Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Calvary Chapel?

Calvary Chapel is a non-denominational Christian association which began in 1965 in Costa Mesa, California. Calvary Chapel’s pastor, Chuck Smith became a leading figure in what has become known as the "Jesus Movement."

For the complete story check out the book Harvest, available in the church bookstore or online here as a PDF. PDF version of Harvest or visit calvarycca.org.

Why Calvary Chapel?

There are many who believe in the gifts and ministry of the Holy Spirit, but they do not have a strong emphasis on Biblical teaching, nor do they look to the Word to guide their experiences with the Holy Spirit. There are many who have a strong emphasis on teaching the Word of God, but they don’t share the view that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are available and valid today.

In Calvary Chapel we find the teaching of the Word, and an open heart to the work of the Holy Spirit. It is this balance that makes Calvary Chapel a distinct and uniquely blessed movement of God.

For more information read the book Calvary Chapel Distinctives. It’s available in the church bookstore or online here as a PDF. PDF version of Calvary Chapel Distinctives

What Can I Expect?

  • We believe that the Word of God should be spiritual. Therefore, we remain flexible so the Holy Spirit may direct our worship. (John 4:24)

  • We believe that the worship of God should be inspirational. Therefore, we give great place to music in our worship. (Psalm 33:1-3)

  • We believe that the worship of God should be intelligent. Therefore, in our services, we emphasize Bible teaching so God may instruct us how He would be worshiped. (Psalm 47:7)

  • We believe the worship of God is fruitful. Therefore, we look for His love in our lives as the greatest evidence that we are truly worshiping Him. (Colossians 1:9-11)

A Word About Our Calvary Chapel Affiliation

We occasionally receive questions about our affiliation with the broader Calvary Chapel movement, and we want to offer a brief clarification.

Calvary Chapel Riverside is affiliated with the Calvary Chapel Association (CCA), rather than the Calvary Global Network (CGN), with which the original Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California, is now associated.

Following the passing of Pastor Chuck Smith in 2013, differences emerged concerning the future direction, leadership, and philosophy of the Calvary Chapel movement. Over time, these differences resulted in two distinct networks of churches.

The Calvary Chapel Association has sought to preserve the foundational principles that characterized Pastor Chuck’s ministry and the original Calvary Chapel movement: verse-by-verse teaching of God’s Word, the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, dependence upon the Holy Spirit, the simplicity of worship, and the autonomy of local churches.

We recognize that there are faithful pastors and wonderful believers within both networks, and we have no desire to foster division or diminish the work God is doing through others.

However, we believe the Calvary Chapel Association most faithfully reflects the biblical convictions and ministry philosophy that Pastor Chuck established and exemplified.

Ultimately, our loyalty is not to an association, a network, or a particular pastor, but to Jesus Christ and the truth of His Word. That remains our commitment here at Calvary Chapel Riverside.