Was it the welcoming spirit that drew you in? The Church of Our Redeemer stands before you a testament to faith and community. This isn’t just any church. It’s a place steeped in history. Established as a mission in 1884 it became a parish just a year later. Construction began almost immediately.
The first Church of Our Redeemer was consecrated in 1887 a modest building on the corner of Meriam and Oakland Streets. But Lexington boomed after World War II. The congregation grew too large for its small home. Years of fundraising led to the purchase of new land in 1954 across from the original church. A larger more spacious church was dedicated in 1957. The original building was sold to the Greek Orthodox Church of Lexington. It became St Nicholas’ Church.
The Church of Our Redeemer wasn’t merely a place of worship. It was a hub for community involvement. Parishioners actively participated in projects such as the Heifer Project International and Rosie’s Place. They even aided in the Lexington Cambodian Resettlement. This outward focus continued. The church hosted Lexington’s Interfaith Food Pantry. Members tended the Interfaith Garden. They undertook service trips to Honduras. They provided meals to Bristol Lodge in Waltham.
The Church of Our Redeemer also saw its share of leadership changes. Reverend Ted Petterson strengthened its connection to the world. Lay leadership thrived. The church engaged in dialogues with Temple Isaiah. It provided food and clothing aid to St Stephen’s in Lynn. The Youth Group even ran a food stand to raise money for mission work. Alcoholics Anonymous and the Lexington Council on Aging used the church’s facilities.
Reverend Alden B Flanders became rector in 1985. The congregation became more diverse and inclusive. The 1980s brought a decline in mainline church attendance but Redeemer adapted. New families with children joined. Lexington Playcare expanded into the parish house bringing joyful activity to the community.
The Church of Our Redeemer has seen its fair share of challenges. It weathered the pandemic. It navigated leadership transitions. The current rector Reverend Megan Carr Holding is the latest leader in a long line. She is committed to faith social justice and collaboration. The Church of Our Redeemer continues its journey. It remains a vibrant and welcoming community. Its history is a testament to its enduring spirit. Its future is bright full of promise and service. Look closely. See the echoes of the past. Feel the warmth of the present. This is the Church of Our Redeemer.