An Independent Baptist Church - Fundamental in doctrine, Fervent in Spirit
El Vista Baptist Church, in Peoria, IL; 6301 North Syler Street, (309) 692-8675
El Vista Baptist Academy, using A Beka Curriculum in grades K4 - 8th
Keywords: church, baptist, peoria, illinois, independent, fundamental
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
We have just celebrated our 61st anniversary...since May 30, 1949.
What is your primary product or service?
We are a Bible-believing, Bible-preaching and teaching Baptist Church. A part of our ministry also includes a Christian day school for pre-K through 8th grade.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I grew up in El Vista Baptist Church from the time I was 2 years old, when my parents became Christians. I accepted Jesus Christ as my Saviour when I was 5 years old. After attending Bible college and seminary, I was pastor of an Indiana church for 7 years. I returned to Peoria to become pastor of El Vista Baptist Church January 1, 1986.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
We have a few things that may differentiate us from some similar ministries. We offer interpretation of our services for the hearing impaired. On Sunday and Wednesday we have Sunday School and worship services in Spanish. We use only conservative sacred music, and in our English services we teach and preach from the King James Bible. We support over 40 missionaries through the faith promise program, and reach into the community through our bus ministry.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
Only one, and we do not have immediate expansion plans.
Provide detailed directions to your location
From the intersection of Willow Knolls/Big Hollow Rd. and War Memorial Drive, go south on Big Hollow Road 4/10 mile. Turn right on Briardale, and go 1 block to Syler St. Turn left on Syler St., and after going a block, the church will be on your right. The main entrance is on the far side of the building, off the large parking lot.
What type of payments do you accept?
N/A
Which areas do you service?
We have people who regularly attend from Peoria, East Peoria, Creve Coeur, Washington, Tremont, Edwards, Peoria Heights, Pekin, Brimfield, and other areas. Visitors are welcome from anywhere.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
El Vista Baptist Church and Academy are owned by the church congregation. The pastor & his staff oversee the daily operation of these ministries.
What are your hours of operation?
Our school day runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Our service times are: Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Morning service 10:30 a.m.; Training Union 5:00 p.m.; Evening service 6:00 p.m.; and Prayer Meeting/Bible Study, Wednesday 7:00 p.m.; Churchwide Visitation, Thursday, various times.