Calvary Chapel History
In 1965, Pastor Chuck Smith began his ministry at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa with just twenty-five people. From the beginning, Pastor Chuck welcomed all, young and old, without judgment, placing his emphasis on the teaching of the Word of God. His simple, yet sound, expositional biblical approach has helped millions better understand God’s Word.
With a sincere concern for the lost, Pastor Chuck and Kay Smith made room in the church and their home for a generation of hippies and surfers; generating a movement of the Holy Spirit that spread from the West Coast to the East Coast, and now, throughout the world. Pastor Chuck extended his teaching nationally through The Word for Today radio program, as well as internationally over the Internet at CalvaryChapel.com. What began as a small local church has now grown into an international ministry of over 1600 fellowships throughout the world, all in the last 40 years.
With a sincere concern for the lost, Pastor Chuck and Kay Smith made room in the church and their home for a generation of hippies and surfers; generating a movement of the Holy Spirit that spread from the West Coast to the East Coast, and now, throughout the world. Pastor Chuck extended his teaching nationally through The Word for Today radio program, as well as internationally over the Internet at CalvaryChapel.com. What began as a small local church has now grown into an international ministry of over 1600 fellowships throughout the world, all in the last 40 years.
Pastor Chuck went home to be with the Lord on October 3, 2013. Yet, the work that the Holy Spirit started with Pastor Chuck did not end that day; but, continues forth in this generation and the next as people continue to seek Christ, teach His Word and avail themselves to the direction and leading of the Holy Spirit.