Question: Ever wonder how a church evolves from a small gathering to a community beacon? Let’s explore the story of Calvary Baptist Church of Denver. Calvary’s journey began in 1881. Pastor Yerkes founded and incorporated Calvary Baptist Church. He had just left his role as Assistant Pastor of First Baptist Church of Denver. Thirty-two people from First Baptist joined nine local Baptists. This formed the initial group of 41 members. Their first location was at the corner of 27th and Stout Streets.
In 1892, Calvary Baptist Church moved to the northwest corner of Ogden Street and E. 24th Ave. A financial crisis hit in 1894. Members stepped up to save the church. Some sold their possessions including art hardware and livestock. Many of Calvary’s female members earned only $1 a day. They worked overtime to donate extra money. Calvary survived thanks to their dedication.
By 1912, Calvary relocated to 16th Street and Downing. The membership grew significantly. By 1935, Calvary boasted over 1000 members. The choir also grew. It had 85 voices by 1941. In that same year, the “Calvary Church Bulletin” transformed into The Messenger. The name was inspired by the definition of an angel as a “messenger of God.”
Calvary’s growth continued. In 1950, membership reached 1500. The church donated over $360000 to important causes. Then, in 1957, Acting Pastor Rosenberger established the prayer line. He received 500 phone calls daily.
An important moment of unity occurred in 1963. Calvary and Temple Emanuel of Denver came together. They shared a meal at the annual Brotherhood Inter-Faith Dinner at Temple Emanuel. The Denver Post reported a record attendance of 912 people. This dinner led to a pulpit exchange and a lasting interfaith relationship.
The groundbreaking for the Hampden and Monaco location took place in 1965. By 1966, the first worship service was held in the new building. In 1972, Calvary designated the first Sunday of each month for donations. Members and guests brought canned goods for the Denver Inner City Parish. “Launch Sunday”, now “Gathering Sunday”, began in 1974. Education and missions continued to expand. The Calvary east wing and chapel were dedicated in 1979. The church saw its history as a mission. The past taught them to “Spread Our Wings.” The future beckoned “And Now To Fly”.
Calvary made history again in 1993. Rev. Mary Hulst became Calvary’s first female pastor. Rev. Brian Henderson began his tenure in 2008. He led significant renovations. These included the narthex boardroom library and more. He guided the congregation to become welcoming and affirming. In 2011, they officially voted to affirm this stance. Calvary installed its second female senior pastor in 2012. This was Rev. Anne Jernberg Scalfaro. In 2016, the sanctuary underwent a sacred space renewal. A new organ was installed. Calvary welcomes all people as children of God. This includes every background sexual orientation and ability. Calvary Baptist Church keeps sharing God’s love. It is truly a place of grace in action.