Christ Our Redeemer F. W. Baptist Church

A beacon of faith. This is the story of Christ Our Redeemer F. W. Baptist Church in Philadelphia. On a September day in 1966, Reverend Joseph T. Kirkland and nine others envisioned a sanctuary. A place for worship and community. They named it “Church of the Redeemer (Baptist).” Christ Our Redeemer F. W. Baptist Church stood at the corner of 24th and Dickinson Street for 53 years. Reverend Kirkland led the congregation for sixteen years until his passing in 1982. Christ Our Redeemer F. W. Baptist Church has a rich history of service. The church has offered summer programs for youth and renovated homes for families in need. They established the Redeemer Federal Credit Union to support members financially. Over 45 ministries have been initiated within the church’s walls. The church’s commitment extended to constructing the Redeemer Christian Life & Education Center (RCLEC). This 2.5 million dollar project served as a hub for church and community activities. It even housed a Christian learning institution. Christ Our Redeemer F. W. Baptist Church saw its membership grow from 177 to over 1,950. They acquired a city block of land on Dickinson and Reed Streets for future expansion. In 2006, they established the Redeemer Institute for Christian Education (R.I.C.E.), an ETA-certified biblical institution. They licensed and ordained ministers, further spreading their message. The church partnered with Nationalities Services Center, the PA Horticultural Society, and the Point Breeze communities. Together they cultivated a community garden on the church’s property at 2500 Reed Street. Christ Our Redeemer F. W. Baptist Church also embraced technology. Their media ministries used advanced tools to share their message globally. Through trials and transitions, Christ Our Redeemer F. W. Baptist Church remained a steadfast presence in the community. Their journey reflects a deep commitment to faith and service.