Our Story

The Building

When Liberty Baptist Church of Kankakee, IL dissolved, their trustees contacted Sauk Trail Baptist Temple, asking that they purchase the remaining equipment in the church. Pastor Bruce Humbert saw the opportunity to reach Kankakee with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He contacted Ben and Jessica Seyden and asked them to survey the opportunity and seek the Lord’s direction. They have now joined together to plant a new work in the existing building. The property is in a prime location for a vibrant ministry in this growing area.

The Pastor

Ben and Jessica Seyden have long been burdened for the ministry of church planting. This desire to see new works established lead them to Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MO, where they both received Missions degrees. It brought them back after several years of practical ministry experience to further their education. Ben received his MABC from the Graduate School in May 2007. They have been part-time staff members of Berean Baptist Church, Bolivar, MO for six-years, gaining a variety of experience at all levels of ministry. They have been married for ten-years and have three-children

Ben was born into a Christian home in California. At the age of six, his mother lead him to the Lord while reading The Pilgrim’s Progress. His father, a deacon in their Baptist Church, baptized him. He surrendered to ministry as a senior in High School, and has faithfully served the Lord since then.

Jessica’s family was part of a church plant in Oregon. She was saved at a young age, and recommitted her life to the Lord while at BBC. She has played an active role in each of the ministries they have held.

Andrew is eight. He is in the 3rd grade, and is a soccer star who loves TaeKwonDo.

Bethany is seven. She is in the 2nd grade and is their little princess.

Joshua is two. He is the life of the party with a contagious smile.

The Opportunity

When Sauk Trail was presented with this opportunity several months ago, they immediately saw the hand of the Lord at work in Kankakee. This growing area is in desperate need of an independent Baptist Church as a lighthouse of God’s Word. As Chicago’s bed-room communities continue to move further South, it is important that we answer this need for Chicagoland.

We’re convinced of the importance of this ministry. This property is far too valuable to the Lord’s work to let it become a parking lot.

We’re convinced of the imperative of this need. This church-plant needs your support. They will build an effective ministry with the help of faithful men.

Please prayerfully consider supporting Riverside Baptist Church. The hand of the Lord is evident in this church-plant. What part does he have for you to play in the ministry in Kankakee, IL?