The River of Life began in 2007 as an outreach ministry of the  First United Methodist Church in Franklin, NC. Wayner Dickert and Andrew Jacobs held services each week in the "trip talk pavilion" at the Nantahala Outdoor Center.

In 2008 we continued to grow next to the river in the trip talk pavilion. 

In 2009 we moved into our new space on the porch of Slow Joe's Cafe which also overlooks the river. The picture on the home page shows our area for worship.

In 2010 Wayner was assigned as associate pastor at the Bryson City United Methodist Church and the River of Life joined forces with the Bryson City UMC. Over the past year these two vibrant and enthusiastic faith communities have continued to grow together.

In 2011 Wayner was appointed as the pastor of the Bryson City UMC and continues to serve the river community through the River of Life.

In 2012 we will continue to grow and serve the Nantahala River community through gatherings each Sunday during the summer. We plan on adding a weekly study at the Pourover Pub one night during the week. Stay tuned!

During its existence the River of Life has been very missionally focused with most of our funds collected going to provide water resources for those thirsting for hope. To date almost $20,000 has been given for these missions.