Christ Church was planted with her opening service in September of 1989 with the help of Grace Presbyterian of Peoria under the leadership of Pastor John Ziegler. The original name was “Willowbeech Presbyterian Church,” which met at the corner of Willow and Beech Streets inside the ISU Recreation Center.

By May 17, 1992 we were organized as a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America. Although without a founding pastor at first, by June 1993 the congregation called and ordained Pastor Bob Smart. The congregation established by-laws, moved to a new location at 1606 Hunt Drive in Normal, and ordained its first deacons and four more elders.

By 1998, we changed our name to “Christ Church,” established a mission statement, and purchased land at the corner of Shelbourne and Linden Streets. In the Fall of 2000 Christ Church moved into our present building at 1301 North Linden Street. During the next season of the church’s life, we hired an administrative assistant, and called three more pastors—Pastor David Keithley (pastor of youth & family, 2003), Pastor Jeff McCord (pastor of ministries, 2006), and Pastor Duane Otto (pastor at large, 2007).

During the summer of 2008, we launched our Kairos Building Project to raise capital and build our next phase to our existing building by 2009. This completed phase improved cosmetics, sound system, and added space for an improved youth room, nursery, choir room, offices, and prayer room.

As we enter the next season of growth, we look forward to welcoming new faces and members who love Christ supremely and sending out workers and leaders of ministries to spread His glory among all peoples.