About St. Andrew’s
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Celebrating 70 Years | 1956 - 2026
Who We Are
Who We Are
For more than 70 years, St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church has been serving Christ from our home on Crompond Road in Yorktown Heights, NY. We are a community of believers who gather around the Word and Sacraments, seeking to grow together through worship, fellowship, education, and service.
Centered in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, we strive to live with love — expressing forgiveness, joy, acceptance, and praise — while serving the needs of others in our community and beyond.
We are committed to being a welcoming place for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Our History: A Church Family Through the Years
Our History: A Church Family Through the Years
Our Beginnings (1955 – 1960s)
Our Beginnings (1955 – 1960s)
St. Andrew’s began on September 25, 1955, when 215 people gathered for a Lutheran service at the Grange Hall in Yorktown Heights. By April 1956, 142 charter members formally organized the congregation.
Early services were held in a farmhouse under the leadership of Rev. Paul Riss. In December 1957, Rev. Walter P. Scherr was installed as the second pastor, helping guide the young and growing congregation.
As the church expanded, a new sanctuary was built, followed by classrooms, a nursery, and office space. In 1968, St. Andrew’s began participating in a cooperative Vacation Bible School with neighboring churches — a tradition that continues today.
Growth and Expansion (1970s–1990s)
In 1977, Rev. Robert E. Johnson began a nearly 30-year ministry at St. Andrew’s. During this time, the church continued to grow both physically and spiritually.
The parsonage was built, becoming home to the Johnson family, and in 1986, additional space was added, including a fellowship hall, offices, and kitchen.
These years were marked by deep community life and outreach. The congregation:
Served meals at Jan Peek House
Participated in ecumenical Thanksgiving services
Partnered with All Saints Lutheran Church in the Bronx
Supported the Kibeta School in Tanzania
Contributed to the Synod’s Jubilee
The church also welcomed its first Deacon, Tom Farrell, and embraced evolving worship through new hymnals.
A New Chapter (2000s–2016)
A New Chapter (2000s–2016)
In 2008, Rev. Paul T. Johnsen was installed as pastor, beginning a vibrant chapter of renewed ministry and connection. Under his leadership, St. Andrew’s strengthened its programs for youth, women, and men, and continued to grow in faith and fellowship.
Pastor Johnsen retired in July 2016, leaving a lasting legacy of community and care.
Transition and Renewal (2016–Present)
Following Pastor Johnsen’s retirement, Rev. Arden Strasser served as interim pastor, guiding the congregation faithfully during a time of transition.
In September 2017, Pastor Dave Dockweiler was called to serve St. Andrew’s. With experience as both a senior and associate pastor, as well as a youth minister, Pastor Dave brings a heart for growing faith across generations.
Together, we continue to look forward — growing as disciples, strengthening our community, and carrying out God’s mission in the world.
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