Serving Normal and McLean County since 1978

Christ the King Church: A Brief History

Christ the King Church began as a mission of St. Matthew’s parish, Bloomington, in 1978, with the Rev. Edward (Ted) Downes as its priest. As a mission, it was dependent, in part, upon financial support of the Diocese of Springfield until 1993, when it attained parish status. During a portion of its life, Christ the King was the designated campus ministry for students at Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University.

In its 40-plus years, the people of Christ the King have occupied buildings made holy by worshippers from other Christian traditions. The first building housed the former Normal Mennonite Church. In 1996, the parish moved to its current location, the first home of Christ Lutheran Church. Five priests have served Christ the King, Fathers Ted Downes, Gus Franklin, John Richmond, Robert Montiel, and Desmond Francis. From 2015-2020, when the church was without a priest, Fr. Gene Stormer and Fr. Jim Cravens provided faithful witness as supply clergy.

Christ the King has been known, at various times, for its liturgy, music, outreach, stewardship, and lay leadership in the diocese. Parishioners have come from both universities in Bloomington-Normal, joined by many folks in the insurance industry. (State Farm’s corporate headquarters are in Bloomington.) And more besides. As with many different churches in the United States, time and cultural changes have brought ups and downs in membership. In the midst of change, the Body of Christ at 1210 South Fell Avenue in Normal lives—and lives in hope, as Christians are called to do.