RiverALIVE is deeply rooted in Gainesville and surrounded communities. The church was birthed out of revival in 1955 by John and Alice Houghton. Shortly after coming to the Lord John Houghton began preaching on the courthouse square of Gainesville, TX. It wasn’t long until he rented a pasture at the end of Grand Avenue where he strung up some lights and rickety benches, added his own record player, and with the support of friends, an old-fashioned outdoor revival was in full swing. It was this revival that brought many to Christ and a congregation was soon established.

Reba Fay Perry and her husband Ben were some of John’s earliest converts which later lead to the conversion of the entire Perry family. Due to the amazing turnaround of the Perry family, they turned their dance hall business into our congregation's first official sanctuary. In 1959 the opportunity came to purchase lots on E. Broadway and it’s here that our first church building was built where John and Alice Houghton pastored for nearly 25 years. Alice passed away in 1977 and John in 1989.John “Papa” Houghton’s funeral was held in the beloved church building that his own hands had helped build. His funeral service ended by quoting the closing words he ended every church service with: “Show love one to another
until we meet again.”

Today, we’re still located at East Broadway in Gainesville, TX and are pastored by Arthur and Johnna Perry Green who have faithfully kept the mandate of love alive and continue to be a beacon of hope to our community. More than 20 years ago Arthur Green was raised up from among the very congregation he now serves. Twice it was prophesied that he would one day shepherd this particular flock of the Lord. “Make no mistake about it. You will pastor this church.” the Spirit said. These prophecies eventually came to pass in 1994 when Arthur Green was appointed as the church's Pastor. God has given Pastor Green a true shepherd's heart to lead and protect His people with a genuine love and desire to see them grow into all He has called them to be.

RiverALIVE is not a “new” church thing. This is church as generations past have faithfully passed the torch to generations present. Come join us and passionately worship Jesus and find your place in the Body of Christ. Revealing your identity in Christ, finding your purpose, and discovering your God-given gifts for the ministry is the heartbeat of RiverALIVE at the Church of Jesus Christ. It’s what we do and we’re excited for you to be a part of it. Welcome.