Our Story
Nearly six decades of faithful witness at the Illinois State Fair
Our Mission
Exhibit Evangelism exists to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to all who attend the State Fair, faithfully teaching God's word and inviting every visitor to know and obey the good news. Through a welcoming, Scripture-centered exhibit staffed by dedicated volunteers, we seek to plant and nurture faith, support Bible study, and serve families—giving all glory to the Lord as we bring His message into the marketplace.
Our Journey
The Beginning
After careful planning and preparation, the Lord's church launches an exhibit at the State Fair to reach fairgoers with the Gospel message.
New Leadership
Burl Price becomes director, with oversight held by the 20th Street church of Christ in Rockford, IL.
Transition Period
Ray Christman serves as director during this transitional period, continuing the faithful witness at the State Fair.
Steady Growth
Bill Clary serves as director. Oversight moves to Sunnyside Road church of Christ in Decatur, marking a period of stability and growth.
Continuing Legacy
Peter Bumpass begins his service as director, a role he continues to this day. Oversight transfers to East Peoria church of Christ.
Dual Leadership
Ron Thomas joins as director, serving concurrently with Peter Bumpass. Highway church of Christ assumes oversight, which continues to the present.
Ongoing Ministry
J.E. Miller serves as Exhibit Coordinator. The exhibit operates 10 consecutive days, 12 hours per day, with dedicated volunteers providing Bible studies, children's activities, and ongoing follow-up throughout the year.
Faithful Leadership
Throughout the decades, dedicated servants have led this ministry with faithfulness and vision:
J.E. Miller currently serves as Exhibit Coordinator
How We Serve
During the Fair
- •Open 10 consecutive days, 12 hours per day
- •Volunteers work in scheduled shifts
- •Food and lodging provided for workers
- •Children's activities: Joy Junction, photos, computer games, Bible quizzes
- •Setup (~1.5 days) before opening; teardown and storage after closing
Year-Round Ministry
- •Home Bible studies registered, graded, and mailed
- •Continuous follow-up with interested visitors
- •Congregational visits for reports and planning
- •Financial support gathered (no salaries; funds cover exhibit expenses)
Lasting Impact
"Approximately 30 years ago, a couple encountered our exhibit at the State Fair. Through the Bible studies and faithful teaching they received, they obeyed the gospel. Today, the husband serves as an elder in the Lord's church—a testament to how God uses faithful witness to transform lives and build His kingdom."
Our Core Values
Faithfulness
Remaining true to Scripture while engaging contemporary culture with the timeless Gospel message.
Service
Volunteers dedicating their time and talents to welcome every visitor and share God's word with love.
Community
Building lasting relationships among congregations united in mission and shared purpose.
Join Us at the 2026 Fair
Visit our exhibit at the Illinois State Fair and experience firsthand how we share the Gospel in the marketplace. Bring your family for Bible studies, children's activities, and fellowship.