Pastors
Pastor Joel Hitchcock was called to the ministry at a very young age. At age 8 he made the decision that he would become a preacher when he grew up and he began to preach at age 12. He completed his theological training at the Berea Theological College and at the University of South Africa, and was awarded a doctorate in divinity in from the School of Bible Theology Seminary and University, in recognition of his efforts in world evangelism. He also completed his doctorate degree in theology from Trinity Graduate School of Apologetics and Theology.
Joel traveled as an evangelist for more than 20 years in
about 45 countries since he entered the full time, credentialed ministry in
1990. He has authored several blogs and books, including Christ in You.
Joel preaches strong Christ-centered messages and operates
extensively in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Many people have testified of
divine healing through Joel's ministry.
Pastor Joel & Heidi started River City Church in
2013.
Joel Hitchcock emphasizes preaching the Word, intimacy with
God; excellence in music, praise & worship; supernatural ministry; strong
marriages & families; and international & local evangelism.
Pastor Heidi Hitchcock first studied at Bob
Jones University in Greenville SC and then at Liberty University in Lynchburg
VA, where she received her degree in television communications and broadcast
journalism. She worked for a while at LeSea Broadcasting in Hawaii.
She also received an Associate of Ministry degree at the Christian World
College of Theology in Salisbury MD.
Joel and Heidi became pen pals in 1991. After more
than three years they met each other for the first time, and were married in
1995. They have four children - Anthony, Rebekah, Timothy and Trey.
Heidi has supported her husband Joel as they held revival and evangelistic meetings all over the USA and the world. Heidi has ministered to just a few souls under a tree in Africa and to multitudes in crusades in Africa, India and South America.