How it all started...

Calvary Baptist Church was officially founded on September 12, 1926, beginning with just 63 charter members who initially met under a tent before purchasing a Bell Avenue property for $2,000 to establish the first Baptist church on the north side of Chattanooga. This foundational period was defined by rapid, explosive evangelical growth. Church enrollment expanded eight-fold to 550 members within its first three years and reached 1,015 members by its tenth anniversary in 1936. The church remarkably led the Baptist Association in baptisms for six consecutive years during this foundational decade.

Expanding the vision...

Over the following decades, the church expanded its ministry with a steadfast commitment to its foundational pillars: evangelism, missions, prayer, discipleship, and community. Missions remained central through programs such as Girls in Action, Royal Ambassadors, and the Baptist Training Union. In 1977, the church saw God answer prayers during its move to the current campus. After a bank loan was unexpectedly withdrawn, members raised the needed funds through sacrificial giving and bond sales, saving $30,000. What followed was a 13-year season of spiritual harvest, marked by nearly every service invitation resulting in someone trusting Christ as Savior. This momentum continued into the 21st century with the construction of the Gym and Impact Youth Center in 2004, expanding discipleship opportunities for the next generation, including the creation of Impact Your World Youth Conference in Gatlinburg, TN (2001–2011), which was attended by 1,800+ each year.

Where we are headed...

As Calvary Baptist Red Bank celebrates 100 years of ministry, its focus remains firmly on the future, taking the love of Christ beyond its walls and making a lasting impact in the community. Through large outreach events that welcome thousands of guests each year, the Gospel is intentionally shared with every attendee. Partnerships with local schools and organizations such as Choices Pregnancy Center and Adult & Teen Challenge further extend the church’s reach and service. At the same time, Calvary supports nearly 100 missionaries around the world and takes groups of church members on several mission trips each year, advancing the Gospel both locally and globally. Through discipleship groups, Awana, youth ministries, men's and ladies' Bible studies, and programs for every stage of life, the church remains committed to helping people grow in their faith and follow Christ.

Be a part of our story...

Join us every Sunday as we gather to worship together at 10:15 AM and Wednesdays at 7 PM.