23 Churches in ILLINOIS (Rejuvenating & Captivating)
Illinois has different historic and beautifully-designed churches that reflect the state’s Christian heritage.
From quaint chapels to towering cathedrals, the artistry and architecture of these buildings are a testament to the devotion and faith of those who built them.
Each building tells a unique story, from immigrants who came with their traditions to natives who built indigenous congregations.
With a predominantly Christain community, the Land of Presidents has many churches for you to choose from.
As a result, it may be difficult for you to decide where you want to worship.
This article explores some of the different churches in the Prairie State Area to help you make a decision.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best National Parks in Illinois.
Churches in Champaign, Illinois
1. First United Methodist Church of Champaign (Transformative Christian Community)
The First United Methodist Church of Champaign is a Christian community committed to making disciples of Jesus Christ to transform the world.
They focus on connecting people with God and one another, growing members as disciples of Jesus Christ, and serving others.
The Church prides itself on its foundational principle of practical divinity and continues to uphold it.
Popular for its vibrant worship services, the Church offers in-person and online Sunday worship to help accommodate as many people as possible.
Also, interested members can access the 10:30 am service later in the day via a Dropbox link posted on Sunday Afternoon.
Since its creation in 1860, the First United Methodist Church of Champaign has a deeply rich past, including its commitment to social justice and community outreach.
So, if you want a church that focuses on giving back to the community, the First United Methodist Church of Champaign is a good fit for you.
Address: 210 W. Church, Champaign, IL.
2. First Christian Church of Champaign (Diverse Christian Community)
The First Christian Church is a flourishing community of Christians committed to the teachings of Christ and implementing these teachings through actions in the community.
As a result of the diverse congregation, the Church has a large membership attracting around 2,000 worshippers each week.
The Church emphasizes helping as many people as possible experience the true freedom that comes from hope in Jesus, fostering love and support among members.
New members can also use the connect card to learn more about the Church and discuss their spirituality with a particular person to help them grow in the faith.
In addition to Sunday service, the Church also organizes various activities during the week.
Members can also join different faith groups to help foster community spirit.
Children are also not left out, with specific programs designed for kids and students.
First Christian Church of Champaign has 2 locations making it easy for you to choose the most convenient place of worship.
Address: 300 S Broadway Ave, Urbana, IL, and 3601 S. Staley Rd., Champaign, IL
3. The Chapel of St. John the Divine Episcopal (Liturgical & Sacramental Church)
The Chapel of St. John the Divine Episcopal is a liturgical and sacramental church with worship at the heart of all its activities.
Located at the University of Illinois, this Parish thrives off the University environment’s inclusive nature, attracting various indigenous and international worshippers.
With a diverse community comprising believers from different denominational backgrounds, the Church prides itself as an accepting and welcoming community unified through its diverse perspectives on the Bible, liturgy, and ongoing issues worldwide.
The Chapel of St. John the Divine Episcopal upholds the traditional Anglican practice of holding tradition, Scripture, and reason as the cornerstone of their life and faith.
Sunday services are at 8 am and 10 am.
You can also attend Christian Education after the 10 am service and the weekday service on Wednesday at 5:15 pm.
Address: 1011 South Wright Street, Champaign, IL.
4. Faith Baptist Church of Champaign (Baptist Beliefs Emphasized)
The Faith Baptist Church of Champaign is a Christian Community that embodies the Baptist beliefs.
Sunday service at the Faith Baptist Church of Champaign is divided into two.
First, there is Sunday School at 9:30 am.
Then, service starts an hour later, at 10:30 am.
You can also choose to attend the evening service at 6:00 pm.
The Church also has midweek services on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm.
In addition, you can find daily meditation messages and Bible passages on the Church’s website.
You can also download the church app to keep up with recent events.
The Church also has a youtube channel where you can listen to sermons in your free time.
If you’re looking for a dedicated Christian community to help grow your faith, the Faith Baptist Church of Champaign may be the right place.
Address: 4601 N. Market Champaign, IL.
Also see our article on State Parks in Illinois.
Churches in Springfield, Illinois
1. Destiny Church (Non-Denominational Christian Community)
Armed with the Scripture and the four words – Live, connect, grow, and go, as its vision, the Destiny Church is a group of seekers, doubters, and believers dedicated to following Jesus in the best way they can.
Despite their differences, the congregation of this Church chooses to focus on what unites them.
Members of this Church are known as Evangelical Christians.
With their beliefs rooted in the Apostle’s Creed and the core principles of the Protestant Reformation, the Church strives to be real and relevant and to walk together with members to help you strive towards being like Jesus.
If you’re looking for a non-denominational Christian community, the Destiny Church might be a good fit.
With an FAQ page on the website to guide new members, you’ll find it easy to settle within this community.
Address: 1425 N. 6th St Springfield, IL
2. Calvary Church (Worship at Multiple Locations)
Every believer understands the importance of Calvary to the Christian Faith.
To the congregation in this Church, Calvary is more than a name.
It embodies the ultimate sacrifice of Christ and forms the foundation for the Church.
The Church has three services at different locations on Sunday at 9:00 am, 9:30 am, and 10:45 am.
The 9:00 am and 10:45 am services hold at the Hazel Dell Campus, while the 9:30 am service holds at the Jefferson Street Campus.
In addition, the 9:00 am and 10:45 am services feature contemporary worship and Christian music, while the 9:30 am service includes an acoustic, blended worship style.
You can also attend the one-hour weekday Prayer services on Monday and Wednesday at 5:30 pm.
Congregation members can stream the 9:00 am and 10:45 am services on Sunday and the Monday service at 5:30 pm.
You can also access an archive of past services on the Church’s website.
Address: 1730 W Jefferson St, Springfield, IL, and 501 Hazel Dell Rd, Springfield, IL.
3. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (Daily Masses & Confessions)
Are you a catholic in Springfield or looking to convert to Catholicism?
If yes, you should check out the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
The Cathedral is the seat of the Catholic Diocese of Springfield.
Built in 1927 and dedicated in 1928, the Cathedral is the second building in Springfield consecrated to the Immaculate Conception.
The Cathedral offers mass every day of the week at different times.
Sunday masses are by 7:00 am, 10:00 am, and 5:00 pm, while weekday masses (Monday – Friday) are celebrated at 7:00 am and 5:15 pm.
Additionally, you can attend the Saturday morning mass by 8:00 am or the evening vigil by 4:00 pm.
Practicing Catholics can also attend confessions by 4:15 on weekdays, 9:00 am and 2:30 pm on Saturdays, and 4:00 pm on Sundays.
If you’re new to the Catholic faith, check the “Becoming Catholic” section on the Cathedral website to guide you.
Address: 524 E. Lawrence Avenue, Springfield, Illinois
4. Southside Christian Church (Connect & Grow in Faith)
If you want to connect and grow with everyday people who share your faith, look no further than the Southside Christian Church.
The Church’s mission is to create and nurture a welcoming and diverse community dedicated to following wherever God leads.
They also strive to make disciples of Jesus for the transformation of the city and the whole world.
The Church worships on Sundays at 9:00 am and 10:30 am, with a live broadcast only available for the 9:00 am service.
Other events, groups, community meetings, and classes are scheduled throughout the week.
Although children can attend the adult service, it’s best to drop them off at the kids’ area, where they’ll participate in age-specific activities.
So, come down to the Southside Christian Church for an hour of energetic service and the opportunity to connect with God and build lasting relationships with others.
Address: 2600 South MacArthur Blvd, Springfield, IL.
Also see our article on Amusement Parks in Illinois.
Churches in Rockford, Illinois
1. Third Presbyterian Church (Welcoming Community)
Third Presbyterian Church is a welcoming community committed to helping those around Rockford who want to understand Christianity.
With a focus on learning and understanding the Bible and following the way of Jesus and his followers, the Church aims to connect with and encourage people to join in a life-enhancing Christian journey.
The Church’s vision is to make an impact for God within the city by helping others understand God’s fulfilling messages of eternal hope given to humanity through the words and deeds of Jesus Christ.
Under the leadership of the interim pastor, Pastor Stephen Bowie, the Church opens its doors to you for worship on Sunday at 10:15 am.
If you can’t attend the physical service, you can join in on Zoom and Facebook Live or listen in on the radio.
Address: 1221 Custer Ave, Rockford, IL.
2. Silver Hill Pentecostal Church (Experience God’s Power)
Do you feel like your imperfect life is restricting your spiritual growth?
Or is your life too messy for God to help you?
Whatever you think your imperfections are, experience transformation in Jesus Christ at the Silver Hill Pentecostal Church.
The Silver Hill Pentecostal Church is a community of people with imperfect and messy lives striving to cultivate a transforming relationship with Jesus and each other.
Under the leadership of Pastor Anthony Bailey, the Church aims to lead people in a growing relationship with Jesus.
So, if you want to begin your religious journey or improve your relationship with God, the Silver Hill Pentecostal Church is a good fit for you.
The Church has two services on Sundays at 10 am and 11 am, each providing a unique opportunity to experience God and feel motivated to grow in Him.
Address: 4401 20th Street, Rockford, IL.
3. Rock Church (Focus on Discipleship)
Since its creation in the 1940s and subsequent growth into what the Church is today, the Rock Church has remained committed to serving the Rockford community for over 70 years.
With a vision to fulfill the Great Commandment and the Great Commission, the Church has created a detailed outline to help guide members toward this vision.
The Church also has a Discipled, Nurtured, and Accountable (DNA) discipleship initiative with the sole focus of making disciples through studying, keeping, and meditating on the commandments of Jesus.
Essentially, your personal relationship with Jesus influences the DNA.
Similarly, DNA helps build your personal relationship with Jesus.
So, why not attend any of the 8 am or 10 am Sunday services at the Rock Church?
You can also attend the fellowship dinner on Wednesdays at 5:45 pm and the service at 6:30 pm.
Address: 6732 Harrison Ave, Rockford, IL.
Also see our article on Trampoline Parks in Illinois.
Churches in Danville, Illinois
1. Community Church of God (Love-Centered Outreach)
Committed to building a reputation as a community church, the Community Church of God strives to create a loving community for members and share that love by giving back to the community.
This vision is rooted in the passion to follow Jesus and make disciples who, in turn, make other disciples.
The Church aims to create a safe, welcoming community that accepts people for who they are and creates an opportunity for them to become who God created them to be.
Sounds very profound, right?
Although the Community Church is affiliated with the Church of God Reformation Movement, it is a non-denominational church focused on changing lives through the power of God.
So, come on Sunday for Sunday school at 9 am and Worship Service at 10 am to experience home away from home.
Address: 535 S Bowman Ave, Danville, IL.
2. Central Christian Church (Love-Centered Christian Community)
Are you looking for a Christian Community with Love at the center of its foundational beliefs?
Then, look no further than the Central Christian Church.
The Central Christian Church is on a mission to love people into a relationship with Jesus.
With its core values of acceptance, truth, unity, and community, the Church strives to create an open and non-threatening environment designed to foster the spiritual growth of members.
The Church also believes in the universal nature of Christianity.
Hence, people from other denominations can join the Church without requiring rebaptism.
Sunday service at the Central Christian Church is divided into three parts.
First, there’s Sunday school at 9 am.
Then, a meet and greet session at 9:45 am.
Finally, worship service at 10 am.
Address: 1101 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL.
3. Life Church (Personal Relationship with God)
Founded over forty years ago by Pastors Archie and Sheila Neal, the Life Church strives to create an opportunity for everybody to know God, find freedom, and discover their purpose to help them make a difference in their lives and areas of influence.
The Church tries to achieve this vision by intentionally cultivating the culture.
More than practicing religion, the Church strives to create an opportunity for you to have a personal relationship with God.
New members can use the Growth Track to explore the Life Church, grow with God, discover their purpose, and learn how to use their God-given gifts.
Similarly, the Church provides resources for new converts or those who want a fresh start in their relationship with God.
Sunday service starts at 9:00 am and 10:45 am.
Address: 2105 N Bowman Ave. Danville, IL.
Also see our article on Water Parks in Illinois.
Churches in Pekin, Illinois
1. Pekin First United Methodist Church (Welcoming & Accessible)
Perkin First United Methodist Church has existed in the city for over 182 years.
The Church tries to create a welcoming environment for all members, especially new members.
With a wheelchair-accessible entrance and greeters to meet you at each entrance, the Church tries to help you feel at home and comfortable from the first visit.
The greeters are also available to direct you and answer all your questions.
Church services are scheduled for 8:00 am and 10:00 am on Sundays and 5:00 pm on Saturdays.
The Church also offers Sunday worship at Pekin Estates Retirement Apartments at 1 pm every Sunday and at Cedarhurst Senior Living Community by 9:30 am.
However, the service at Cedarhurst only holds in the morning on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month.
If you have family members that reside at these locations, you can inform them of the service.
Address: 1315 Court St Pekin, IL.
2. First Christian Church (D of C) (Inclusive & Casual Sundays)
The Frist Christian Church is a community of people from different backgrounds and experiences at different places in their spiritual journeys.
So, whether you’re a new or old Christian or from a non-religious background, the Church always has a seat for you.
Members of this congregation are committed to helping you embody your commitment to Jesus Christ and develop your relationship with God.
Sundays at the First Christain Church are casual.
You can wear whatever you like and enjoy God’s presence however best.
The Sunday 9:00 am service follows the traditional style with music led by an organ, congregational singing of hymns, and a bell choir.
Service also includes a message from the spirit-filled Pastor Mark Foglio, prayer time, and celebration of communion.
Address: 1201 Chestnut Street, Pekin, IL.
3. Gethsemane Church (Independent & Bible-Believing)
Gethsemane Church is an independent King James Bible-believing church.
This means that the Church is non-denominational and exclusively worships with the King James Version of the Bible.
The Church seeks to follow the Bible, and like the doors of salvation, the Church’s door is always open to welcome you.
With a mission to be fully devoted to Jesus by welcoming those searching for the truth, the Gethsemane Church strives to show God’s love and concern at every opportunity.
By actively performing works of charity, listening, and sharing love, they believe they are walking in Christ’s footsteps.
The Church’s doctrine is rooted in 12 foundational principles backed by passages from the Scripture.
You can visit to learn more and worship with them.
Sunday service commences with Bible study at 10 am.
You can also attend the evening service at 6 pm.
Address: 600 State St. Pekin, IL.
Also see our article on Indoor Water Parks in Illinois.
Churches in Bloomington, Illinois
1. Evangelical Free Church (Doctrinally Focused)
A free church is free from state control, and each local community is autonomous from hierarchical and ecclesiastical control.
Led by Pastor Rick Wagner and Pastor Omar Anaya, the Evangelical Free Church in Bloomington is affiliated with the Evangelical Free Church of America.
The local Church in Bloomington was founded in 1967 and has a leadership structure for pastors, directors, and office staff to help with the proper administration of the Church and the spiritual guidance of members.
If you align with the Evangelical Free Church of America doctrines or want to know more about it, check out the local Church in Bloomington.
In line with the EFCA doctrines, the Church upholds and practices ten theological convictions that form the foundation of its faith.
You can worship physically with E-Free Church on Sunday at 9:00 am and 10:30 am or attend the virtual service at 10 am.
Address: 2910 E Lincoln St, Bloomington, IL.
2. Crossroads Chapel (Transformation & Renewal)
Are you confused about life or the next phase or steps to take?
If yes, maybe the Crossroads Chapel is a good home for you.
Founded in 1989, the Crossroads Chapel is a non-denominational Christian Community founded with a genuine concern for people at the crossroads of life in search of spiritual change and renewal.
A major theme for the Church is a commitment to restoration and the redemptive power of Christ.
The Church has six essential principles and the sole purpose of glorifying and enjoying God.
With an objective to proclaim and practice the teachings of the Bible in the love and grace of Jesus, the Church set out on a mission to help those at the crossroads of life find Jesus Christ.
So, why not worship at the Crossroads Chapel on Sunday by 10:00 am?
Address: 1049 J C Pkwy, Bloomington, IL
3. Harvest Church (Connectivity Through Bands)
Harvest Church is a welcoming, relevant, and life-giving Church established to impact the lives of people and the community.
With Jesus at the center of all they do and the hope for the world, the Church strives to create a community that accepts everybody, whether you have been a practicing Christian or never stepped inside a church.
The Church tries to create a safe space for you to explore your ideas about God, ask questions, and develop a deeper understanding of the faith you profess.
You can also join the Band Community to help you remain connected with other members and up-to-date with other activities and events in the Church.
There’s also a prayer group where you can share your prayer needs and join your faith to pray for others.
Sunday service commences at 10 am.
Address: 712 W Locust St., Bloomington, IL.
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Churches in Columbia, Illinois
1. St Paul United Church of Christ (Children’s Ministry & Education)
St. Paul United Church of Christ opens its doors to everybody, irrespective of whether you are in your spiritual and life journey.
The church service comprises responsive readings, prayers, blended styles of music performed by different groups, and a message.
Those who cannot attend the physical service are welcome to join the live stream on YouTube.
St. Paul UCC also offers you the opportunity to train your children in the ways of the Lord with the Children’s Ministry and the Christian Education or Faith Formation designed to help children learn about God.
If you want your children to learn the Word, walk with God, and grow in the Spirit, St. Paul UCC is an excellent place to start.
So, endeavor to worship here on Sundays by 9:30 am.
Address: 127 St. Paul Street, Columbia, IL
2. Life Community Church (New People Party Welcomes)
If you’re new to Columbia or searching for a church to serve as your home away from home, look no further than the Life Community Church.
The Life Community Church operates on three fundamental principles – Love Jesus, Serve People, and Make Disciples.
It is a place for family and relationships.
Created by lead pastors Jamey and Kelly Bridges in 2011, the Church focuses on creating a space for Christians to feel like they belong.
To help achieve this goal, new members are invited to the New People Party to help them meet and build relationships with other church members.
The Church also provides detailed resources to help guide you on the next steps to follow in your spiritual journey.
You can attend any Sunday service at 8:30 am or 10:30 am for an opportunity to worship God and fellowship with the community.
Address: 626 W. Bottom Ave, Columbia, IL
3. The Way Church (Practice the Way of Jesus)
A disciple is a person who is committed to spending time with Jesus, being like him, and practicing His way.
The primary vision of congregation members at The Way Church is to be like Jesus.
Founded in 2008, the Way Church is on a mission to practice the way of Jesus together.
To achieve this mission, the Church focuses on living the gospel intentionally and finding more people who identify as Christians and live out the identity of being with and like Jesus.
Heavily committed to finding people who share these beliefs, the Church strives to make Christianity a lifestyle.
Under the leadership of Pastor Jon Palmer, the Church has five core values: simplicity, authenticity, elasticity, generosity, and curiosity.
If interested, you can attend Sunday service at 9:00 am and 10:45 am.
Not in town?
Don’t worry; you can stream the services via YouTube and Facebook Live.
Address: 600 Columbia Centre Dr, Columbia, IL.
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