Leadership

Pastors & Staff

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.

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 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

This is my dream job.  I love Children's ministry, Church Planting and Kirkwood and this job gives me the opportunity to do my favorite job in my favorite place.  What could be better?  

  • I describe myself as: determined, curious, problem solver 

  • My family describes me as: creative, nurturing, overcomer 

  • Educational Background

    • Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary

    • Bachelor of Music from Florida State University (that's the Noles not the Gators) 

  • Hometown: Ormond Beach, FL

  • Favorite Kirkwood Hangout: Oh...I can't pick just one...Amigos Cantina with friends or on a date, Kirkwood Library with my kids, YMCA by myself, Kaldis to study or meet a friend for coffee.  

  • Fun Fact: I lived in Bangkok for 2 years and one day an elephant walked into my office and peed on the floor.  I also love to cook Thai food. 

Redemption Kids Director

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

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. 

Ministries Administrator