Our Team
Our staff has thoughtfully laid out sessions to share experiences and lessons we have learned while in ministry. We want to help you adapt the strategies for success to help reach your communities.
Denny & Cheryl Curran
In 1993, Denny Curran sensed a clear call to central Minnesota. What began as a simple prayer meeting with six people soon became the foundation for River of Life in Cold Spring, MN. From those humble beginnings, the church has grown steadily and is now in its second generation of leadership,
with Kirby St. John serving as lead pastor.
Over the years, River of Life has helped plant multiple churches, expanding its mission to reach more people for Christ. Pastor Denny’s heart for the rural church and his creative approach to ministry have helped set a standard for effective, innovative rural outreach.
Denny and his wife, Cheryl, have four children and eight grandchildren,
making church planting and ministry a true family calling.
Founding Pastor - River of Life Church
Kirby & Desiree St. John
Kirby St. John served as a youth pastor for many years with a deep heart to see students’ lives transformed. After faithfully serving in the local church, he went on to serve as the Minnesota District Youth Director, where he inspired youth pastors and students across the state to live authentically for Christ.
Today, Kirby and Desiree serves as the lead pastor of River of Life Church. He continues to pursue the lost and raise up the next generation with authenticity, vision, and a passion to see lives transformed and communities impacted for Christ.
Kirby and Desiree have three children. Throughout the years ministry has always come from doing life with others and being authentic. Their children serve alongside them
supporting the ministry at ROL and around the world.
Lead Pastor - River of Life Church 
Discipleship Pastor & Executive AdminDillon & McKenzie Patterson
Dillon and McKenzie have served on staff for 10 years, leading students and adults to discover their talents and dreams. Together, they are passionate about helping people discover their God-given potential—whether in life or in ministry.
Dillon serves as the Discipleship Pastor, helping people grow deeper in their journey with Christ. He is also gifted in videography and creates impactful videos that support the ministries of River of Life. McKenzie serves as the Executive Administrator at River of Life while also assisting with Life Groups.
* Retreat Contact -
McKenzie Patterson
mckenzie@riveroflifeag.org
Worship & Creative Arts Pastor
Derrick & Ashley Benoit
Derrick & Ashley Benoit have served at River of Life Church for over 10 years leading the Creative Arts Department. The Benoit's have a heart and desire to train up young people to lead worship for the rural church and into a greater relationship with Jesus. They are driven by a desire to equip the rural church through discipleship, resources, and songwriting. Their pursuit of modern creative elements has transformed
River of Life to better reach young families.
Throughout the retreat you will have the chance to speak to many of our staff members and ask questions about their ministry. Our staff loves to pour into other churches and share be able to quip you to feel confident in your ministry.
