OUR HISTORY:

On October 26, 1865, 65 members of the North Baptist Church met on Belvidere's south side for the purpose of establishing the South Belvidere Baptist Church. In September, 1866, a lot was purchased on the corner of State Street and State Road. (It later became known as Logan Avenue and South State Street) The church was dedicated on September 19, 1867.

A fire completely destroyed the church building in 1871. A new church building was erected on that site and dedicated in October, 1873, with 241 members.

The name was changed to South Baptist in 1888. In August, 1953, the church broke away from the Northern Baptist Convention because of the rise of modernism within it, and soon afterward it united with the Conservative Baptist Association, and later left that group, becomming an Independent Baptist Church.

The church name was changed in 1965 to Calvary Baptist Church. The name "South Baptist Church" seemed to give the impression that it was a member of the Southern Baptist Convention, which was not the case; therefore it was felt best to do away with that name. Also that year, two acres of land were purchased on 7th Avenue (the present site). Groundbreaking was September 29, 1968, and the dedication of this church building was held on October 26, 1969. In May, 1987, groundbreaking was held here for the 11,000 square feet addition consisting of our gymnasium, multi-purpose room, kitchen, bathrooms, offices, and bookstore. It was dedicated on April 24, 1988.

The church has had 29 pastors counting the present pastor, Todd Neff.

We rejoice that it still stands for the fundamentals truths of the Word of God and it is our prayer that it will continue to do so.


OUR VALUES:

Biblical Authority—We believe that the Bible is the very Word of God and carries more authority than church traditions or cultural norms. Therefore, we strive to keep the Bible as the primary focus of our teaching and preaching, and the ultimate standard by which we make our decisions. 2 Timothy 3:16

Love for God and Man—We believe that to love God and man is the greatest of all commandments. Therefore, we should strive to create an atmosphere characterized by love and compassion, not duty and fear. Matthew 22:37-39

The Gospel of Christ—We believe in the good news of the transforming work of Christ's death and resurrection. Therefore, we should strive to personally and corporately reach the lost, both at home and abroad, through relevant means, that are consistent with Godly teaching. Romans 1:16

Strong Christian Relationships—We believe that God intended for His church to be composed of strong Christian relationships among the believers to promote spiritual growth. Therefore, we should strive to maintain a sense of openness, accountability, and atmosphere that strengthens both healthy and broken families, and a heart that reaches the needs of every age, group, and race. Romans 12:10

Prayer—We believe prayer is the essential mode by which we communicate with God. Therefore, we strive to make private and corporate prayer an essential part of the conception, planning, and execution of all ministries and activities of the church. 2 Timothy 2:1

Holy Living—We believe that God has chosen us out of darkness and placed us into His marvelous light. Therefore, we strive to teach and live in such a way that we reflect "walking in the light." 1 Peter 1:15, 16

The Supremacy of Christ—We believe that Christ alone is the head of the church and we are the body. Therefore, we strive to keep Him as the focal point of our corporate and personal worship and to conform all our activities to his desires and pleasure. Colossians 2:9

Personal Christian Growth—We believe that continual growth in all areas of the Christian life is one of the benefits of being in Christ. Therefore, we strive to create an environment that enhances the development of personal spiritual growth. 2 Peter 3:18

Authentic Worship—God deserves all the glory and praise we can give. Therefore, we should strive to make our worship excellent, authentic, and Christ-centered. John 4:23, 24

Excellence—We believe that excellence is an essential part of God's character and that all pursuits of the local church should reflect this quality. Therefore, we strive to demonstrate excellence in every function of the church ministries, as well as in the maintenance of the church facilities. 1 Corinthians 14:40