Stepping onto the manicured lawn of St. Christopher’s Church, a sense of quiet peace descends. It’s a hidden gem in the bustling suburbs of Gladwyne, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1949, St. Christopher’s Church is a stunning testament to both faith and community. The idea of a church in Gladwyne was born from the vision of the Rev. Dr. Gibson Bell, the rector of nearby All Saints Church. He saw the potential of a thriving Episcopal community amidst the increasing population of this burgeoning suburb.
St. Christopher’s Church is steeped in history. The namesake of the church, St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers, was a tribute to Amelia Earhart, a first cousin of one of the church’s founders, Wan Balis. This connection adds an air of adventure and intrigue to the church’s history. The church itself was built with the help of a bequest from the Goodbread family, who had requested that a stone church be built in Lower Merion Township. After a thorough survey of the Gladwyne community, the founders raised the $12,000 needed to purchase the four acres of land that the church stands on today.
The church embodies the warmth and community spirit of its parishioners. The founders, prominent Gladwyne residents, were instrumental in shaping the identity of the church. The church was designed by the Philadelphia firm of Kneedler, Myrick and Zantzinger, and the first service was held on Christmas Eve 1950. From the early days, St. Christopher’s Church has been a beloved landmark, a welcoming space for gatherings, Sunday school classes and social events. Over the years, many of its rectors have left an indelible mark on the congregation. The Reverend Robert Q. Kennaugh, the church’s first rector, was known for his famous barbecues, a tradition that cemented the church as a hub of community.
With its history intertwined with the growth of the suburbs of Philadelphia, St. Christopher’s Church is a story of faith, community, and the enduring spirit of a place where people come together to celebrate life and find solace in the warmth of shared experiences.