Get to Know: Calvary Episcopal Church, Columbia
Columbia, Missouri may best be known as the home of the University of Missouri. But this sprawling college town is also home to more than 120,000 residents -- and only one Episcopal Church.
Calvary Episcopal Church was founded in 1855. It is located in downtown Columbia, just blocks from the Mizzou campus. Built in 1899, the stone church has a bell tower, memorial garden, and plenty of room for Christian education, ministry, and fellowship. Their mission is to be a witness to the grace of God by serving the community with gratitude and generosity as they continue to grow in faith and service to Jesus, the Christ.
After the retirement of the Rev. Knute Jacobson in early 2020, Calvary began the search process for a new rector. The Rev. Valori Mulvey Sherer led the congregation through an interim period, which is nearing its end. The Rev. Susan Kennard is now serving as a supply priest for the parish. The Search Committee is wrapping up its interviews and hopes to send recommendations for their next rector to the Vestry soon.
The Central Missouri parish lists 372 communicants, with an average Sunday attendance of 167. The congregation stays busy serving the community through many outreach activities, including:
- Saturday Cafe - Calvary members make to-go breakfasts every Saturday, July through September, for their neighbors in need.
- Loaves & Fishes - Calvary participates once a month in an ecumenical effort to serve dinners to the unhoused.
- Blessing Box - Neighbors can take what they need, or leave what they can for others.
- Annual St. Nicholas Bazaar - All proceeds from this holiday sale go to community outreach projects.
- Dismantling Racism - A dedicated group at Calvary offers educational opportunities, facilitates conversations, and explores ways to counter racism and its effects in the community.
Along with their outreach work, Senior Warden Bob Worley says the congregation has also been focused on feeding their own flock during the pandemic. They have organized a team of “shepherds” who check in on each other and deliver meals to anyone who might need extra assistance during this difficult time. “I would just hope that we are who we say we want to be,” Bob said. “We want to be the church with smiles on their faces!”
Vital Stats:
Church name: Calvary Episcopal Church
Address: 123 South Ninth Street, Columbia
Phone: 573-449-3194
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.calvaryonninth.org/
- 8 a.m.
- 10:30 a.m.
- 4:30 p.m.
Clergy:
- The Rev. Ann Dieterle, Rector
- The Rev. Beth Simpson, Deacon
Membership: 372
Average Sunday Attendance: 167
Calvary Episcopal Church, Columbia