The story of Riverside Church begins with the birth of John Booko in downtown Chicago. Born to immigrant parents from the Middle East, John’s early years were filled with struggle and rebellion. Yet in the midst of poverty and chaos, his mother’s prayers planted seeds of faith that would one day grow into a legacy of transformation.

As a young man, John enlisted in the Navy and was given a small Gideon Bible. Far from home and surrounded by the vast ocean, John opened that Bible and cried out to God. In a moment of divine encounter, he prayed not just for salvation but also boldly asked, ‘God, use me.’ This marked the turning point in his life.

John married Burnell, his partner in love and ministry. Together, they would build a life devoted to faith, family, and the service of others.

John was ordained in the Baptist Church and began full-time ministry. He and Burnell raised their family in the ways of God, creating a spiritual heritage that would carry through generations.

The Booko family moved to Three Rivers, Michigan, where John pastored a Baptist church. But after receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, his passion for revival grew too strong for his denomination. He left the church, jobless but not hopeless, stepping out in faith once again.

With just 22 people and borrowed equipment, John and Burnell founded a new non-denominational church-Three Rivers Christian Fellowship. Their first service was held in the basement of a local bank, and Pastor John’s first sermon to the small gathering was titled, ‘Fear Not, Little Flock.’

Their son Paul, sensing a call to ministry, returned to Three Rivers with his wife Bonnie. Together they served faithfully-leading youth, worship, and everything in between. In 1978, Paul was officially ordained into ministry.

The church stepped out in bold faith to purchase 10 acres of an old asparagus field on 6th Avenue. It was here they built their very first permanent building, giving their growing congregation a place to call home.

Children’s and youth ministries began to thrive. Bonnie used her gifts in the arts to create compelling dramas and community events that drew people in. The church was becoming known for its passion to reach the lost in creative and heartfelt ways.

Recognizing the need for more space, the church expanded by adding additional classrooms and offices to serve the growing number of families and children.

The church debuted its first major production, ‘Antshillvania,’ featuring 80 cast members and drawing over 2,500 people. It marked the beginning of many large-scale theatrical events that would touch the community.

By now, over 30 ministries were thriving, led by committed volunteers. Riverside was a debt-free church with over 100 families, consistently seeing salvations and baptisms as lives were transformed.

God opened an unexpected door-the old Three Rivers High School building was offered for just one dollar. After much prayer and discernment, the church accepted the offer, believing God was calling them to be a light in the heart of the city.

After months of hard work and renovation, the first service was held in the gym of the new facility. The church was renamed Riverside Church, marking a new chapter of growth and outreach.

Riverside Health Clinic was launched under the leadership of Lucinda Kujacznski and Dr. Steve, providing  free medical and dental care to the uninsured in the community-a tangible expression of Christ’s love.

Celebrate Recovery began ministering to those dealing with hurts, habits, and hang-ups. The program expanded into the county jail, where lives were changed and baptisms took place behind bars.

The church launched initiatives like Serve Days, a diaper bank, mission trips, VBS, and River Lights of Wonder-bringing hope and joy to thousands. Every effort was rooted in the mission to love God, love people, and serve the world.

A dedicated Youth Center opened its doors, creating a space where students could gather, connect, and encounter Jesus in a real and personal way.

The church formed new partnerships with ministries like Hope United and Amanda’s House, continuing to serve the most vulnerable. Riverside remained a church for all generations, all backgrounds, and all stories.

As Riverside celebrates 50 years, they step into a new auditorium and a new season of ministry. Looking back on a journey marked by faith, sacrifice, and the undeniable presence of God, they press forward with the belief that the best is still to come.