Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church ~ 2402 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel, CA 95073  ~  831.475.6962

Who are we?

Mt. Calvary’s mission is to establish the office of Christian ministry in our midst, to spread the gospel of Jesus in our own community, our nation and throughout the world in obedience to the command of Jesus, to foster Christian education among our children, youth and adults, to foster Christian fellowship and charity, and to encourage growth in Christian stewardship.

Mt. Calvary Ministries

The members of Mt. Calvary work together within our congregation and in our community through the following ministries: Pastoral and Lay Services Christian Education Fellowship Music Community Prayer Sheltering Homeless through Interfaith Satellite Shelter Program Compeer Community House Mt. Cross Partnering with the Community

Pastoral and Lay Services

Support and care is provided by the Pastor and by lay members to our church family in need, including those who are sick, suffering, lonely, or distressed.  The Eucharist is provided to those in special circumstances; for example, if in hospital or, if shut-in, at home.

Christian Education

Mt. Calvary provides Christian education for all our members.   Current educational opportunities: Youth (and Adult) Confirmation Instruction Confirmation instruction is a multi-year discipline of study.  Youth typically begin this process at 6th grade.  Confirmation is also available to adults.  This instruction is based upon Luther’s catechism and explores what it means to be a Christian and a Lutheran.  Adult Bible Classes Bible classes are scheduled throughout the year at times convenient to members who wish to attend.

Fellowship

We come together to enjoy each other’s company; sometimes just for fun, sometimes to work, sometimes to study.  By getting to know each other better we build continuing relationships.  Those who may feel alone or isolated are welcome and may participate at whatever level they are comfortable.  Some of the activities include: Dinner groups Small groups meet in member homes for meals and conversion.  Some meet for Bible Study, some to discuss current projects at Mt. Calvary, and others are just for fun and the sharing of our selves and our lives. Day in the Redwoods This day is held in the Santa Cruz mountains, we spend time together feasting on delicious picnic treats, hiking/sauntering, and learning about our redwood forest from our resident guru, Gene Wright. Spring and Fall Work Party A semi-annual Saturday morning event for purposes of sprucing up the church. It’s a wonderful time to get together, enjoy each other’s company, polish the furniture, wash windows, and maintain our property. Winding of the Green The annual pre-Christmas celebration and greening of the sanctuary.  Each year we cut redwood or fir boughs from the Santa Cruz Mountains then create a beautiful evergreen garland that encircles the sanctuary.  Receptions and Celebrations It’s wonderful to share milestone events.  Ethel Church celebrated her 98th birthday in March 2005.  A group of her Mt. Calvary friends shared the day with her.

Ministry through Music

Musical Tradition Lutheran congregations are steeped in hymnody and musical liturgical traditions.  We utilize a traditional worship as well as more modern worship alternatives. Choir Our choir provides musical offerings for worship services approximately twice a month and for special, seasonal services at various times of the year.  We rehearse weekly, on Wednesday evenings, from 7:00 to 8:30 P.M., fall through spring.  We love to have new voices added to our group.  Choir is open to anyone who enjoys singing.  Please consider this your invitation to join us!

Community Prayer

We have sponsored prayer sessions for the community. This is an informal gathering and is specially designed for community members who may not be comfortable with or familiar with a more church-like setting.

Sheltering Homeless through Interfaith Satellite Shelter Program

Mt. Calvary is a founding member of the Interfaith Satellite Shelter Program (ISSP).  Through this program, individual churches and synagogues share the responsibility for providing shelter for homeless people for given nights of the week.  This service is provided during the coldest months of the years, generally, November through April.

Compeer

The Compeer program is a community mental health program that matches trained volunteers with individuals who are in need of supportive friendships.

Community House

Early in 2005, the Santa Cruz community completed the building of a unique facility for the sheltering of families who have no home.  This facility is designed as a transitional step to provide a safe, temporary residence for families as they get on their feet again.  A number of organizations assisted with furnishing Community House.  Mt. Calvary was pleased to provide the furnishings for one of the guest suites.

Mt. Cross

Mt. Calvary has a long-time association with Mt. Cross.  Mt. Cross is a Lutheran youth summer camp and conference facility located in the redwoods in nearby Felton.  Pastor Abraham is a member of the Board of Directors.

Partnering with the Community

Mt. Calvary is an integral part of our community.  We not only provide a place for people come and find a spiritual home, but also a place to share their lives and their interests.