Our History

Bethany Community Church is a church plant of Bethany Baptist Church in Peoria, IL. (Bethany Baptist Church’s history).

In June of 2005, Pastor Ritch Boerckel shared with Bethany Baptist the leadership's desire to plant a church on the east side of the Illinois River. In October of 2005, Bethany Baptist purchased a farmhouse (the current BCC offices) and outbuildings on 3 acres in Washington, IL with an option to purchase an additional 75 acres by 2010.

In the fall of 2007, Bethany Baptist moved forward with its church plant plans. Pastor Daniel Bennett took an eight-week sabbatical in order to transition from his responsibilities as family pastor to church plant pastor.

In January 2008, a leadership team was identified. Bethany Community Church began meeting as a Sunday School during second service at Bethany Baptist on May 18, 2008.

In September 2009, the first services were held at Five Points Washington. Our church meets in the theater for a worship service, and uses the banquet rooms and other rooms for our Sunday School and nursery.

As we continue to meet at Five Points Washington, we are trusting the Lord for the opportunity to purchase the 75 acres adjacent to the Bethany Community offices.