ABOUT CALVARY
Expanding our vision & Extending our outreach
Founded in 1954 by J.R. Speece, Calvary Baptist Church has a rich history rooted in the unwavering truth of God's Word. From its beginning, our church has upheld the authority and infallibility of Scripture, holding fast to the King James Version as the true Word of God. We are an Independent Baptist church that remains faithful to our heritage while being open and welcoming to all people.
Since 1991, our church has flourished under the leadership of Pastor Stephen Pope. With his dedication to the Gospel and a heart for service, Pastor Pope has guided Calvary Baptist Church through tremendous growth and transformation. His vision has inspired us to expand our ministries, deepen our faith, and reach out to our community with the love of Christ.
Our commitment to the Great Commission is reflected in our strong support for missionaries worldwide. With over 60 active ministries, we strive to make a difference both locally and globally, sharing the message of Jesus Christ and extending His love to everyone we meet.
Whether you are looking for a church home, seeking spiritual growth, or simply curious about what we believe, we invite you to join us at Calvary Baptist Church. Come and experience a place where faith, love, and the Word of God are central to everything we do.
OUR
HISTORY
Rev. Dr. James Roy “J.R.” Speece (1933–2024) was the founding pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, establishing the church in 1958 with a deep commitment to the Gospel and the authority of God’s Word. Raised in Northern Iredell County, he accepted Christ at a young age and later served in the United States Marine Corps, where he sensed God’s call to preach.
After his military service, Dr. Speece pursued theological training and faithfully led Calvary Baptist Church for 20 years, laying a strong spiritual foundation that continues to impact the church today. Throughout his life, he remained dedicated to ministry, pastoring multiple churches, earning advanced theological degrees, and serving his community in numerous leadership roles.
Dr. Speece’s legacy is one of faithful service, steadfast faith, and a lifelong commitment to sharing the message of Jesus Christ. In honor of his lasting impact, our previous sanctuary was named the Speece Life Center, serving as a tribute to the foundation he helped build and the many lives he influenced.
OUR
PASTOR
Stephen Pope began preaching at the age of 21 and has faithfully served as the pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Union Grove, North Carolina, for more than 33 years. He studied at Hyles-Anderson College and Andersonville Theological Seminary, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Theology
