Our Story

A congregation of people inside a church during a Christmas service, holding candles, with wreaths and festive decorations around.
A church with stone walls and a slate roof, open red doors with a Christian cross above, and a chalkboard sign outside with handwritten announcements, flanked by green bushes and trees.

Welcome. Refuge. Belonging. Servanthood.

Led by the Holy Spirit, we are a community of disciples following the way of Jesus in Springfield and Delaware County.

People inside a church standing in pews, holding papers, possibly singing or reading during a service. The church has wooden beams, a high ceiling, and hanging lights.

History

Over the decades, Redeemer has grown and adapted, as well as contracted as circumstances demanded.
The 1940’s and 50’s brought an influx of families and a renewed energy in programming and leadership, and became a Parish in the Diocese. The 1990's saw a peak in young families and vibrancy in the traditional model of church. As we pass our Centennial we give thanks for the legacy we have inherited and take seriously our call to shape a legacy for those yet to come.

We understand that it is our time to meet the moment. We have seen an increase in joy, attendance, and optimism. In a time of changing patterns in church life, Redeemer remains nimble, joyful, teachable, and creative. In this new tender season of regrowth and vitality, we are committed to increasing our capacity for inward and outward ministries, ongoing learning, and love in Christ Jesus here in Springfield and beyond. 

People seated and standing inside a church with wooden pews, chandeliers, and a decorative altar in the background during a service or event.

“What difference does it make if the bread and wine turn into the Body and Blood of Christ and we don't?

 - Godfrey Diekmann, OSB

Purpose

From its founding in 1924, the Church of the Redeemer in Springfield has been a church shaped by the faith, resilience, and vision of its people. Established by individuals and families determined to plant a vibrant Episcopal presence in the growing suburbs of Delaware County, Redeemer began as a mission church committed to meeting the spiritual and sacramental needs of its time.

The first phase of our building was dedicated in 1929, just months before the Great Depression placed tremendous strain on the young congregation. But through it all, a small band of faithful parishioners gave sacrificially-believing, as one early history booklet put it, that the continued life of the parish was "worthwhile to them." This spirit of determined and faithful resilience continues today.