The shooting deaths of nine people at a Wednesday night prayer meeting at a Charleston, South Carolina, church raises two thoughts almost simultaneously: How could that happen? and, That could never happen here. Until it does. The tragic shooting death of Maryville pastor Fred Winters in 2011 is all the reminder people in Illinois need […]
Vale Church breaks ground on new location
“We realized we needed a new tool in order to become more effective in reaching our community in Bloomington-Normal and beyond,” Pastor Ted Max, said. Read…
A place of safety: Why security should be on every church’s radar
Violent attacks do happen inside the church walls, and with that realization comes the challenge to be ready for the next time, perhaps in our own sanctuary. Read…
Churches band together for ‘Big Give’
“The impact of an initiative like Big Give is almost immeasurable; 40,000 pounds of food will allow a ministry like Home Sweet Home to provide services to those who are homeless and under-resourced for over six months,” said Mark Weaver, Vale’s pastor of connections. Read…
Big day for church starts; Three congregations launched September 18
“September 18 in the Metro region is a very special day. I am so grateful for what God is doing here and [for] the faithfulness of the planters. And I can only imagine the impact these churches will have immediately and for eternity.” Read…