We are Dan and Patty Ihm, and we live in DeKalb with our children, Elliott, Sam, Gabriel, Sadie, and Ethan. We would like to share the story of our journey to Hillcrest Covenant Church.

We both grew up in families that attended church regularly, and each of us has always felt close to God and Jesus. We both attended Northern Illinois University, and it was there that we met through a mutual friend. After our marriage in 1990, we lived in Oak Park and then Elmhurst, where we welcomed three sons: Elliott, Sam, and Gabriel; and one daughter, Sadie. In 2000, our family settled back in DeKalb. We had always gone to church as a family, and though we belonged to a place of worship, we often felt called to attend other churches, perhaps in search of something that would make us feel "spiritually whole." As our children grew and sometimes questioned their faith, we felt ours wavering as well. Though faithful churchgoers, we were somehow still searching.

At a summer baseball game, a family friend and member of Hillcrest Covenant Church who knew of our struggles gently suggested that we visit her church, where we would always be welcome. Shortly thereafter, we brought our family to our new church home. From that very first service, we knew that Hillcrest was right for us. We felt content and comfortable, clearly among friends. For many reasons, Hillcrest impressed us: the network of friends and fellowship; the dedicated and eager leaders of children and adult ministries; the great opportunities for reaching out to others; and the genuine care and concern for others that is so evident at this church. How easy it is to listen to the word of God when your soul is satisfied and when you feel that you are home.

Within a year, we became members. We have begun to involve ourselves in more of the ministries and activities that the church offers, such as bible studies, music ministry, and Sunday school. As a foster and adoptive family, we are never without a toddler (or two) in tow, and we are thankful that Hillcrest has a nursery room for the youngest family members, and preschool and Children’s Church services for young children through early school age.

Though it took our family a while to find Hillcrest Covenant Church, we know now that we are in the right place. We thank God (and our friend) for leading us to our new church home.