Whether you were born and raised here or moved to the area in the 80s and 90s, Hamel’s Park was a staple for many of us during our childhood. If you missed this era, it’s truly saddening that you didn’t get to experience what the rest of us experienced growing up here. Hamel’s park was different. It wasn’t over commercialized, expensive, or overwhelming. It was simple and small, but man how the memories still dance around within us. Getting dropped off at the front gates of Hamel’s was an overwhelming feeling of excitement and freedom. Parents weren’t needed back in those days if you were old enough to handle yourself within the park. They would just pull up, kick you out of the car, and drive off (probably going on a date night themselves). The lights, the rides, the cool nights, the train, and maybe a date to hold hands with, were all part of the Hamel’s Park experience. I’d even go out on a limb and say it was one of the best experiences Shreveport/Bossier had to offer growing up.

Hamel’s Park closed in the late 90s, and after sitting idle without life for several years in the early 2000s, we could all see things slowly disappearing. Nature started taking over the park as if it was reaching up from the ground attempting to claim all the fun for itself. Traffic from Bossier City became heavier by way of Jimmy Davis Bridge, and before too long you didn’t even look to your right anymore while passing by the very site of so many childhood memories. Years passed by and the youthful thought of someone saving this amusement park vanished along with most of the rides. With the exception of the infamous log ride still visible for several more years after closing, you would find it hard to explain to others that Hamel’s Park even existed. It was no doubt, gone…….or was it?

As always there’s a plan. None of us could have possibly seen the plan for this once amusement park, to turn into a church, but God in all His glory was just sticking to His plan. Instead of the rides and entertainment calling in kids of all ages, God called in founders Mark and Laquita Briggs (senior pastors) to revive the property into a now thriving congregation, Riverpark Church. With a vision and passion from God to reach individuals and families, the park is once again a place for excitement and freedom. Marcus and Chelsea Briggs (lead pastors) bring a breath of fresh air to the church environment, they’re relatable, real, and raw with their lives and preaching. Flip flops or high heels, ties or tattoos, Marcus and the team at Riverpark will make you feel at home. The first time my family and I visited Riverpark back in November of 2022, the first words spoken to us were “Welcome to the park!”. As we made our way around the old ticket booth and through the gates, a sense of peace surrounded me. Maybe all the familiar buildings and walking paths took me back to a time of innocence and without fear. Although the memories helped, I found out soon enough that it was because the Holy Spirit had claimed this park and was without a doubt, moving in this place. As we made our way into the main worship center, several more people greeted us and introduced themselves. They were not overbearing but intentional enough that they made you feel welcomed (true Hamel’s Park style).

Finding a new church and settling in is a challenge for many people. Riverpark is different in that aspect. There’s an abundance of opportunity to dive in and create relationships, however at the same time there’s an opportunity to stay unknown and just be still in God’s presence. Aside from an amazing and energetic worship team, that will have you singing at the top of your lungs, the pastors present a true to the word, fun, and raw preaching style that everyone can relate to. The park also has a children’s ministry that is rapidly growing. In fact, the number of families attending Riverpark has directly impacted the number of services on Sunday, moving it from 2 services to 3.  It’s pretty amazing to think about the foundation that Hamel’s built decades ago is in itself, building foundations in countless families through Jesus Christ. Their moto is simple and effective – Love God, Love People, Make a Difference!

Just like a river, the church is ever changing within these gates. Riverpark continues to reach numerous people within and beyond our communities and overflowing its banks with love and fellowship. While a lot of the “legalism” of church is absent here, the sermons and teachings continue to be scripture based and not watered down. During and after service you might even ask yourself what denomination the church is, well I’m not sure there is one. Most would say “non-denominational” but I would say it’s more of a “multi-denominational”, there’s just too much going on to be nothing. Riverpark has absolutely changed how I view church, and it has been the birthplace of multiple relationships that go well beyond the gates of the park. Our family no longer comes down the hill of Jimmy Davis Bridge to the disappointment of an abandoned lot where rides used to reach for the sky. Rather, we come knowing that we have a home in a place where nobody expected God to move. There are no rides, or entertainment, or lights that can compare to the joy Riverpark has brought to myself and the community. If you’re looking for a church home, or just want to know more about who Jesus is, come on over and join us this Sunday. Services start at 9am.  I’d even go out on a limb and say it is one of the best experiences Shreveport/Bossier has to offer. So, what are you waiting for……..Welcome to the park!