A Word About Calvary Chapel Affiliation

Our Position on Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa

There has been considerable discussion following Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa’s recent announcement that they ordain women to pastoral ministry. While this has raised questions about Calvary Chapel’s identity and direction, I think a few things are important to clarify.

First, Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa does not represent or provide leadership for the Calvary Chapel movement. That responsibility belongs to the Calvary Chapel Association (CCA). Costa Mesa has not been affiliated with CCA for nearly a decade, nor is it currently affiliated with the Calvary Chapel Global Network (CGN).

Second, while Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa owns the Calvary Chapel name and trademarked dove logo, that does not mean its current convictions and practices represent the historic distinctives established by Pastor Chuck Smith.

As for us at Engage Calvary, our position remains unchanged. We hold to the traditional complementarian understanding of men and women in the church. Men and women are equally valuable in Christ, equally gifted by the Holy Spirit, and both have important roles in the ministry of the church.

However, Scripture establishes a distinction in the qualifications and responsibilities of pastoral leadership. We believe the office of pastor/elder is reserved for qualified men, as clearly outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1–2 and Titus 1:6–7, consistent with Paul's instruction in 1 Timothy 2:12–13.

We recognize that other churches may arrive at different theological conclusions, but this is what we believe Scripture teaches, and this is where we stand.

I am grateful for our brothers in the Calvary Chapel Association who continue to love God's Word, faithfully preach the gospel of grace, and seek to make disciples. I see no reason for us to abandon the name "Calvary Chapel" because of the direction one congregation has chosen to take.

Our commitment is to Christ, His Word, and the faithful preaching of the gospel. To God alone be the glory.