Pastor John R Graebner

Again, the Rev. Stoeppelworth served as vacancy pastor. The Rev. John R. Graebner of Hilliards, Ohio, accepted the call of Redeemer on February 13, 1911, and was soon after installed. He was scholarly preacher, a conscientious and faithful pastor, and a splendid musician. He did much to make the church music more beautiful and meaningful. He was also instrumental in encouraging the growth of mission work in the city, having organized a regular Sunday School in what was then called the Detension Home for Girls. He also held Sunday School and services at the Irene Byron Hospital. Under his care the Lord's work progressed.

On Thursday, April 25, 1920, the first steps were taken towards the erection of a much needed new house of worship, when sixty-five voters assembled and went on record as favoring the project. The idea of leaving the downtown spot and moving out to the recently developed Harrison Hill district grew out of the proposal to establish a Sunday School in that new part of the city. If a Sunday School was needed, why not a church? To some members this was an earth-shattering idea, and it was only natural that, along with the great enthusiasm of some, there was the strong reluctance and even opposition of others. The plans went forward, and on December 11, 1921, the trustees were instructed to take steps to acquire property at the corner of Rudisill and Harrison Streets. The purchase was consummated in the early spring, 1922, and in November of that year the Fulton Street property was satisfactorily sold. But the stress of these eventful months had taken its toll, for Pastor Graebner felt constrained to offer his resignation to the congregation in 1923. He was sorrowfully released. Later he accepted a pastorate in Wausau, Wisconsin.