Steve’s retirement from the U.S. Army.
In 2019, they connected with Pastors Dale and Lucy Van Volkenburg and soon became part of the work God was beginning at The River Church NWA. Graduates of River Ministry Training Institute, they now serve as Care Pastors with a deep desire to bring heaven to earth, be the hands and feet of Jesus, and see lives transformed both now and for eternity as they shepherd and support the body of Christ. Their lives reflect a steadfast commitment to God’s Word and a passion to see others grow strong in their faith.
Ryan and Amoret share a deep passion for revival and for seeing the next generation encounter the power of God in a real and life-changing way. Originally from Hawaii and Missouri, they met in Branson, and have now been married for 13 years. Together, they homeschool their 3 children and run multiple businesses, all while pouring their hearts into raising up and discipling young adults. Their family was drawn to The River Church NWA because of its unashamed pursuit of the gospel, unwavering focus on the Holy Spirit, and mission to impact the community with the power of God.
For more than a decade, Ryan and Amoret have walked alongside young adults in all seasons of life, creating space for authentic encounters with Jesus and helping them step into their God-given callings. They believe that God has always used young people to ignite revival and shape culture, and that this generation is no different. Their heart is to see young adults discover their identity in Christ, be equipped by the Holy Spirit, and rise up as leaders who influence families, workplaces, universities, and cities for the Kingdom.
Their vision is to see Northwest Arkansas overcome by a spirit of revival and for young adults to lead that charge – through discipleship, worship, evangelism, and bold faith lived out in everyday life. To Ryan and Amoret, ministry is more than preaching; it’s about building meaningful relationships, creating community, and equipping young adults to be world changers. Their heart is to see a generation set ablaze with passion for Jesus, living fully surrendered lives and boldly advancing the Kingdom of God wherever they go.
Originally from Northern California, Eric and Candice followed the Lord’s leading to Northwest Arkansas in 2021, knowing The River Church NWA was where God was calling them to plant roots and serve. With over seven years of ministry experience, they have devoted their lives to seeing the next generation encounter God’s presence in a real and powerful way. They are blessed with three wonderful children and one precious grandchild, who continually remind them of the importance of investing in the next generation and building a lasting spiritual legacy.
Their heart is to create an atmosphere where children and youth don’t just learn about God but know Him personally – walking in His presence, hearing His voice, and discovering their true identity and purpose in Christ. They believe this generation is being raised up as future revivalists, filled with the fire of the Holy Spirit and equipped to carry the glory of God into their schools, homes, and communities.
In ministry, they focus on building strong spiritual foundations through the Word, prayer, and worship, helping kids develop an unshakable faith that will sustain them throughout their lives. Their desire is to partner with families, empower parents, and create a community where children grow in character, confidence, and boldness for Christ.
It is their greatest joy to watch young people fall deeply in love with Jesus and rise up as leaders who will transform culture and advance the Kingdom of God. Eric and Candice believe the next generation isn’t just the future of the Church, but they are a vital part of what God is doing right now.
