Wow. Where do I begin? It is hard to find words to describe what River of Life means to me. As I sit here thinking about all the years gone by, it is hard for me to remember a summer when I didn't attend ROL. It seems as though I have been going forever! I have met so many wonderful people over the years - counsellors, students and the numerous Lincoln county residents that I have been so blessed to serve.

I would have to say that one of the most memorable years was this past summer, ROL 2008. We roofed a house off HWY378. On the last day, we held communion with the family that lived in the house. We broke bread, drank juice, and read scripture to them. After communion was finished, we washed their feet-right there in the front yard! This was a truly humbling experience for the entire team!

Of course, none of this would be possible without the numerous people who, throughout the years, have organized and led ROL. As I have aged and become more involved with counselling and being a team leader, I have truly realized the amount of planning and preparation that goes into ROL. Chuck and Leigh Beggs give countless hours throughout the year to prepare for ROL, and I know they hold a special place in the hearts of many, many people who are involved. I feel blessed to know them and I am honored to call them my friends!

Finally, I would like to say to anyone considering attending ROL, "DO IT!" Yes, it is hard work, but you will not be sorry. I promise that you will be blessed and will meet friends that you will never forget!

-Billy Roberts 1/14/2009

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River of Life: The beginnings of my servanthood.

In the summer of 2001, at the age of eleven, I went on my first River of Life mission trip in Lincolnton, Georgia. It was a turning point in my life. I began to learn what servanthood was: "faith expressing itself through love" (Galatians 5:6). Every summer since, I have attended this mission trip, hoping to encounter the Lord in a new way each time... and I have. Through this ministry, God showed me what it means to be a true servant. He showed me His heart... and eventually He began to add many things to me. If it weren't for River of Life, I wouldn't have an awesome college roommate, a great Christian family to rely on, or the heart to go out of my way to serve others. The mission work I have done at River of Life over the years is so incredibly life-changing and it has laid down the foundation of my Christian life - to love others just as He has loved us. Thank God for this awesome ministry!!

-Emily Roberts

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Why I Love ROL...
I love River of life because it is an amazing experience where your eyes are opened to the amount of people who could really use some help. It is also a fun time with your friends, to make new friends, and the worship is especially great. Working together as christians to help others and grow in faith is the simplest and main reason I love it.

-Kristen Busby