In 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 draws 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 1,500 fellowships throughout the world.
For a more in-depth look at the history of Calvary Chapel, we recommend reading The Reproducers. You can download a free digital copy as a PDF here or ePub here.
You can also visit Calvary Chapel Association for more information about and/or to locate other Calvary Chapel churches.
Calvary Chapel Ridgecrest began as a home bible study in 1980. In the first Sunday in October, Pastor Glenn shared his first Sunday morning message.
In 1982 we officially incorporated with the state of California as a church.
There were approximately 25 people as of the first Sunday in October, and today counting children and adults there can be up to 400 in attendance on Sunday Mornings.
Visit our Videos page for a Video highlighting the first 35 years of Calvary Chapel Ridgecrest