CELEBRATING 125 YEARS

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Since 1900, Calvary Lutheran has been “Sharing God’s Grace” in Downtown Chillicothe, Ohio.  The congregation began meeting in the summer of 1899 for English-language worship services.  On Easter Sunday, April 15, 1900, the congregation had its first communion service and the following day adopted its constitution and the name Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church.   In February 1902, the congregation bought four lots on West Main Street.  In January 1904, Calvary approved plans for a “good brick finished church” at a cost of around $3000.  The cornerstone of that brick church was laid in September of that year and the building was dedicated on June 5, 1904.  The original building remains part of our current structure as our Chapel, used for classes, smaller worship services, and special events. 

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A survey of the congregation in 1949 indicated that one-third of the members lived within a mile of the church, another third within two miles, and the balance of the congregation lived further than two miles.  The early 1950s brought conversation about whether to relocate or remain downtown.  The decision to remain led to the groundbreaking of another building on the site on May 22, 1955.  The Christian Education Building was dedicated on Dec. 2, 1956.

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Again in the 1990s, Calvary was faced with the options of remaining downtown and expanding its facilities for a growing congregation or relocating.  On Reformation Sunday in October 2001, ground was broken for an expansion.  The expansion provided modern offices, a conference room, a kitchen and connected the free-standing Christian Education building.  On Palm Sunday, April 4, 2004, the congregation processed from the original sanctuary to the new, larger sanctuary.  Like the original sanctuary, the current worship space features beautiful stained-glass artwork, including a magnificent cross window and side windows featuring the "I AM" teachings of Jesus.   

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Throughout 2025, we celebrate the 125th Anniversary of Calvary Lutheran with special events, guests, and many opportunities for "Sharing God's Grace."  We invite you to be a part of the celebration!