Calvary Baptist Church began in September of 1919 as a small congregation of 43 believers became charter members of the West 8th St. Baptist Church in downtown Winston-Salem. In 1923 the name of the church was changed to Calvary Baptist Church and a basement building was constructed.

In July of 1963, 25-year-old Charles Mark Corts accepted the position of Interim Pastor, and in January of 1964, was called as Calvary's thirteenth pastor. Mark Corts led the congregation to begin to plan a church building on the new property which is our current location. Through Dr. Corts' great vision and leadership, we have built a new sanctuary, children's building, Christian Activity Center (CAC), an additional preschool/children's building, an adult education center, scout building and developed the athletic fields. Additional adjacent property was also purchased during this time bringing the total site for facilities, game fields, and parking to 19 acres. (Read more)

During 2001, Dr. Corts called for the formation of a Pastoral Transition Committee to select his successor in view of his planned retirement in 2003. On Sunday, November 17, 2002, Al Gilbert was installed as pastor of the church. Prior to becoming pastor, Al served the International Mission Board (IMB) as Special Assistant to the President. In that role he traveled extensively as spokesman for the IMB to Southern Baptists across the country and around the world.

God continues to draw to himself through Calvary ever increasing numbers of worshippers. Church membership has increased from approximately 125 in 1963 to over 6,100 today.

Calvary Baptist Church is a testimony to what God can accomplish through people of faith -- people excited to bring the love and good news of Christ to their community and throughout the world.

Click here to read a detailed history of Calvary Baptist Church.