Our History

Bethany’s history began in 1877 as a Sunday School Class that was held at Richwoods School House. In 1880, it was officially recognized as a Baptist Sunday School and was adopted by the First Baptist Church as its mission. By 1881, the interest and attendance had increased to the extent that larger quarters were necessary. First Baptist Church secured a piece of land on North Jefferson Avenue and the Chapel was built in 1882. In April of 1891, members felt that it was time to organize Bethany Baptist Mission into a regular Baptist Church. Bethany Baptist Church was officially filed in the state of Illinois, Peoria County, on December 29, 1891 stating that it was duly organized as a church on May 10, 1891.

The lot at North Jefferson was sold and the Mission building was moved to the 1800 block of North Madison. Although the 1920’s and 1930’s were difficult years for the nation and the growth of the church due to the Great Depression, Bethany was affiliated with the Northern Baptist Convention and the Peoria Baptist Association. The 1940’s were the beginning of change for Bethany. Its missionary emphasis was coupled with a strong evangelistic approach. It was in 1943 that the Bethany Baptist Broadcaster was born and sent to the boys in the service. By 1944, the church had a total of seven missionaries. The Men’s Fellowship and Fisherman’s group were active in meeting for prayer, socials and handing out tracts.

It was in 1948 when Bethany Baptist Church withdrew from the Northern Baptist Convention and joined the Conservative Baptist Association of America. Plans were in progress to build a new church on North Perry and it was completed and dedicated on February 1, 1953. In the following years, a Pastor’s membership class was established. The Fellowship Fund was established to help any members who were in need of financial assistance. Pioneer Girls and Christian Service Brigade were started in 1959.

In August of 1961, there were 330 children enrolled in Vacation Bible School. The growth of the church continued and space for Sunday School rooms was greatly needed. By December of 1962, the possibility of adding to the present structure was being considered. In May of 1964, Bethany won the Conservative Baptist Association area contest with an average of 522 in Sunday School. On November 29, 1967, the congregation voted to buy the property which would become 7229 North Knoxville and the new home of Bethany Baptist Church. The 1970’s continued to be a period of growth for Bethany Baptist Church. There was a time of much prayer seeking the Lord’s will and guidance for decisions to be made. There was a “round-the-clock” prayer chain and home prayer meetings were held each week in addition to the Sunday evening prayer services. The decision was made to build on the Knoxville property and on August 1, 1976, the congregation occupied the new building. On October 16, 1976, the new Seville organ was dedicated. On November 14, 1976, the church was completely dedicated to the Lord for His glory and service.

During the 1980’s and 1990’s, the church continued to grow and, in the late 1990’s the decision was made to expand the building to better serve the needs of the growing Sunday School classes. Since the church has continued to grow exponentially in the last 10 years, and due to a severe parking problem on Sunday mornings, (even with three services), the decision was made in 2004 to purchase property on Heinz Lane. Currently, construction people are viewing the site and will be presenting the building plan to the congregation by the summer of 2005.

Adapted from: The Centennial History of Bethany Baptist Church, Peoria, Illinois, 1881-1991 by Charlotte Wallen.