LEADERSHIP

At Redemption, we are "find a better way" people. Our staff exists to "find a better way" to help the people of Kirkwood and the surrounding areas to meet, know, and live for Jesus. Our roles and responsibilities vary, but our mission is the same. Each of the faces below represents many unseen volunteers doing the behind-the-scenes work to make your experience at Redemption excellent.

Pastors and Staff

Cory Ball

Lead Pastor
Hi, I’m Cory Ball, the founding pastor of Redemption Community Church. I’m blessed to be married to my amazing wife, Allison, and we share our home with our beautiful daughter Ansley and our dog Brutus. I love hobbies and I’ve even turned my hobby of leatherwork into a small business. I’m passionate about the outdoors—whether it’s hunting or fishing or hiking with Allison and Brutus, I am all in with anything outside. (Except camping… we conquered the outdoors with the invention of the modern mattress and AC… why subject ourselves to sleeping on the ground in a puddle of sweat?) My life verse is Luke 9:62; “But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.”” This verse has shaped my life and shapes the spirit of our church as we stay focused on God’s mission and what lies ahead.
Graham Behnke

Redemption Kids Director
I’ve had a heart for church planting since my seminary days, and it’s been a blessing to be part of three church plants over the years. Serving the families at Redemption is a joy and a calling I’m deeply grateful for. I would describe myself as determined, curious, and a natural problem solver, while my family would probably say I’m creative, nurturing, and an overcomer. I earned a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Music from Florida State University. Originally from Ormond Beach, I now love life in Kirkwood, where my husband and I are raising our four kids. We joke that our favorite Kirkwood hangout is actually our house — complete with the white picket fence dream and my parents living next door. One of the most formative seasons of my life was living in Bangkok for two years as a missionary, where I started a children’s Bible club called Joy Kids that is still active today. I also still love cooking Thai food whenever I get the chance.
PJ Johnson

Worship Director
Hello! My name is PJ Johnson, and I’m honored to serve as the Worship Director here at Redemption. For over 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of playing in worship bands and leading people in musical worship, particularly on the piano. Music has always been a powerful way for me to express my love for God and my belief in His redemptive work in our lives, and I’m humbled to be part of a church where this is such a central focus.
I’m married to my awesome wife, Jillian, and together we have a wonderful son, Walter and a sweet dog, Bruce. We’re truly excited to be part of this incredible community, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such talented and passionate people here at Redemption. God has done amazing things in my life, and I look forward to seeing how He continues to move in and through this church as we worship Him together.
I can’t wait to see what God has ahead for all of us!
Michael Pippin

Ministries Administrator
I have been a pastor, teacher, and administrator for over 20 years. From teaching pastors overseas to helping the needy here to building a church budget, I love to serve. I have been married to my spectacular wife and high school sweetheart, Kelly, for 22+ years and have three wonderful bio kids. When you meet me, you will have to ask how many kids I have because, as a foster parent, it changes regularly! I have Bachelors of Music education, a Masters of Administration, and will soon be completing a Masters of Biblical Studies.
Rachel Barr

Marketing and Event Coordinator
Same with this one - don't modify the wording very much. Hi there! I'm Rachel, and I love bringing people together through food and conversation. If there's a good basketball or football game on in the background, then I'm really set.
I'm mostly a type B personality, unless it comes to planning events, vacations, or really any opportunity to have fun or be social. Then my husband calls me "the Director of Fun,” and I can make some serious itineraries or go all out on the details. Getting to be the Director of Fun, (aka events and marketing) at Redemption is the best because I love this community, and I want others to experience the joy of real relationships with God and His people. My husband, Jaden, and I have a go-getter baby girl, Palmer, and our littlest buddy, Baker! In our free time, you’ll most likely find my family outside - taking walks, riding bikes, playing golf, or finding something to compete at (in a mostly friendly way).