Our Parish Family
Calvary’s parishioners come from all walks of life and all economic classes. By and large, we are educated people of a variety of ages, backgrounds, politics and philosophies who take an active interest in each other, the church, and the community at large.
Members of the congregation are encouraged to participate in the governance and ministries of the church. A strong committee structure helps to accomplish this. The activities and finances of the parish are overseen by an elected Vestry. Each committee has a Vestry liaison and invites participation from the parish. Regular meetings are publicized in the weekly bulletin and monthly newsletter. Progress and programs are reported at monthly vestry meetings.
Calvary, the Downtown Church
Calvary Episcopal Church, known affectionately in the Santa Cruz community as “The Little Red Church downtown”, is located in downtown Santa Cruz, near theaters, office buildings, restaurants, and stores. Downtown is a thriving business district and a popular gathering place for much of the community. Farmers’ markets and outdoor antique fairs take place regularly in streets and parking lots near the church.
Stewardship
At Calvary we believe that stewardship is a year round responsibility to encourage and acknowledge gratitude and generosity. Our members contribute in many ways to sustain our church community.
- The Fall Pledge campaign each year asks members to financially support the general fund to provide for the staff and operating expenses that make all of our worship and church programs possible. Pledges may be made at any time during the year by going to the Donate button and checking a monthly amount under “General Fund Donation”
- Calvary members share their time through committee work, social activities,and volunteering to complete the many tasks that keep a church community running. See the Events calendar and Crossroads newsletter (click on News above) for opportunities to get involved.
- Members share their talent in both individual and group projects. We have received incredible support in music, technology, gardening, planning, cooking, teaching, drama, community outreach and more, thanks to the skills and interest of many talented volunteers. Look for opportunities to share your talent posted in the Crossroads or Events Calendar.
“We are stewards of God’s love, grace and mercy.”
Please enjoy this series of pictures of the Calvary Community. It starts in October 2019 and goes to October 2020. You will notice a transition in our types of “gatherings” due to the pandemic. The background music is from the archives of the Calvary Choir.