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Who is Science Ridge Church?

Get to Know Us

Science Ridge Church is a community that believes we should follow Jesus in our day to day lives. We have been meeting at the church on Science Ridge Road with this purpose in mind for over 165 years. 

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We identify as Contemporary Anabaptist Christians in the Mennonite tradition. 

What makes us different? See the comparison below, and check out our Mission and Values!

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What to check us out? Plan a Visit!

What is an Anabaptist?

From "What is an Anabaptist Christian?" by Palmer Becker.

See the complete original document HERE

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Meet our Pastor
Pastor Jacob and Leah Landis_edited.jpg

Jacob began pastoring at Science Ridge in June of 2023.

Prior to coming to Science Ridge, Jacob served as a pulpit supply preacher and short-term interim pastor throughout Illinois. 

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In addition to pastoring, Jacob farms with his family on their organic dairy and grain farm around Sterling. 

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Jacob and wife Leah, have a son, Ben, and together they enjoy tending their garden, singing, and practicing hospitality.

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Jacob is a graduate of Hesston College, Eastern Mennonite University, and Friends University. He holds a Master's in Christian Spiritual Formation and Leadership and is licensed through Willow Springs Mennonite Church and Illinois Mennonite Conference. 

The Landis Family

History of
Science Ridge Mennonite Church

Eleven years after the establishment of Whiteside County, Illinois, Mennonites began coming to this county. In 1852, Benjamin Stauffer and his wife were the first to arrive, coming from Pennsylvania. The group first met together in Joseph Snavely's corn barn. In 1858, a church building was built on land donated by Jacob Snavely. The site chosen was adjacent to a small community burying ground that was taken over by the church.


The name "Science Ridge" came from a one-room schoolhouse that stood near the church. The school became known for science and education, so the surrounding area was called Science Ridge.


The original church was added on to and modernized over the years, and the current church building was completed on May 7, 1967. 


In 2008, Science Ridge Mennonite Church Celebrated its 150th anniversary.  


Adapted from Mary Helen Wade, 2008

Science Ridge Mennonite Church

Write Us

(815) 626-0538

ScienceRidgeChurch@gmail.com

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1702 E. 37th Street,

Sterling, IL. 61081

©2025 by Science Ridge Mennonite Church.

Photography By Brian Slater.

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