Pastor

I would like to personally welcome you to St. John's United Church of Christ in Emmaus. St. John's is truly a special place! If you are looking for a church home, I welcome you to worship with us and read about our many ministries on this web site. If you do have the opportunity to worship with us, please introduce yourself to me. I am really interested in meeting you!

Once in a while people ask me, "Why should I become a member?"

...You are a member of God's very own family...and you belong in God's household with every other Christian." Ephesians 2:19

Personal sense of belonging. By choosing to become a member, you are making a conscious choice to identify with ans become part of this church family.

Personal significance. Becoming a member will open up new opportunities for you to serve in significant roles within our church family.

Personal development. By committing yourself to become a member, you will have a greater focus to use and develope your gifts, abilities and serving skills and leadership with our church family.

Personal accountability. By becoming a member of this church, you are committing yourself to a path of spiritual growth, Chrsitian maturity and godly service. Through the relationships you choose to build, you will become more accountable to others in your spiritual journey.

Rev. Dr. Paul W. Knappenberger - Senior Pastor

Dr. Knappenberger began his ministry here at St. John's in April of 2005. He was born and raised in Allentown, PA. He is a 1990 graduate of Lock Haven University and he graduated from Lancaster Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree in 1993. In 2009 he graduated with his Doctor of Ministry degree from Palmer Theological Seminary.

Dr. Knappenberger has previously served two congregations. From 1993-1997 he served in the inner city at Salem United Church of Christ in Harrisburg, PA., and from 1997-2005 he served in a small town at Pennsburg United Church of Christ in Pennsburg, PA.

Dr. Knappenberger does enjoy all aspects of the parish ministry; but he includes preaching and leading worship, missions and church transformation as his passions in ministry. He has served the larger church on all levels and has been involved with several national boards and committees. He has also served on many conference and association committees.

His hobbies include spending time with his family, reading (history and leadership) working out, and following the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies.

Dr. Knappenberger is married to Dr. Kristine Knappenberger who is an optometrist in Allentown. "They have a daughter named Rachel, who is a student studying vocal performance at Indiana University Bloomington.”