In 1878, the historic Calvary Baptist Church was built in the heart of the African American community in Wichita, Kansas. For more than 135 years, Calvary Baptist Church has stood as a historic symbol within the Christian community in Wichita, and has served as a beacon of hope leading people to Christ and offering an oasis for fellowship, friendship and spiritual renewal and development.

Known as the oldest Black Baptist Church in the city, Calvary has always been revered as a pillar of the community, and has maintained an enduring history and legacy of faith that has transcended time.

In 1975, the congregation of Calvary moved from Water Street to the current facility at Hillside, leaving the old church that would later be the home of The Kansas African American Museum.

In 2013 Calvary underwent its first major renovation at its current location when it embarked upon an $800,000, renovation and expansion project under the leadership of Rev. T. La Mont Holder. This was part of a five-year plan in which the membership gave in excess of $300,000 in additional pledging during our Lifestyle Stewardship Campaign. The campaign and building project was a success and has allowed Calvary Baptist Church, “The City of Refuge”, to be better positioned to meet the needs of the next generation.

Under Pastor Holder’s leadership, Calvary has experienced consistent, steady and sustainable growth spiritually, numerically and financially. The future of our church under Pastor Holder looks bright and we continue to look for God to do great things in the life of our church ministry. Calvary is currently entering Phase 2 of its Building Project that will complete the renovation of our parking lots, fellowship hall, restrooms and the future expansion of our facilities. Calvary is a church on the move and is poised to be a difference-maker in the community; a church that is “Building God’s kingdom one family at a time.”