Our History

Church of the Redeemer was organized in 1962 under the ministry of Rev. Vincent Strigas (former pastor of Church of the Savior ABC) and 73 charter members.

One year later, the first worship hall was built but now serves as our fellowship hall as our current sanctuary was completed in 1971.

The Redeemer of this time became known for it’s participation in lay-training events, including the now-defunct Center of Biblical Training and Redeemer Theological Seminary.

In 1978, Redeemer established it’s first daughter church, Cornerstone Bible Fellowship, and in 1980 Redeemer Christian School was organized as a fully accredited school currently serving K-12. Still in operation today as a separate entity, it has adopted the classical Christian school model.

1986 was a dramatic year, as Redeemer planted another church in Grace Covenant Church, and the founding pastor Vincent Strigas went to be with the Lord.

In 1993, our current senior pastor, Gary L. W. Johnson was called (see Gary’s qualifications and publications). Under his leadership we have hosted The Philadelphia Conferences on Reformation Theology 2003-2005. Each year around May we hold our own conference with a noted theologian or scholar (see our conference archives).

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