about
The River
our vision
For the earth will be filled With the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, As the waters cover the sea.
Habakkuk 2:14
We desire to be a church in the Netherlands where people feel at home and grow together in faith. A place where lives are transformed, faith becomes practical, and people are built up to live the way God intended.
Our focus is on building a strong, close-knit community. We believe in walking together, truly knowing one another, and helping each other grow—by seeking God together, learning from one another, and sharing life. From this foundation, we see believers grow stronger and leaders arise who stand firm in their faith and take responsibility in their environment. This is what God is doing in the Netherlands. And we believe this is only the beginning.
our mission
& vision
The vision of The River is to see this nation flooded with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.
This vision is founded on three pillars: Reaching the Lost, Reviving the Church and Raising up Leaders.
Reaching
the Lost
Many people live without God and do not know His love and truth. We believe that everyone needs the Good News and deserves the opportunity to come to know God. The gospel has the power to transform lives and to reconcile people to God. Therefore, we embrace our responsibility to share the gospel by equipping and mobilizing believers to proclaim the Good News. In this way, we witness God drawing people to Himself and making His work visible.
Revive
the Church
We long to be a church where people not only learn about God, but truly encounter Him. A place where restoration takes place in lives, marriages, and relationships, and where faith is reignited. Through the Word of God and the powerful work of the Holy Spirit, we make room for renewal and spiritual growth. In our services, we see people being built up, renewed, and equipped to live steadfast in their faith.
Raising up
Leaders
There are many people who desperately need God and the hope found in Him. We believe that strong, faithful leadership is essential in reaching them effectively and making a lasting impact. That is why we are committed to raising up leaders who are spiritually grounded, equipped, and ready to take their place. We invest in developing men and women of character, vision, and courage—leaders who will serve with integrity and influence their generation for Christ.
our core values
RIVER
leadership
Ben and Jacky Kroeske have been married for fifteen years and live with their two children in a small town in the Netherlands. They serve as the Senior Pastors of River Church Netherlands. Together with a strong and dedicated team, they lead River Church Netherlands, River Schools, and River Ministries, all flowing from one vision: to see spiritual renewal in the Netherlands and Europe.
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RIVER
homegroups
Our Home Groups are a great way to make connections and build relationships and get to know God better together. We have multiple groups and locations.
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