Our Story
1965
Pastor Chuck Smith began his ministry at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa with just 25 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, biblical approach drew 25,000 people weekly.
With a sincere concern for the lost, Pastor Chuck made room in his heart and his 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. What began as a small local church has now grown into an international ministry of over 1,800 fellowships throughout the world.
1999
In 1999, after growing up in a Calvary church, Pastor Tom felt God's call to leave Southern California and come to Springfield, Missouri. He faithfully followed that calling and began pastoring Calvary Chapel Springfield in what was often called "the cute little yellow church on the corner".
Throughout the years, Tom and his wife, Lisa, have seen the faithfulness of the Lord as they planted seed. They continued to welcome all to "come as you are" and diligently study the Word of God. The congregation began to grow in both faith and in number. In 2022, it became clear that Calvary Chapel Springfield had outgrown the "little yellow church on the corner".
today
Calvary Chapel is now located in the heart of Springfield, giving us the opportunity to serve and reach our community in new and meaningful ways. What began in a little yellow chapel has grown into a church family that spans generations, and we are grateful for all that God has done-and continues to do-among us.
Our desire is to be a church that faithfully proclaims the Gospel, makes disciples, and points people to Jesus in every season of life. From children and students to young adults, parents, and grandparents, we have the privilege of watching the Holy Spirit work in hearts and lives across all generations and seasons of life.
We pray that God would continue to use Calvary Chapel to reach our neighbors, serve our community, and bring the hope of Christ to those who need Him. We look forward to seeing how He will continue writing our story.
