Bloomingdale Church began as a new congregation on April 2, 1978 meeting in a local public school. A few families from the Lombard Bible Church and the Blanchard (Wellspring) Alliance Church joined together to help get the congregation started. As the church grew, it moved into its first building on the present five-acre parcel on Glen Ellyn Road in July 1979. The 264 Glen Ellyn Road property also included a small brick farmhouse that is still a part of the church campus and serves as a parsonage for one of the pastoral staff.
In 1984, the emerging congregation took a step of faith to construct a sanctuary. Five years later in 1989, they added a large activity center with a vision of providing a safe, active place for the youth. Then in 1995, the congregation embraced the challenge of doubling the size of the sanctuary and adding new classrooms, including the 264.Coffeehouse. In 2007, the church broke ground again on “Phase Four” which provided additional space for larger group meetings, kids classrooms, a small library, an elevator, and additional parking.
Over the years, many new friends have come to the Bloomingdale Church. The congregation has assisted in the launching of several other congregations and has been a part of the ordination of more than dozen assistant pastors. Dr. David (and Marina) Riemenschneider have remained the lead pastoral couple of the congregation for since planting the church. Associate Dr. Bill (and Nancy) Calvin have served on the pastoral staff since 2003, and Daniel (and Amy) Riemenschneider since 2004. Throughout its history, the staff has also included many newer staff and interns, contributing to its mentoring culture.
The church’s mission statement affirms its commitment to “help people know Jesus be a “worshiping, praying, learning, caring, and outreaching community.” Though the programs and activities of the church change over time, the church’s commitment to the Bible as the Word of God governs its priorities, activities, and leadership.
The church is often known in the community for its free annual summer Day Camp, children’s programs, teen coffeehouse, active women’s groups, men’s groups and busy parking lot. Bloomingdale Church regularly partners with local organizations like the Bloomingdale Park District and DuJardin Elementary School.
