Redemption was originally called Friendship Baptist Church, birthed in 1985 out of Lugoff First Baptist. Around the turn of the century, God began to slowly transform Friendship into a church with a greater heart for our neighbors and the nations.
As a cooperating partner of the Southern Baptist Convention, we are Great Commission Baptists who are committed to the gospel above all else. In 2023, we changed our name to Redemption Church to better reflect our gospel identity (Eph. 1:7-8) and passion. Today, we are a church that is growing more and more committed to Christ, to one another, and to our mission of taking the good news of God's grace into all the world. We are normal, everyday people who have found joy, peace, and purpose in a relationship with Jesus Christ, and we would love to help others experience their own redemption story.
Regardless of your church background, your personal history, or your current situation, you are welcome at Redemption!
Redemption is a church that is gospel-centered in doctrine and culture. Our beliefs are mainstream, biblical, and Jesus-focused. We are comprised of people from many different denominations and backgrounds, and everyone belongs because we keep Jesus first.
We believe the Bible is God’s Word, and is the ultimate source of truth & life. It is also our primary governing document, and we look to it as our guide in all things. We accept the Baptist Faith & Message 2000 as our Articles of Faith, believing it to be a doctrinal statement in alignment with the teachings of Scripture. Our core beliefs are also founded upon historic creeds like the Apostles Creed and Nicene Creed.
We use two statements to help give us direction as a church. Our Vision gives us a picture of our preferred future, our destination that guides us forward. Our Mission keeps us on track, defining why we exist.
Our Vision is to be a local church with global impact by reproducing disciples, leaders, and churches.
Our Mission is to lead others to full life in Christ, community, and mission.
We believe God calls every one of us to a daily life of ministry, yet He also places spiritual leaders within the church to lead & equip His people for the work of ministry (Eph. 4:11-14). Redemption functions as a Jesus-ruled, Elder-led, Congregationally-affirmed church. Jesus is our Chief Shepherd, the head of His body, the Church. Elders guide and govern the church. Deacons assist the Elders and serve the body. Ministry Team Leaders and Staff assist in carrying out the work of ministry.
Regarding Elders: We are led by a plurality of Elders with a Lead Pastor serving as “first among equals.” Our current Lead Pastor, Andrew Tate, has been on staff since 2019 and is the fifth Lead Pastor in the history of our church.
