When The River Church first opened its doors in Marion, Indiana, just 120 people gathered to worship. Leadership knew that securing a loan for a church that small would be difficult—if not impossible. But being part of The Wesleyan Church and having partnered with WIF before, their lead pastor knew where to turn. WIF believed in The River’s vision and made it possible for them to purchase and expand their facilities. What followed was nothing short of miraculous: attendance grew from 120 to more than 2,400 people, and the church’s reach throughout their community multiplied beyond measure.
The River has become a beacon of hope in Marion—one of the most economically challenged areas in the state and home to Indiana’s second-highest poverty rate. Its mission is simple yet bold: to care for “the least of these”—those who are poor spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
Every year, The River hosts grocery giveaways, providing meals and household items to over 6,000 people and feeding 2,000 families in need. Their partnership with Convoy of Hope makes this possible. For the church, every act of service echoes their message: “You’re a big deal to us, because you’re a big deal to God.
“Thank you for making that investment,” Matthew Trexler, Lead Pastor shared. “That means the world to me as a local pastor. It’s the best investment you can make—you’re funding the light.“Because of WIF’s partnership, The River Church continues to flow strong—bringing life, hope, and the love of Jesus to a city that needs it most.