What is an Anabaptist?
From "What is an Anabaptist Christian?" by Palmer Becker.
See the complete original document HERE
Meet our Pastor
Jacob Landis
Jacob began pastoring at Science Ridge in June of 2023.
In years prior, Jacob served as a pulpit supply preacher and short-term interim pastor throughout Illinois. He has also served as Program Director at Menno Haven Camp and Retreat Center in Tiskilwa, IL, where he managed and ran summer camps and other retreat events.
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In addition to pastoring, Jacob farms with his brothers and parents on their organic dairy and grain farm around Sterling.
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Jacob is married to Leah, 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.
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