Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I take communion if I'm not a member or a Baptist?
2. Do I have to be baptized again by immersion to become a member?
3. How will I find out what I'm supposed to believe?
4. How are American Baptists different from Southern Baptists?
5. What am I expected to give to the church?
6. What does it take to become a member?
7. How can I serve at Calvary Baptist Church?
8. What kind of opportunities are there to get to know other members?

1. Can I take communion if I'm not a member or a Baptist?
We practice open membership and communion. Everyone who loves Christ is invited to the table.

2. Do I have to be baptized again by immersion to become a member?
We recognize baptism from other traditions.

3. How will I find out what I'm supposed to believe?
At Calvary Baptist Church, you will enjoy the distinctly Baptist freedom to plot your own faith journey. Small group Bible study and Adult church school classes offer opportunities to learn from others as you formulate your own beliefs. The pastors are always available to listen and discuss faith issues.

4. How are American Baptists different from Southern Baptists?
The short answer is that American Baptists are ecumenical, welcome diversity, encourage gender equality, including the ordination of women, and are more moderate in their interpretation of scripture. For specific American Baptist beliefs, click here.

5. What am I expected to give to the church?
God calls us to give freely of our time, talent and treasure. Members and regular attenders respond to that call by giving not only of our financial resources, but also our time and expertise in furthering the goals and objectives of this faith community. Calvary Baptist Church is responsible for its own finances, and our members' giving funds our annual budget. We are also a tithing church, with many of our members following the Biblical directive of returning a tenth of their resources to God. However, all giving is based on individual choice and is completely confidential.

6. What does it take to become a member?
There are only two qualifications for membership: a professed faith in Jesus Christ and an interest in becoming part of this faith community. Once our pastoral staff is aware of your interest, you will be asked attend a Sunday evening Explorer's Class. This gives you an opportunity to meet in a small group setting with Calvary's senior pastor and other members of our pastoral staff to learn about Calvary and how members find welcome and nurture as they worship and serve here. This is also an opportunity to ask questions that will determine if Calvary is a good fit for you. The additional step to membership is a response to the invitation and coming forward in Sunday morning worship.

7. How can I serve at Calvary Baptist Church?
Calvary is both big enough to offer a depth of opportunity for service and small enough to need every member's contribution of time and talent. From simple tasks that can be completed in one day to year-long teaching and learning opportunities to lifelong contributions to music, mission or education, there is a place for you at Calvary. For specific programs that may be of interest, visit Find your niche.

8. What kind of opportunities are there to get to know other members?
Small group ministry is at the heart of Calvary's outreach to its members and to the community at large. Our church school program for children and adults is the connection point for many. Other opportunities include family retreats, seasonal dinners and celebrations, musical groups, Bible study groups, women's and men's spirituality programs, local and global mission outreach groups and more. For specific opportunities, visit Find your niche, read Calvary's Messenger newsletter online or check for announcements in the worship bulletin on Sunday mornings.