The Grove Community Church — Attraction in Riverside

The first time I attended this church Christmas 2018. In 2020 I started attending the men’s Bible study along with a few other classes that were offered. I felt I had been building great relationships with pastors and with the “brothers” in the mens Bible study. I came to a realization this church seems to look down on those who have divorced or at least this how I felt I was treated. One pastor whom I won’t give a name at this time but can traded phone numbers with me, said he wanted to get to know me better. Said he would call me but every time I ran into him in person it was one excuse after another. I asked the “brothers” at the mens Bible to study to share my number with another pastor, I wanted to ask him a question. I never heard back from that pastor. I stepped away from the “brothers” at mens Bible study and not one person has bothered to check in with me. I know phones work both ways but I was curious who truly cared. I quit attending in October 2022. I don’t trust easily and I felt I could trust individuals at this church. Once I shared a little bit of who I am I felt ostracized. I remember a sermon on divorce last year and the pastor made it seem as if a divorced individual is less than someone who is not divorced. I understand it is frowned upon and not liked by our Lord, but situations dictate. After speaking with others that I met that have walked away from this church I know I’m not the only one to feel unwelcome due to a sin. The judgement, the promises, and lack of care from the individuals is why I walked away from this church. If you decide to attend and be active with this church be very wary who you open up to about your personal life. You will be judged.

Also, I found most of the individuals who work with the children in the Sunday school setting are amazing. Due to this and the love my children had for the children’s study was hard for us to walk away to find...

I previously posted a review but removed it due to the sensitive nature of the domestic violence involved. However, I feel it’s important to speak out. I reached out to this church seeking counseling, ministry, or simply to be heard. Unfortunately, I was dismissed. Meanwhile, my ex—who has avoided service of court documents and refuses to comply with legal orders—attends this church regularly on Saturdays and Wednesdays.

He continues to threaten me while avoiding accountability as a father. I called the church twice and left messages regarding this dangerous situation, but no one responded. Most recently, he showed up at my apartment complex with flowers, seemingly coached on how to manipulate the situation, but he still refuses to turn himself in or comply with the court.

It is heartbreaking and frustrating to be ignored by a place that should offer spiritual and emotional support—especially in such serious circumstances. I hope this message reaches someone who can listen and act with care and integrity.

IN RESPONSE: I’ve called multiple times and never got a call back. The number and extension you gave are the same ones I already tried—no response. My husband and I both reached out—he wanting to reconcile, me trying to finalize our divorce and find peace for our kids. We weren’t offered counseling, mediation, or even a real response. Not everyone fits the perfect churchgoer image—some of us are still sinners trying to become saints. I don’t want a polished “we care” message. I want real attention, and we...

The Grove Community Church has been my home Church since 2007. I have never had a reason to leave or search for another home Church. I thank God and praise Him for their heart posture and consistency throughout the years. Congratulations to The Grove, fellow Grovites, the Board, the members, Pastoral and leadership team for celebrating this year our 100-year Anniversary! Remarkable and glory be to God. Collectively an honorable, kind, loving, respectable, generous Church, group of people that puts God first. Teachings based on biblical truth. I have been continuously, faithfully led and encouraged to grow. Making Him known is a priority; our core message being changed by Father God to reach all people. A true well rounded sincere body of believers standing firm in the faith being smarter and stronger together!! Please be encouraged, you are invited and welcome to join us!! :) 1 Corinthians 16:13,...