Garry Knaebel

Garry L. Knaebel was born and raised in Royal Oak, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. His spiritual journey began early, shaped by the ministry of Dr. David D. Allen at Calvary Baptist Church in Hazel Park, where he professed his faith in Christ. During his senior year of high school, Garry felt a strong calling to serve the Lord in a full-time capacity. This led him to enroll at William Tyndale College, where he initially explored missionary aviation before sensing a deeper pull toward pastoral ministry. His studies introduced him to the Reformed faith, and he continued his theological training at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia. After graduating, Garry had the privilege of interning under Dr. James Montgomery Boice at Philadelphia’s 10th Presbyterian Church, a pivotal experience in his development as a pastor.

In 1982, after completing ordination requirements for the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), Garry accepted his first call to serve at Grace Presbyterian Church in Hancock, MD, and then as an Assistant Pastor at Pilgrim Presbyterian Church in Martinsburg, WV. His pastoral journey took a significant turn when he was asked to plant a new church in Hagerstown, MD. Garry led the formation of Grace Reformed Fellowship, which grew under his guidance and eventually called him as its first pastor in 1992, a position he has faithfully held ever since.

Garry married his wife, whom he met during their time at Calvary Baptist Church, in 1978, two years into his seminary studies. Together, they raised three children, all of whom walk with the Lord, and they now enjoy the blessings of several grandchildren.