In 1850, Millard Fillmore was President, California became a state, and the first wooden, hand-cranked dishwasher was invented. That same year, in the heart of central Illinois, a small group of believers founded First Baptist Church of Pekin. Now, 175 years later, the church is still going strong.

Much has changed since those early days—technology, clothing fashion, musical styles, and even the church’s location—but the essentials remain: First Baptist Pekin continues to gather to worship Jesus Christ, seek Him in prayer, and to learn and live His teachings. 

To celebrate its 175th anniversary, the church is hosting special services (at 9am and 10:30am) on Sunday, October 12th, with a luncheon to follow. They look forward to former members, friends, and longtime partners in ministry returning to reconnect and reflect. In the weeks leading up to the event, Sunday services will feature special moments from the church’s history—including testimonies of a financial gift from Abraham Lincoln, a visit from Billy Graham, and other memorable ministry highlights. They will also be hosting a family comedy night with a guest comedian, Andy Beningo, on October 5th. 

But the celebration is more than just a church birthday—it's a celebration of their mission: Loving God and People.

For this reason the church is expanding its outreach efforts to include:

• A neighborhood Block Party
• 175 care packages for nursing home residents
• Wednesday night Kids’ events like a Splash Bash and a Back-to-School Foam Party
• Two-Laundromat Takeovers (where they pay for locals’ laundry)
• Two-Gas Gift Card Giveaways at a local station
• Handing out hundreds of ice-cold water bottles at Mineral Springs Park
• Preparing and delivering lunch to residents at a nearby apartment complex

“Our goal isn’t just to celebrate how long we’ve been around,” said a church representative. “It’s to celebrate how far God’s love can reach.”

For more information about the October 12th celebration or to purchase tickets for the luncheon, please contact the church office at 309-347-5965.