The River Church

Can a church be both a sanctuary and a stage for controversy? The River Church in Tampa, pastored by Rodney Howard-Browne, embodies this duality. The River Church, established in 1996 by Howard-Browne, has been a hub for Pentecostal revival meetings. These meetings are known for their displays of “holy laughter,” speaking in tongues, and other charismatic phenomena. Howard-Browne, sometimes referred to as the “holy ghost bartender,” has cultivated a diverse congregation at The River Church in Tampa. His services are known for their energy and the financial assistance often provided to members in need. However, this vibrant community has also been the backdrop for several controversies. The River Church in Tampa made headlines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Howard-Browne defied public health orders, holding packed services and dismissing the virus as a “phantom plague.” This led to his arrest in March 2020 on charges of unlawful assembly and violating public health emergency rules. He later closed the church temporarily, citing concerns for his congregation’s safety amidst what he called “government tyranny.” The charges were eventually dropped. Howard-Browne’s statements and actions at The River Church haven’t been limited to the pandemic. He has sparked controversy by claiming to have a doctorate from an unaccredited institution. He also promoted multi-level marketing companies facing allegations of pyramid scheming. He has spoken of a plot to attack Donald Trump and has made claims about human sacrifice in Hollywood. The River Church in Tampa is a testament to the complex intersection of faith, community, and controversy in modern America.