Church Highlight: Riverland Church – Summerville, South Carolina

Riverland Church in Summerville, South Carolina, began with a clear purpose: to move “everyone, every day, closer to Jesus.” With weekend services held at 9 AM and 11 AM, the church aims to create a life-giving environment where the message of Christ is shared through relevant teaching, worship, and genuine community participation. Over time, Riverland has grown into a vibrant, multi-ethnic congregation that emphasizes small groups, prayer gatherings, outreach efforts, and family ministries, embodying their belief that faith is lived out beyond Sunday mornings.

Riverland’s mission has remained focused on four key objectives: sharing Jesus’s message, connecting people in heart-led relationships, helping individuals discover purpose, and equipping leaders to make a lasting impact. The church emphasizes that whether someone is exploring faith for the first time or looking to deepen their spiritual journey, Riverland offers pathways to grow—through engaging worship, Bible study, and compassionate care. The inclusive, welcoming tone on their website underlines their commitment to diverse background and genuine belonging.

Lead Pastor Chris Russo, who stepped into the role in 2022, is known for his “big heart, thoughtful teaching, and plenty of laughs.” He leads alongside his wife Abbi and their three energetic boys, often sharing about family life, golf swings, coffee, and community adventures. Chris first encountered Christ as a freshman at the College of Charleston—where he also earned a degree—and spent 18 years at Seacoast Church in Charleston, serving in various ministries and leading two campuses. He later completed both an M.A. in Religion and a Master of Divinity from Liberty University.

Pastor Chris is passionate about practical, life-relevant messages—a thread you’ll often hear in his sermons and social media, where he addresses real-world themes like growth, resilience, and everyday faith. Under his leadership, Riverland continues to expand in community engagement, emphasizing Sundays, small groups, prayer, and outreach—all while nurturing an environment that is both family-focused and mission-driven.

Riverland Church stands out in Summerville as a contemporary, Christ-centered community. Driven by a mission to bring everyone closer to Jesus daily, they combine authentic relationships, purposeful growth opportunities, and service. Lead Pastor Chris Russo brings an engaging, pastoral leadership style rooted in strong biblical teaching and relational connection. With solid educational and ministry experience, he guides Riverland into deeper impact—helping individuals discover faith, purpose, and lasting transformation.

Please join us this week as we celebrate and lift up our friends at Riverland Church in prayer! We are excited about all God is doing and will continue to do in and through them!