AGRM History

Founded in 1913, the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions (AGRM) has been around almost as long as North America’s missions themselves. Missions have a rich history of serving those in greatest need of help and hope with compassion and Christ’s gospel. Read more about their founding and powerful influence:

The Life and Ministry of Jerry McAuley

The fascinating story of the founder of the America’s first rescue mission (McAuley’s mission, founded in 1872, is still an active member of AGRM. We trace our own roots to that ministry’s founding.)

Glasgow City Mission

The pioneer of the urban rescue movement

Time to Reflect and Look Ahead
A perspective from former AGRM Executive Director Stephen Burger about two rescue missions’ notable histories

AGRM was founded in 1913 as the International Union of Gospel Missions. Learn how it grew and who launched it to become the influential association it is today:

IUGM Founding
When and how the association began

Association Founding Fathers
The stories of some of the ministry leaders who had the original vision for a rescue mission association

Historical Timeline
Significant people and events in the association’s nearly 100 years