ABOUT STEPHEN A. GARNER

“Prayer is not something we do, it’s a position we occupy.” 

Words spoken and modeled in the life of Stephen A. Garner, an apostle of God and lifelong student who purposes to exalt Jesus Christ in everything he does. Anointed to preach strong revelatory Kingdom messages to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, Apostle Garner labors to impart present truths that bring reformation and restoration. With a great passion to see the Body of Christ activated in fervent prayer, and powerfully operating in the gifts of the Holy Spirit and fulfilling their calling and destiny, he works to see the power of God manifested in the lives of many.

As the lead pastor of the Rivers network of congregations, a part of Apostle Garner’s purpose is to also educate the believer. He does so through a series of workshops and conferences under Fire on the Altar (FOTA). FOTA has become known as a global fortress for the intercessor, true worshipper, and the hungry believer to be refreshed, restored, and recharged. 

With a desire to bring healing to the family unit and the awareness of the power of covenant, Apostle Garner develops innovative ways to engage the culture. His heart’s desire is to restore and develop families and the community. He accomplishes this goal through the Shamar Group – an outreach and community development organization under Rivers Chicago. 

In addition to overseeing a growing network of congregations – Rivers of Living Water Ministries – Apostle Garner always makes time to develop future pioneers and leaders. From discipling the upcoming generations to founding Global Strategic Alliance  (GSA), Apostle Garner demonstrates his God ordained commitment to impart into others.

GSA was founded to equip believers to reign in the earth and empower leaders  for the advancement of His Kingdom. GSA has four core principles which help to affirm current leaders and develop those emerging in sacred and secular initiatives. GSA has 6 bi-monthly online sessions and several live gatherings that take place across the US and annually in South Africa. 

While Apostle Garner also flows in a strong prophetic dimension that accompanies his apostolic ministry, and desires to see God’s people free from demonic bondages, he also frequently hosts ministry intensives on intercession, deliverance, healing, apostolic and prophetic ministry. 

In addition to leading a network of churches (GSA), and other pioneering ministries, Apostle Garner has authored over 45 books. He also leads a social media program, Inspired Intercession – a live prayer broadcast. He and his wife Prophet Yolonda Garner reside in the Chicago area, they have 5 children and 3 beautiful grandchildren.