Calvary Baptist Church (Midland, Ontario)

Calvary Baptist Church is a Canadian nonprofit religious organization located in Midland, Ontario. Established in 1874, the church has a longstanding history serving the spiritual and community needs of its congregation and the wider Midland area.

History and Location

Founded in 1874, Calvary Baptist Church’s current building was constructed in 1977. The church is situated at 598 King Street in Midland, offering accessible entry via an upper parking lot ramp. It continues to be a prominent place of worship and community gathering in the region[1][2].

Mission and Vision

The mission of Calvary Baptist Church is rooted in the Great Commission from the Bible: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). The church aims to become fully devoted and equipped followers of Jesus Christ who lead others into a life-transforming relationship with the Lord. Their core values emphasize practising and demonstrating "Faith, Hope and Love" based on 1 Corinthians 13:13[1].

Leadership and Governance

Pastor Keith Thompson and his wife Wendy have been leading the church since April 2023. The prior pastor, Cliff Rummenie, served for 19 years and continues to contribute through inspirational videos available on their YouTube channel. Leadership at Calvary Baptist is managed by an Executive Council with four main ministries:

• Worship and Pastoral Care Ministry
• Stewardship, Finance, and Property Ministry
• Christian Education Ministry
• Mission and Outreach Ministry

All leaders undergo police record checks to ensure trustworthy stewardship of the church’s mission and resources[1][2].

Community Engagement and Programs

Calvary Baptist Church hosts weekly Sunday worship services at 10 a.m., welcoming all attendees. Beyond Sunday services, the church offers weekday prayer meetings and small group Bible studies to foster spiritual growth and community connection. They maintain an active online presence by live-streaming services and events on their YouTube channel, allowing remote participation[1][2][3].

The church practices believer’s baptism upon personal confession of faith and maintains open membership for baptized individuals from other Christian denominations who demonstrate active faith and participation. Congregational business meetings are held as needed, with adherents participating in non-religious decision-making processes through voting rights. Funding for church operations comes from voluntary tithes, gifts, and offerings, with regular financial transparency and tax receipts provided to contributors[2].

Affiliations

Calvary Baptist Church is affiliated with several regional and provincial Baptist organizations, including:

• Georgian Bay Association of Baptist Churches
• Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec
• Huronia District Ministerial Association

These affiliations support the church in its mission and provide connections to wider Baptist and Christian communities[2].

Calvary Baptist Church continues to serve as a spiritual hub in Midland, Ontario, offering worship, education, and outreach grounded in Baptist Christian faith and traditions.