God's Faithfulness Through the Years
From our humble beginnings in 1959 to our current impact across Northern Illinois, Three Rivers Baptist Association has been shaped by God's faithfulness and the dedication of His people.
Formation of Three Rivers Baptist Association
On October 3, 1959, twelve churches met at First Southern Baptist Church of Joliet to organize the Three Rivers Baptist Association. This historic meeting included churches from Ottawa, Morris, Wilmington, Lockport, and surrounding communities.
Founding Churches: Ottawa, Morris, Wilmington, Lockport, Joliet First Southern, Earlville, Sandwich, Aurora Calvary, Kankakee Fourth Avenue and Wall Street, Peru, and Braidwood, with three missions—Preston Heights, Bristol Station and Dwight.
Great Lakes Baptist Association Division
The Great Lakes Baptist Association divided into three new associations: Three Rivers, Lake County, and Fox Valley Baptist Associations. This strategic reorganization allowed for more focused ministry in each region.
New Leadership Era
Dr. Dan Eddington joined as Director of Missions, bringing renewed focus on church planting and church health. Under his leadership, the association has seen significant growth in both member churches and new church starts.
Global Missions Partnership
Three Rivers became the Virtual Strategy Coordinator for Eastern Slovakia, expanding our impact to international missions. This partnership has included disaster relief efforts, church planting support, and ongoing missionary engagement.
Growing Impact
With 34 current member churches and multiple active ministry partnerships, we continue to multiply disciples and transform communities for God's Kingdom. Our reach extends from Chicago suburbs to rural communities across Northern Illinois.
Our Heritage
65+ Years
Of faithful service to churches across Northern Illinois
50+ Churches
Have been part of our association throughout our history
Global Impact
Extending our reach through international missions