What Is Calvary?
Calvary is the name of the hill on which Jesus Christ was crucified.
Its name is translated into Greek as "Golgotha", or "Place of the Skull".
Situated just outside of Jerusalem, Calvary was a constant reminder to the
people that death was a final, terrible, and all-too-near thing. This terrible
place of suffering, however, became a beacon of hope for the world as Jesus'
death paid the penalty for the sin of all mankind, giving those who trust Him
as Savior and Lord the hope of eternal life. This hope is exactly what Calvary
Baptist Church is about. We are a close-knit, loving family of Christians working
together to change our homes, community, and world with the hope found in Jesus
Christ: the hope that was made possible at Calvary.
Spiritual Leadership
Calvary has a long history of spiritual leadership in its Pastoral staff. From our earliest days,
our pastors have encouraged us to love one another and work together as a family to build the
Kingdom of God. Under their leadership, our people have reached out to our community, answered the
call to foreign missions, and stepped into leadership roles of their own. This tradition continues
today. Supported by a motivated administrative staff, a prayer-filled deacon board, and the
encouragement of our members, Dr. Donnie Lovette continues to set an example for us to
follow–an example that draws us closer to Jesus as believers and to one another as a
family–so that we can keep building the Kingdom of God.
Dr. Donnie Lovette
Senior Pastor
Dr. Donnie Lovette serves as Senior Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church and Band Director for Calvary Christian School. A graduate of Catawba College with advanced degrees from UNC Charlotte and Luther Rice University, Dr. Lovette brings decades of pastoral experience — including service at churches across North Carolina and South Carolina — as well as a deep background in Christian education and music ministry. He and his wife, Bonita, have four children.
A Loving Family
At Calvary, we take the Lord's commandment to "love one another" (John 13:34) seriously.
We are known as one of the "friendliest churches anywhere" by many of our visitors, and
we strive to live up to this reputation. Fellowships, Bible studies, and small group
gatherings are great avenues to find support and encouragement, and see the love of
Jesus on display. Most importantly, Calvary is a family: we care about one another and
do our best to support and encourage one another every day. Come join us for any of our
services and events: we look forward to meeting you!
A Rich Heritage
Ever since its founding in 1886, Calvary has taken an active role in the local Christian
community. Organized by a small group of men meeting for Bible study above an old
department store, Calvary grew into a large, influential body which has seen a wide
variety of leadership, ordained hundreds of ministers, and preached the Gospel to untold
thousands of people both locally and around the world. Visit our Virtual Museum to learn
more about our remarkable heritage.
Something For Everyone
No matter who you are, no matter what talents you have, there is something for you to do
at Calvary! The Lord has gifted our people in every category of service: enjoy working
outside? We have a place for you to serve! Do you enjoy helping others? We have a place for
you to serve! Whether it's food, music, technology, teaching, giving, praying, service,
working with your hands, or encouraging others through song, there is a place for you to
serve the Lord here at Calvary!
Music
Teaching
Service
Outreach
Calvary doesn't just have great programs for children at church, we also have an excellent
private school! Since 1991, Calvary Christian School (CCS) has been giving children a great,
affordable Christian education that not only trains them for higher education, but also for a
rewarding spiritual life. Call us today to set up a tour and see the great things going on at
Calvary Christian School!
So, What Is Calvary Baptist Church?
Calvary Baptist Church is a family of Christians living out the message of
Calvary found in 1 Corinthians 15:3,4: that "Christ died for our sins according
to the scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again on the third
day according to the Scriptures." We do this by following His commandments to
"Love one another" (John 13:34), let our "light...shine before men" (Matthew 5:16),
and "Go...and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19).
But what can Calvary Baptist Church mean to you? We invite you, as Jesus invited His disciples long ago, to "Come and see" (John 1:39).
But what can Calvary Baptist Church mean to you? We invite you, as Jesus invited His disciples long ago, to "Come and see" (John 1:39).