Christ Church began in 1954, holding its first worship service at a nearby elementary school. Dr. Katherine Lechnar, a retired missionary, donated three acres of land at 35th and Harvard, where the church would eventually build its permanent home. Rev. Wilson B. Schultz served as the first pastor, and the original church building was completed in 1955.
As Tulsa expanded southward, Christ Church grew alongside the surrounding community. Under the leadership of pastors including Rev. George Graham, Rev. Charles Wells, and Dr. Winfred McBride, the church established itself as a welcoming place for young families and began construction on the sanctuary that still serves as the heart of the campus today.
In 1969, Dr. Robert D. Pierson was appointed senior pastor. During his 37 years of leadership, Christ Church experienced significant growth in both ministry and outreach. New programs focused on counseling, discipleship, children, youth, and community care were established, including the Early Learning Center, singles and divorce recovery ministries, and mission partnerships both locally and internationally. During this time, the Family Life Center was built, the sanctuary expanded, and Christ Church became known for practical ministries that served people in every stage of life.
In the 1990s, Christ Church added contemporary worship alongside its traditional service and continued expanding ministries that cared for the community through tutoring programs, housing partnerships, mission work, and outreach initiatives. Throughout its history, Christ Church has sought to respond faithfully to the needs of both Midtown Tulsa and the wider world.
In 2006, Rev. Bob Feist became senior pastor and faithfully led Christ Church for nearly two decades. Under Pastor Bob’s leadership, the church strengthened its commitment to hospitality, discipleship, worship, and community ministry through programs such as Stephen Ministry, Family Promise, community breakfasts, homeless outreach, Upward Basketball, and many local and global mission partnerships. His leadership helped guide Christ Church through seasons of growth, renewal, and transition while continuing the church’s longstanding commitment to sharing the love of Christ in practical ways.
In 2023, Rev. Aaron Tiger joined Christ Church as associate pastor, serving alongside Pastor Bob before becoming lead pastor in May 2025. Today, Christ Church continues to build on its strong foundation while embracing a renewed vision for the future. Under Pastor Aaron’s leadership, the church is focused on four key initiatives: becoming Midtown’s Best Neighbor, reaching the next generation, honoring our discipleship commitments, and developing a culture of welcome and invitation.
More than seventy years after its founding, Christ Church remains committed to making disciples of Jesus Christ, changing lives, and transforming our world through worship, service, generosity, and community.