RIVER OF LIFE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 

Dr. Pastor Cindy Christovale, co-founder of River of Life Christian Fellowship in Oakland, California, has dedicated over 45 years to ministry and 33 years to pastoral leadership alongside her husband, Dr. Pastor Chris Christovale. Their mission is “Reaching Our Community and World with the Demonstrated Power of God’s Love.”

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A former professional model and educator, Dr. Cindy appeared in Ebony and Essence magazines, danced on “Soul Train” and “American Bandstand,” and was part of the first American Music Awards in 1974. She later devoted her life to education, workforce development, and community outreach, helping over 50,000 individuals overcome barriers to employment and self-sufficie

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Although Dr. Cindy began teaching and working in education in the late 1960s, in 1984 she joined a local vocational school, where she served as an instructor and was later promoted to Administrator/Vice Principal. Although retired from administration, she continues to serve as a Direct Support Professional Trainer/Proctor, helping train caregivers to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while promoting their health, safety, and quality of Life. 

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Dr. Cindy earned her Master’s Degree and Doctor of Ministry from Friends International Christian University in 2001. She is an ordained minister, conference speaker, educator, and founder of Your Real Beauty Women’s Ministry and Life Development Corporation. She is also the author of Your Real Beauty and The Beauty Became the Beast. Cindy and Chris have been married since 1974 and are blessed with two children, six grandchildren, and one great-grand child.