Deep within Falls Church, Virginia, stands a testament to faith. It is a place where community bonds have strengthened for decades. This is Knox Presbyterian Church.
Knox Presbyterian Church’s story began in December 1947. The Presbytery of Washington City acquired land at Allen Street and Arlington Boulevard. The land came from Eakin Properties. The developer donated it as a goodwill gesture.
A mission was established. Christians gathered hoping to form a church. Sunday School started October 8, 1950. Classes were held at Graham Road Elementary School. Worship services followed on November 12, 1950. Dr. Ralph Merker led the service.
Knox Presbyterian Church officially organized January 7, 1951. Forty-two charter members joined. Plans quickly started to build a church. Worship continued at Graham Road School.
Reverend Leonardo John Testa became Knox Presbyterian Church’s first pastor. He was installed January 13, 1952. In March 1952, services moved to the Jefferson Theater. Sunday School remained at Graham Road School.
The new church building was dedicated March 22, 1953. It was intended as a Fellowship Hall with Sunday School rooms. Folding chairs served as pews. Sunday school moved from Graham Road School.
Reverend Testa departed in February 1958. A Pulpit Committee searched for a replacement. Dr. Donald A. Upton filled the pulpit. Carl E. Ericson, a seminary student and former Associated Press photographer, spoke once.
The congregation called Carl Ericson to be the next pastor. He was ordained June 14, 1959. Reverend Ericson guided the building of a Sanctuary.
Did you know the church building and furnishings cost $173,118.74 in 1963? The mortgage was $142,000 at 5.75% interest. It was retired in December 1983.
Elder Robert Philleo, a civil engineer, led the Building Committee. The new Sanctuary was dedicated March 3, 1963. The committee met 37 times.
Reverend John McFarlane was Associate Pastor from 1963 to 1966. Reverend Ericson left in 1967 to establish a congregation in Illinois. Reverend Douglas T. Ibach became the third pastor on November 5, 1967.
During Reverend Ibach’s time, the Board of Deacons dissolved. The Session took over their functions. It increased from twelve to sixteen members.
Reverend Ibach left in 1972. Reverend John McLaren became Interim Pastor. Reverend Gary Pinder assisted as Moderator of the Session.
Reverend Robert T. Jones became the fourth pastor September 19, 1973. The Session size reduced to twelve members. Renovations included a parlor, ceiling refurbishment, and kitchen upgrades.
Reverend Jones retired in June 1988. Reverend Arthur L. Stanley served as interim pastor. On March 15, 1990, Reverend William V. Hale became the fifth pastor.
Knox Tone Chimes Choir began in the early 1990s. It evolved into an adult group. Nick Snow directs the choir.
Today, Knox Presbyterian Church stands as a beacon. It is a place of worship and community. Its rich history echoes through its halls. It invites all to share in its enduring spirit.