Calvary Church: Recent Episodes
Calvary Church
This weekly podcast comes from Calvary Church, a contemporary church in the East Suburbs of Pittsburgh. Come visit us on a Sunday and you'll experience a warm, inviting environment where a live band leads us in worshiping God, and a culturally relevant, biblical message from our pastor.
In this message, we explore 2 Corinthians 10:3–5 and the call to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ. It reminds us that not every thought deserves a second listen, especially the ones that distort truth and steal peace.
We’re challenged to recognize and reject broken thought patterns that don’t align with God’s Word. As we do, we learn to replace them with truth that builds faith and strengthens our minds.
What you listen to repeatedly will eventually shape how you live.
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Soundtracks series.
In this message, we explore Psalm 139:23–24 and Romans 8:5–6, focusing on the thoughts and patterns that shape our inner life. It reminds us that we can’t change what we don’t first notice—awareness is the starting point for transformation.
We’re invited to ask God to search our hearts and reveal the “soundtracks” running in our minds. As we become aware of them, we can begin to realign our thinking with the Spirit and His truth.
What shapes your mind will shape your life.
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Soundtracks series.
In this message, we explore Matthew 16:24–26 and Jesus’ call to take up our cross and follow Him. It’s a reminder that following Jesus isn’t half-hearted—it requires a full surrender of our plans, comfort, and control.
We’re challenged to consider what it truly means to go “all in” with Christ. When we lose our life for His sake, we actually discover the life we were made for.
What could Jesus do with your whole life surrendered to Him?
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In this message, we explore James 1:22–25 and the call to be doers of the Word, not just hearers. It reminds us that true faith is shown through obedience, not just information or intention.
We’re challenged to live out what we believe, especially in the everyday moments where obedience is tested. On Father’s Day, we also reflect on the power of leading by example and how consistent obedience shapes families and future generations.
What we do with God’s Word determines the impact it has on our lives.
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Not a Fan series.
In this message, we explore Luke 14:25–33 and Jesus’ call to consider the cost of following Him. It reminds us that discipleship is not casual—it requires intentional commitment and surrender.
We’re challenged to examine what we’re holding onto that may be holding us back. Following Jesus means choosing Him above everything else, trusting that what we gain in Him is greater than anything we leave behind.
What could Jesus do with a fully surrendered life?
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Not a Fan series.
In this message, we explore Luke 9:23–24 and Jesus’ call to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him. It challenges us to move beyond being a “fan” of Jesus and step into true discipleship.
We’re invited to examine the difference between admiration and surrender. Real following means daily commitment, not just momentary excitement.
What could Jesus do with a life fully surrendered to Him?
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Not a Fan series.
In this message, we explore Psalm 23:5–6 and Romans 8:37–39, reminding us that God’s presence, love, and victory are greater than anything we face. Even in the presence of fear and opposition, we are not defeated—we are secured in Him.
We’re challenged to stop living from anxiety and start living from the confidence of who God is and what He has already done. When we see ourselves as more than conquerors in Christ, fear loses its power over our lives.
What could Jesus do with a life rooted in His victory?
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table series.
In this message, we explore 2 Corinthians 10:5 and Philippians 4:8 and the call to take every thought captive and focus our minds on what is true, pure, and praiseworthy. It reminds us that spiritual growth begins in the mind, and what we allow to stay there shapes how we live.
We’re challenged to recognize unhealthy thought patterns and actively replace them with God’s truth. As we align our thinking with Christ, our minds become renewed and our lives begin to change.
This is also a Circle Sunday, where we gather around round tables to discuss the message together, share openly, and grow in community as we apply God’s Word in real conversations.
What could Jesus do with a mind fully surrendered to Him?
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table series.
In this message, we explore 2 Corinthians 10:5 and Psalm 23 and how to recognize the lies that try to shape our thinking. It reminds us that not every voice in our head aligns with God’s truth, and we’re called to take those thoughts captive.
We’re challenged to identify deception and replace it with the truth of who God is—our Shepherd who leads, protects, and restores us. When we learn to spot the enemy’s lies, we can walk in greater clarity, peace, and confidence.
What could Jesus do with a mind anchored in His truth?
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table series.
In this message, we explore Psalm 23:1–5 and the comforting truth that God is our Shepherd who provides, leads, and sustains us even in our darkest valleys. It reminds us that hardship does not cancel God’s presence or His provision.
We’re challenged to trust that God is still working even in seasons of struggle, preparing strength, peace, and victory right in the middle of difficulty. When we walk through the valley, we are not abandoned—we are accompanied.
What could Jesus do in the middle of your valley?
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table series.
In this message, we explore Matthew 9:9–13 and the power of Matthew’s simple “yes” to Jesus. His story reminds us that Jesus calls the willing, not the perfect.
As Jesus shows mercy to those far from Him, we’re invited to do the same. We’re also challenged to take ownership of our growth, even in a world full of distractions and excuses.
What could Jesus do with your yes? More than you think.
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the What Could Jesus Do? series.
In this message, we explore Luke 4:18–19 and Jesus’ mission to bring healing, freedom, and hope to the broken. His words remind us that our hurt is not something He ignores—it’s exactly what He came to restore.
He sees every wound and cares deeply about your story. We’re invited to bring our pain to Jesus and trust Him with the healing process.
What could Jesus do with your hurt? He can turn pain into purpose.
Subscribe and stay connected as we continue the What Could Jesus Do? series.
In this message from our What Could Jesus Do? series, we look at Matthew 4:18–22, where Jesus calls His first disciples—ordinary fishermen—to leave everything behind and follow Him. With just a simple invitation, “Follow me,” their lives are completely redirected, showing us the power of Jesus’ call and the kind of response it requires.
This passage reminds us that following Jesus often means stepping out of comfort, trusting Him with our future, and surrendering what’s familiar. Just as Peter, Andrew, James, and John immediately dropped their nets, we’re challenged to consider what it looks like to respond to Jesus with the same urgency and faith today.
As we continue this series, we’ll keep exploring how Jesus’ life and actions shape the way we live. This message invites us to reflect on what we might need to leave behind—and what it truly means to follow Him fully.
Subscribe, share this message, and stay connected as we continue the What Could Jesus Do? series.
In this interview from our What Could Jesus Do? series, Aaron and Jaimie share a powerful story of faith shaped through both success and hardship. From Aaron’s early life and loss of his father to his journey into the NFL, we see how God was at work long before the spotlight.
After moving to Pittsburgh, what began as an unexpected step into community became a key foundation for their spiritual growth. Even in the highs of Aaron’s career—including Super Bowl wins—their greatest challenge came when their young son Elijah was diagnosed with a serious illness.
In that difficult season, their faith was tested but also deepened, as Scripture, community, and trust in God carried them through. Their story reveals how trials can reshape what we value and how we see God.
As we ask, What could Jesus do?, this message reminds us that Jesus meets us in both victory and suffering—and invites us to trust Him through it all.Subscribe, share this message, and stay connected as we continue the What Could Jesus Do?
Subscribe, share this message, and stay connected as we continue the What Could Jesus Do?
In this Easter Sunday message from our What Could Jesus Do? series, we reflect on the powerful moment of Jesus’ death in Mark 15:37–39, where the temple curtain was torn and a Roman centurion declared, “Surely this man was the Son of God!” This moment reveals not only who Jesus is, but what His sacrifice made possible—direct access to God and the beginning of something completely new.
Paired with 2 Corinthians 5:17, we’re reminded that through Christ, we are no longer defined by our past. In Him, the old is gone and a new life has begun. Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we are invited into transformation, restoration, and a brand-new identity.
As we kick off this series throughout the month, we’ll continue exploring what it looks like to live in light of Jesus’ power and example. This message calls us to not just remember what Jesus did—but to ask how His life changes the way we live today.
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In this message from our Who We Are in Christ series, we explore the powerful truths found in Ephesians 6, where we are called to stand firm in the strength of the Lord. This passage reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, and because of that, God has equipped us with everything we need through the full armor of God.
We unpack what it means to live daily with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God actively shaping our lives. Each piece of armor is a reminder that we are not left defenseless—we are strengthened and sustained by Christ as we remain rooted in Him through prayer and obedience.
As we seek to live out our identity in Christ, we are encouraged to stay alert, stand firm, and rely on God’s power in every season.
We concluded this week’s message with a meaningful Q&A session, taking time to reflect on the passage and answer questions about how we can practically apply these truths in our everyday lives.
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In this message from our Who We Are in Christ series, we dive into the calling and identity we have as one body in Christ. Ephesians 4 challenges us to walk in a manner worthy of our calling—marked by humility, unity, and love.
We are reminded that Christ has given each of us unique gifts to build up the church, so that together we grow in maturity and reflect Him more clearly. No longer living as we once did, we are called to put off our old selves and be renewed in the spirit of our minds, stepping into the new life God has given us.
Subscribe, share this message, and stay connected for more from our Who We Are in Christ series.
In this message from our Who We Are in Christ series, we explore the powerful truth that we are invited into the mystery of Christ.
In Ephesians 3, we see that God’s plan—once hidden—is now revealed: that all people are brought together in Jesus, united as one family through the gospel.
Through Christ, we have boldness and confidence to approach God, and we’re reminded that our identity is rooted in His love. As Paul prays, we are invited to be strengthened from within, to grasp the depth of Christ’s love, and to be filled with the fullness of God.
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In this message from our Who We Are in Christ series, we explore the powerful truth that we’ve been made alive by grace.
Ephesians 2 reminds us that we were once dead in our sin, separated from God and without hope—but God, in His mercy, stepped in.
Through Jesus, we are saved by grace, not by our own works, and given a new life with purpose. We are no longer outsiders, but brought near, made part of God’s family, and built together into something greater than ourselves.
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In this message from our Who We Are in Christ series, we explore the powerful truth that our identity begins with God’s choice. Long before we ever sought Him, God chose us in Christ and called us into His family.
Looking at Ephesians 1, we discover that we were chosen before the foundation of the world—not by accident or circumstance, but according to God’s loving plan. Through Jesus, we are adopted as sons and daughters, given a secure identity, and welcomed into a lasting inheritance.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our February series, On Earth As It Is In Heaven, with a compelling message entitled “Intensity of Mission.”
In 1 Corinthians 9:19–27, the Apostle Paul describes a life fully devoted to the mission of the gospel—one marked by intentionality, sacrifice, and disciplined purpose. Paul’s words challenge us to see our faith not as something casual or convenient, but as a calling worthy of our full effort and focus.
This message invites us to examine the intensity with which we pursue God’s mission in our everyday lives. When the church lives with clarity and urgency, heaven’s priorities begin to take shape on earth.
Join us as we explore what it looks like to run with purpose, live with discipline, and give ourselves fully to the work God has entrusted to us.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our February series, On Earth As It Is In Heaven, with a message entitled “Generosity of Resources.”
In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus draws our attention to a widow whose small offering reveals a great faith. While others gave out of abundance, she gave out of trust—placing everything she had in God’s hands. Her quiet act of generosity paints a powerful picture of what God values most.
This message invites us to rethink generosity—not as an amount to measure, but as a posture of the heart. When we release our resources with trust and obedience, we reflect the values of heaven here on earth.
Join us as we explore how sacrificial generosity becomes a living expression of God’s kingdom and how our giving can align our hearts with His purposes.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our February series, On Earth As It Is In Heaven, with a thought-provoking message from Pastor Dave Martin entitled “Obscurity of Ego.”
Heaven is marked by humility, unity, and a shared devotion to God’s purposes—but on earth, ego often gets in the way. In this message, we look at two pivotal moments in the early church: Barnabas advocating for Saul when others were skeptical, and the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark.
Drawing from Acts 9:26–27 and Acts 15:36–40, this message explores how God works through imperfect people, strained relationships, and unseen acts of humility. It challenges us to consider what happens when ego fades into the background and God’s mission takes center stage.
Join us as we discover how laying down our need for recognition opens the door for God’s kingdom to be revealed on earth—just as it is in heaven.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we kick off our February message series, On Earth As It Is In Heaven, with an opening message entitled “Diversity of Faces.”
Jesus teaches us to pray for God’s kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. But what does heaven actually look like? In this message, we turn to Revelation’s powerful vision of people from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing together before the throne—and we consider what that means for how we live, love, and worship today.
Drawing from Matthew 6:9–13 and Revelation 7:9–10, this message invites us to see diversity not as a challenge to manage, but as a gift to celebrate—one that reflects the heart and design of God Himself.
Join us as we begin this series by exploring how God’s heavenly vision shapes our earthly calling, and how the church can become a living picture of heaven here and now.
Subscribe, share, and join us as we pray—and live—on earth as it is in heaven.
This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we close out our January series, All In, with a powerful Vision Sunday message entitled “This Is What We’re Made For.”
From Philippians 3:1–9, the Apostle Paul reflects on everything he once considered gain—and why he ultimately laid it all down to know Christ. His words challenge us to reconsider our priorities, our pursuits, and the things we place our confidence in.
On Vision Sunday, we look ahead together—clarifying who we are as a church, why we exist, and what it means to live with purpose and passion for the gospel. This message calls us to stop settling for what’s comfortable and step fully into the life God has designed us for.
Join us as we celebrate all God has done, cast vision for what’s ahead, and commit ourselves—once again—to living all in for Jesus.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our January series, All In, with a bold and challenging message entitled “Burn the Ships.”
From 1 Kings 19:19–21, we look at the moment Elijah calls Elisha—and the radical response that follows. Elisha doesn’t hesitate, negotiate, or keep a backup plan. He slaughters the oxen, burns the plow, and steps fully into God’s calling. It’s a picture of wholehearted surrender and decisive obedience.
In this message, we explore what it means to remove the safety nets, let go of what’s familiar, and say yes to God without looking back. All In faith requires more than intention—it requires action.
Join us as we wrestle with the question: What ships might God be asking us to burn so we can fully follow Him?
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our January series, All In, with a powerful message entitled “He’s Worth It.”
In 2 Samuel 24:18–24, King David refuses to offer God a sacrifice that costs him nothing. His response reveals a deep conviction: true worship always involves surrender, trust, and cost. What we give to God matters—not because He needs it, but because it shapes our hearts.
This message challenges us to consider what all in worship really looks like. Are we offering God what’s convenient, or what truly costs us? When we recognize who God is and what He’s done, our response becomes clear—He’s worth it.
Join us as we reflect on the value of sacrificial worship and the joy found in giving God our very best.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our January series, All In, with a challenging and deeply meaningful message entitled “Power of Surrender.”
In Genesis 22, we encounter one of the most profound moments of faith in Scripture as Abraham is asked to surrender what mattered most to him. This story confronts us with the tension between trust and control, obedience and understanding, faith and fear.
This message invites us to wrestle with what it truly means to live all in with God—believing that He is faithful, even when the cost feels high and the outcome is unclear. Surrender is never easy, but it is powerful, because it places our lives fully in God’s hands.
Join us as we explore how surrender opens the door for God to move in ways we could never imagine.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we’re excited to share a special message from Pastor Rosemary Hook entitled “Cheese on Bread.”
Drawing from the story of Joseph, Pastor Rosemary unpacks how life can catch us off guard—sometimes in startling, confusing, and unexpected ways. Just as Joseph faced betrayal, detours, and sudden twists he never saw coming, we, too, encounter moments that leave us saying, “Where did that come from?”
In this creative and heartfelt message, Pastor Rosemary reminds us that even when life surprises us, God is never surprised. His presence is steady, His purpose is sure, and His hand is at work behind the scenes—even in the moments that feel most out of control.
Join us as we explore what it means to trust God when life doesn’t go according to plan, and discover how He can turn even our most unexpected moments into something good.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we’re excited to share the message from our special Christmas at Calvary services. In this Christmas celebration, Pastor Nick invites us to pause, breathe, and rediscover “The Whimsy of Christmas.”
In a season so often filled with hustle, deadlines, and expectations, the Christmas story calls us back to wonder—to the playful, joy-filled, surprising ways God shows up in the world. From a manger in Bethlehem to a sky filled with angels, Christmas reminds us that God delights in doing the extraordinary through the ordinary.
In this message, we explore how the whimsy of Christmas isn’t childish—it’s sacred. It’s the joyful recognition that God is near, God is moving, and God invites us into a story bigger and more beautiful than we imagined.
Join us as we slow down, lift our eyes, and celebrate the wonder of Jesus—God with us.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our Christmas series, The Whimsy of Christmas, by journeying with one of the most mysterious groups in the nativity story—the Magi.
In this message, “The Beauty of Gifts,” we explore what their long trek, their unexpected appearance, and their treasured offerings reveal about the heart of worship. The gifts of the Magi were more than symbolic—they were expressions of honor, faith, and recognition of the newborn King.
Their story invites us to look deeper at the gifts we bring to God: our time, our trust, our obedience, and our worship. And it reminds us that every gift given to Christ carries beauty—not because of its size or cost, but because of the heart behind it.
Join us as we rediscover the wonder of generous worship and the God who meets us on the journey.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our Christmas series, The Whimsy of Christmas, by turning our attention to one of the most remarkable figures in the story—Mary.
In this message, “The Ambition of Love,” we explore Mary’s courageous “yes” to God and the kind of love that moves beyond sentiment and into action. Mary’s story isn’t just tender and beautiful—it’s bold. It shows us that God often works through ordinary people who are willing to trust Him in extraordinary ways.
Her willingness, her surrender, and her quiet strength remind us that love—real, godly love—always reaches, risks, and responds.
Join us as we uncover the wonder of Mary’s part in the Christmas story and discover what her life teaches us about a love that dares to believe God for more.
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This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we open our new Christmas series, The Whimsy of Christmas. In a season filled with wonder, joy, and sacred mystery, we begin by looking back—way back—to a moment when the world was waiting in silence.
For 400 years, God’s people lived through what’s often called the Intertestamental Period: four centuries without a prophet, without fresh Scripture, without a clear word from heaven. It was a time of longing, questions, and quiet anticipation.
And then—Christ was born.
In this opening message, “The End of the Beginning,” Pastor Nick explores how the birth of Jesus didn’t simply start the Christmas story; it brought an end to an era of silence. The arrival of Christ broke through the stillness with hope, light, and the promise that God had been working all along—even when He seemed quiet.
Join us as we rediscover the whimsy and wonder of Christmas, and remember that God often does His best work in the silence.
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In this week’s message from Crushed, we discover that not all weight is destructive—some is life-giving. Hebrews 6 describes hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure, rooted in Jesus who has gone before us. While life’s pressures can leave us feeling crushed by pain, failure, or fear, God offers a different kind of weight: the overwhelming, stabilizing power of hope.
Crushed by Hope reminds us that when everything else is shifting, Christ holds us steady. His hope doesn’t deny the storm—it secures us through it.
When despair presses in, let the weight of hope in Christ press back even harder.
In this week’s message from Crushed, we explore the devastating power of words. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “the tongue has the power of life and death,” and many of us know firsthand how words can wound, discourage, or even crush our spirit.
Yet, Scripture also shows us another way. In 1 Peter 2:23, we see Jesus, who—even when insulted and mistreated—did not retaliate but entrusted Himself to God. Crushed by Our Words challenges us to recognize both the weight of what we say and the healing available when we surrender our wounds to Christ.
Words can crush, but in Jesus, there is restoration and the power to speak life instead of death.
In this week’s message from Crushed, we tackle one of the heaviest burdens many of us face—failure. Whether it’s falling short in our personal lives, careers, or spiritual walk, failure can leave us feeling crushed and unworthy. Yet Scripture reminds us that the righteous may fall seven times but rise again (Proverbs 24:16), and that even though we are hard-pressed, we are not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4).
Crushed by Failure is a message of hope for anyone who feels stuck in regret or shame. God doesn’t define us by our failures—He refines us through them. When we’re weak, His power shines through the cracks, reminding us that His grace is bigger than our mistakes.
Failure may knock you down, but in Christ, it can never keep you down.
This week on Crushed, we welcome Bruce Van Natta to share his incredible testimony of survival and God’s miraculous power. While working under a semi-truck, Bruce was literally crushed—his body broken beyond what doctors thought possible to survive. Yet, through divine intervention and the prayers of many, he not only lived but made a full recovery.
In this powerful conversation, Bruce takes us through his near-death experience, the faith that carried him, and the purpose he discovered on the other side of tragedy. His story is a living reminder that even when life leaves us broken, God’s power can restore, redeem, and write a greater story.
When life crushes you, God’s miracle can raise you.
In this week’s message from our Crushed series, we step into the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus Himself felt the weight of deep sorrow and anguish. Matthew 26 shows us that even the Son of God was overwhelmed to the point of death—a powerful reminder that depression and despair are not signs of weakness, but part of the human struggle.
Crushed by Depression reminds us that we are not alone in our darkest hours. Jesus meets us in our pain, carries our burdens, and shows us that even in seasons of crushing, God is at work. There is hope beyond the heaviness, and strength available when we feel at our weakest.
Depression may crush you, but it doesn’t have to define you—Jesus is with you in the garden.
In this week’s message in our current series, The Art of Giving, we discover that generosity is never one-sided. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12 that we are all part of one body, and when we give, we don’t just bless others—we strengthen the whole body, including ourselves.
What Giving Gets You challenges the idea that generosity leaves us with less. Instead, it reveals how giving connects us more deeply to Christ’s body, builds unity, and allows us to experience joy, purpose, and belonging in God’s family.
When you give, you gain far more than you lose—you gain connection, community, and Kingdom impact.
In this week’s message in our The Art of Giving series, we confront one of the greatest obstacles to generosity—the fear of not having enough. From the disciples facing thousands with only five loaves and two fish to Jesus’ command not to worry about what we will eat or wear, Scripture shows us that scarcity is not the end of the story.
The Scarcity Effect reminds us that when we fix our eyes on what we lack, we miss seeing the God of abundance. But when we trust Him with what little we have, He multiplies it beyond imagination—for our good and His glory.
Scarcity says, “I can’t.” Faith says, “God can.”
In this week’s message from The Art of Giving, we’re reminded that true giving always costs us something—but it also carries transforming power. Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). King David echoed this truth when he declared he would not offer to God that which cost him nothing (2 Samuel 24).
The Power of Sacrifice calls us to move beyond convenient generosity into sacrificial giving that reflects the heart of Christ. When we give at a cost, we not only honor God but also discover the deeper joy, freedom, and impact that sacrificial love brings.
Real love is proven in sacrifice. Real worship is revealed in what it costs.
In this week’s message from The Art of Giving, we dive into the surprising truth that generosity doesn’t leave us empty—it makes us richer in ways that matter most. Proverbs 11 reminds us that “one gives freely, yet grows all the richer… whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
Giving is Getting challenges our natural instincts and reveals the kingdom principle that when we open our hands, we position ourselves to receive God’s blessings—spiritual, relational, and even practical. True abundance isn’t measured by what we keep, but by what we give away.
When you live generously, you’ll discover you already have more than enough.
In this week’s episode of Deep & Wide, we explore the beautiful balance of being Deeply Rooted in Christ while extending Wide Branches to reach and impact others. In this message, we discover that spiritual depth fuels effective outreach.
When our roots grow deep in God’s love and truth, our branches naturally spread wide—bearing fruit, offering shade, and inviting others to find life in Him. This message encourages us to cultivate a faith that’s both rooted and expansive, personal and missional.
🌳 Strong roots support wide-reaching branches. Grow deep, reach far.
In this week’s message from our Deep & Wide series, we’re reminded that spiritual depth should always lead to outward movement. In Outward Focused, we explore Jesus’ call to make disciples and be His witnesses—beginning where we are and expanding to the ends of the earth.
A mature faith doesn’t just grow deeper in knowledge or intimacy with God—it grows wider in compassion, service, and boldness to reach the lost. This message challenges us to lift our eyes beyond the walls of the church and live with a mission-minded focus every day.
🌎 Deep faith leads to wide impact. Let’s live sent.
In this week’s powerful message from our Deep & Wide series, guest speaker Pastor Mel Masengale from Summit Church (Indiana, PA) unpacks what it means to be Deeply Rooted in Christ. Pastor Mel challenges us to develop a faith that’s not swayed by circumstances but anchored in truth.
Being deeply rooted means living with stability, strength, and purpose—so that as we grow wider in reaching others, we’re not uprooted by fear, culture, or compromise. This message is a timely call to dig deep and let your life be firmly planted in God’s presence and Word.
🌳 You can’t grow wide without going deep. Let your roots determine your reach.
In this week’s message from our Deep & Wide series, Pastor Colin explores what it means to be Deeply Known—not just by God, but by one another. The early church wasn’t built on shallow connections; it was rooted in authentic, vulnerable relationships where believers carried each other’s burdens and loved with sincerity.
As followers of Jesus, we’re called to move beyond surface-level community and into deeper relationships marked by trust, empathy, and grace. This message challenges us to create a culture where people are truly seen, supported, and spiritually encouraged.
🤝 You can’t grow wide in reaching others if you’re not growing deep with one another.
In this kick-off of our new message series, Deep & Wide, Pastor Michael explores the profound truth that those who are deeply forgiven are empowered to love deeply. Through the story of the sinful woman who anointed Jesus’ feet, we see how an encounter with mercy transforms everything.
Deeply Forgiven reminds us that going deeper in our faith starts with recognizing the depth of God’s grace. When we fully grasp how much we've been forgiven, our hearts open wider—to love, to serve, and to reach others with that same grace.
🕊️ The deeper the forgiveness, the wider the love. Let grace take you deeper today.
In this week’s message from Soil of the Supernatural, we turn our attention to the evidence of a Spirit-filled life—Fruit that Remains. Drawing from Galatians 5:22–26, we’re reminded that true spiritual growth isn’t about momentary experiences, but about lasting transformation marked by love, joy, peace, and more.
The supernatural life isn’t just about signs and wonders—it’s about producing fruit that reflects the character of Christ. This message challenges us to cultivate a life where the Spirit is not only present, but producing something eternal.
🍇 Supernatural power is proven in everyday fruit. Let your life bear what only the Spirit can grow.
In this powerful message in our series, Soil of the Supernatural, guest speaker Pastor Mike Santiago brings a faith-stirring word titled "Miracles in the Making." With passion and clarity, Pastor Mike reminds us that even when we can’t see it, God is working beneath the surface—cultivating, preparing, and positioning us for supernatural breakthrough.
Miracles rarely start with the spectacular. They begin in the soil—places of surrender, obedience, and faith. If you’ve been praying, waiting, or wondering when God will move, this message will encourage you to trust the process and stay rooted in His promise.
🌾 Your miracle may still be underground, but it's already in the making.
In this week’s message in our series, Soil of the Supernatural, we explore what it means to live a life Watered by the Spirit. Jesus promises rivers of living water to all who believe in Him—a direct reference to the Holy Spirit flowing in and through our lives (John 7:37–39). But how do we stay in step with the Spirit and allow that water to nourish the soil of our souls?
Drawing from Galatians 5, this message calls us to walk by the Spirit—not by the flesh—so we can bear lasting fruit and thrive in the supernatural life God intends. When our hearts are daily saturated with His presence, transformation is inevitable.
💧 You can’t grow in the supernatural without the Spirit’s water. Let Him drench every dry place.
In the kickoff message of our new series Soil of the Supernatural, we dig into what it means to prepare our hearts for a life marked by the power and presence of God. Rooted in Galatians 2:20, this message challenges us to surrender our old ways of living so that Christ can fully live through us.
Just like a farmer must till the soil before a harvest, God invites us to break up the hard places in our hearts, remove what hinders growth, and create space for His Spirit to move. Preparing the Ground is about dying to self so we can fully come alive in Him.
🌱 Before God brings the supernatural harvest, He prepares the soil. Is your heart ready?
As we close out our Message Series, Worshipology, special guest Jeff Deyo—worship leader, author, and former frontman of Sonicflood—joins us to explore the freedom found in authentic worship. Grounded in the truth of 2 Corinthians 3:17 and John 8:36, this episode reminds us that where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom—and that freedom changes everything.
Jeff shares powerful insights on breaking free from performance-based worship, fear, and shame so we can encounter God with uninhibited joy and boldness. Worship is not about perfection—it’s about presence. And in His presence, we find true liberty.
🕊️ You were made to worship freely. Don’t settle for chains when Jesus already broke them.
In this vibrant message in our message series, Worshipology, we dive into what it means to worship God with freedom, passion, and full expression. Through the joyful call of Psalm 95 and the unashamed dance of King David in 2 Samuel 6, we’re reminded that worship isn’t meant to be muted—it’s meant to be alive.
God invites us to bring our whole selves before Him—voices lifted, hands raised, hearts open. Whether you're naturally expressive or more reserved, this message encourages you to step beyond comfort and into wholehearted praise.
💃 Worship isn’t a performance—it’s a response. Let joy lead the way.
As we continue our Message Series, Worshipology, Pastor Dave Martin unpacks the awe-inspiring truth found in Hebrews 12:28–29—that our God is a consuming fire, worthy of reverence and awe.
What does it look like to approach God with holy fear in a culture that often treats worship casually? Pastor Dave calls us back to the heart of worship: humble, grateful, and reverent before the majesty of a holy God.
Whether you're leading others or simply seeking to grow deeper in your personal worship, this message will realign your heart and renew your wonder.
🔥 Worship isn't just expressive—it's reverent. Let your worship reflect the weight and glory of the One you’re approaching.
As we kick off our Message Series, Worshipology, Pastor Josh Rutter challenges us to live and worship with purpose. Drawing from Colossians 3:16–17, we explore what it means to let the word of Christ dwell richly within us and how our everyday actions—whether word or deed—can become acts of intentional worship.
Whether you're leading worship on a platform or simply living out your faith in daily routines, this message reminds us that worship isn't confined to a moment—it's a lifestyle. Tune in and discover how intentionality transforms ordinary moments into sacred expressions of gratitude to God.
🕊️ Let your worship start with awareness, grow with intentionality, and flow into every part of your life.
What will your life leave behind? In this final message in The Pressure Cooker series, we take a deep look at The Pressure of Legacy—the weight we feel to live a life that matters and to finish well. Drawing from Psalm 112:6, which says “the righteous will be remembered forever,” and Paul’s final words in 2 Timothy 4:6–8, we’re reminded that legacy isn’t about perfection—it’s about faithfulness.
Paul’s declaration, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” points us to a life anchored in purpose and perseverance.
Join us as we explore how to live today in light of eternity—investing in what lasts, staying faithful under pressure, and leaving a legacy that honors Christ.
Listen in and ask yourself: What kind of legacy am I building with the life I’m living right now?
What if the pressure you're feeling isn’t meant to break you—but to grow you? In this next message of The Pressure Cooker message series, we tackle The Pressure of Temptation through the lens of 1 Corinthians 10:13. The apostle Paul reminds us that temptation is a universal experience—but so is God’s faithfulness. He promises that we’ll never face a temptation without a way out.
Temptation often shows up in moments of weakness, stress, or isolation, but God gives us the strength to stand firm when we feel like giving in.
Join us as we talk honestly about the daily struggle of temptation, and how to respond with faith, wisdom, and reliance on God's power.
Listen in and ask yourself: Am I looking for the way out—or giving in to the pressure?
What do you do when everything you’ve worked for seems to fall apart? In the next message of The Pressure Cooker message series, we dive into 1 Samuel 30:1–6, where David returns from battle only to find his home destroyed, his family taken, and his men turning against him. Under the crushing pressure of loss, expectation, and leadership, David is faced with a defining choice.
In the midst of overwhelming stress, the turning point comes in one powerful phrase: “But David found strength in the Lord his God.”
Join us as we explore how to handle the pressure of work—when responsibilities mount, outcomes disappoint, and exhaustion sets in. Discover how to find strength not in what you do, but in who God is.
Listen in and ask yourself: Where am I finding my strength when the pressure is on?
What do you do when the weight of leadership feels overwhelming? In the next message of The Pressure Cooker message series, we look at the life of Moses in Exodus 33:12–15—a leader caught between a struggling people and a holy God. With the weight of an entire nation on his shoulders, Moses doesn’t ask for more power or strategy. He asks for one thing: God’s presence.
In moments of pressure, Moses models the kind of leadership that depends on divine direction over personal strength. His bold plea—“If Your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here”—is a reminder that godly leadership begins with humble dependence.
Join us as we explore what it means to lead not from pressure, but from presence.
Listen in and ask yourself: Am I leading from my own strength—or leaning on God's?
What do you do when the weight of responsibility feels too heavy to carry? In this first message in The Pressure Cooker message series, we explore the challenge of leading, choosing, and standing firm under the pressure of responsibility. Looking at Joshua 24:14–15, we find Joshua addressing the people of Israel with a clear and courageous call: “Choose this day whom you will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Responsibility isn’t just about tasks—it’s about choices. It's about leading ourselves, our families, and our communities with faith and conviction, even when it’s hard.
Join us as we unpack how to navigate the pressure of responsibility with integrity, faith, and clarity in a world full of competing voices.
Listen in and ask yourself: Who am I serving—and what legacy am I building under pressure?
What if your greatest obstacle is actually the gateway to God’s greatest provision? In this final message in our Daughters of Wisdom message series, we explore the story of the widow at Zarephath in 1 Kings 17:8–16. Facing a drought, a dwindling supply of food, and the fear of death, this unnamed woman is asked to take a step of faith—feeding the prophet Elijah with her last bit of flour and oil.
Her obedience in the face of desperation reveals a deep truth: God meets us in our lack and provides when we trust Him with what little we have.
Join us as we unpack how faith, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles, opens the door to God’s miraculous provision and purpose.
Listen in and ask yourself: What if the obstacle in front of you is the place where God wants to show up the most?
What if quiet faithfulness is one of the most powerful forms of influence? In this message in our Daughters of Wisdom message series, we explore the story of Ruth in Ruth 1:11–18—a woman whose loyalty, love, and commitment reshaped not only one family’s future but became part of God’s redemptive plan for the world.
As Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi, her words—“Where you go, I will go”—echo the kind of influence that flows from selfless devotion and courageous obedience.
This story reminds us that influence isn’t always loud or public. Sometimes it looks like showing up, standing firm, and walking faithfully with others through uncertain seasons.
Join us as we reflect on how God can use our everyday decisions to shape extraordinary outcomes.
Listen in and ask yourself: How is God calling me to use my influence today?
What if the moment you're in is the moment God wants to use? In this episode of our Daughters of Wisdom message series, we look at the story of Esther in chapter 4:1–16—a young woman placed in a position of influence at the exact time her people faced destruction. As the stakes rise, Esther is challenged to embrace her moment, step out in courage, and trust that God has positioned her for a greater purpose.
Her story reminds us that divine moments often come disguised as difficult decisions—and faith means saying yes, even when fear is loud.
Join us as we explore what it means to be faithful right where we are, and how embracing the moment can lead to kingdom impact.
Listen in and ask yourself: What if you were made for such a time as this?
What does it look like to reflect God's heart for the vulnerable? In this episode of our Daughters of Wisdom series, we explore Exodus 2:1–10 and the powerful story of the women who helped save baby Moses. From his mother’s courage, to his sister’s boldness, to Pharaoh’s daughter’s unexpected compassion—we see a tapestry of women moved by love to protect and provide for a child in need.
Their actions remind us that caring for the orphan is not just a calling—it’s a reflection of God’s own character.
Join us as we discover how God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things when we choose to step in, speak up, and love boldly.
Listen in and ask yourself: What if God is calling me to be part of someone’s rescue story?
What happens when you’re given a second chance at life? In this powerful conversation recorded on a Sunday at Calvary Church, we sit down with Lee Vozel to hear his incredible story of battling addiction, surviving a near-death experience, and encountering the radical grace of God.
Lee’s journey is raw, real, and full of hope. From the depths of despair to a life transformed by God’s love, his story reminds us that no one is too far gone for redemption. If you’ve ever wondered if change is possible, Lee’s testimony will challenge and inspire you to believe that with God, all things are possible.
Listen in and be encouraged: No matter how broken the story, God is still in the business of bringing dead things back to life.
What if the darkest moment in history was actually the beginning of something beautiful? In this powerful Easter message, we explore how God brings beauty from ashes through the death and resurrection of Jesus. From the sorrow of the cross in Luke 23 to the promise of restoration in Isaiah 61 and the truth that God "has made everything beautiful in its time" from Ecclesiastes 3:11, we see a God who specializes in redemption.
The cross looked like the end—but it was the beginning of new life. The tomb looked final—but it was the doorway to hope.
Join us for this special Easter message as we remember that no matter how broken our story may seem, God is still writing something beautiful.
Listen in and ask yourself: What if the ashes of your life are the soil where resurrection begins?
What if the King we’ve been waiting for shows up in the most unexpected way? In this episode of our Found message series, we explore Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem from John 12—where He’s found not on a warhorse, but on a humble donkey.
As crowds wave palm branches and shout “Hosanna,” Jesus rides in fulfilling ancient prophecy and turning expectations upside down. This wasn’t the arrival of a conquering hero—it was the approach of a servant King, full of peace, purpose, and love.
Join us as we reflect on what it means to find Jesus not in power and pride, but in humility and grace.
Listen in and ask yourself: What kind of King am I looking for—and have I found Him in Jesus?
What if the miracle wasn’t just about the bread—but about the One who multiplied it? In this episode of our Found message series, we look at the incredible moment in Matthew 14 when Jesus feeds over five thousand people with just five loaves and two fish.
Surrounded by a hungry crowd in a remote place, the disciples saw limitation—but Jesus saw an opportunity for compassion, abundance, and faith. In the middle of an impossible situation, Jesus reveals Himself as the provider who meets every need.
Join us as we unpack this miracle and discover how Jesus still meets us in our lack, multiplies what we surrender, and satisfies in ways we never expected.
Listen in and ask yourself: What if Jesus is ready to do more with what I have than I could ever imagine?
What if the storms in our lives are where we truly find Jesus? In this episode of our Found message series, we step into the boat with Jesus and His disciples in Mark 4. As a furious storm rages, the disciples panic while Jesus sleeps—until they wake Him with a desperate question: "Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?"
With just a few words, Jesus calms the storm, revealing His power and presence even in the middle of chaos. What does this moment teach us about faith, fear, and trusting Jesus when life feels out of control?
Join us as we explore how Jesus meets us in the storms, stills our fears, and reminds us that He is always in the boat with us.
Listen in and ask yourself: What if I truly trusted Jesus in the storm?
What if the wilderness is where we truly find Jesus? In this episode of our Found message series, we journey into the barren, desolate place where Jesus spent 40 days fasting, praying, and facing temptation. In the wilderness, He was tested, yet He overcame—standing firm in His identity and mission.
Why was Jesus led into the wilderness? What does His victory over temptation reveal about His power, His purpose, and His example for us today? When we find ourselves in seasons of struggle, loneliness, or testing, can we also find Jesus there?
Join us as we explore Matthew 4 and discover how the wilderness is not a place of abandonment, but a place of preparation.
What if the moment Jesus stepped into the river was the moment everything changed? In this episode of our Found message series, we explore the powerful scene of Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. As He is submerged in the water by John the Baptist, the heavens open, the Spirit descends, and the Father declares, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
Why was Jesus—sinless and perfect—found in the river, identifying with sinners? What does His baptism reveal about His mission, His identity, and what it means for us today? Join us as we dive into Matthew 3 and discover how Jesus' baptism invites us to follow Him into a life of surrender, renewal, and calling.
Where do we go when we’re searching for Jesus? In this message of our Found Lenten series, we look at the moment in Luke 2 when Mary and Joseph lost track of 12-year-old Jesus—only to find Him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening, and asking questions. Even at a young age, Jesus was exactly where He was meant to be—about His Father’s business.
What does this story teach us about seeking and asking questions in our own lives? Join us as we explore what it means to find Jesus in the place of worship, learning, and discovery.
Before Jesus ever preached a sermon, healed the sick, or calmed a storm, He was found in the most unexpected place—the womb of a young, humble girl named Mary. In this episode of our Found message series, we explore the profound mystery of the incarnation, where God chose to step into humanity in the most vulnerable way.
What does it mean that Jesus was found in the womb? How does this moment reveal God’s heart for the weak, the unseen, and the ordinary? As we look at Mary’s response to this miraculous news, we’ll discover how God’s presence can be found in the most surprising places—even in our own lives.
Join us as we journey through Luke 1 and ask: What if God is moving in ways we never expected?
What if our obedience to God was the key to breakthrough? In this message of our What If series through the book of Nehemiah, we explore how Nehemiah and the people of Jerusalem responded to God’s call—not just with words, but with action. Facing opposition, challenges, and personal sacrifice, they chose to obey, trusting that God’s plans were greater than their fears.
What if we lived with that same kind of obedience? What if we trusted God’s direction, even when it was difficult or uncomfortable? Join us as we dive into Nehemiah 6 and discover how obedience unlocks God’s power and purpose in our lives.
Tune in and ask yourself: What if I truly followed where God is leading?
What if God’s people stood together with one heart and one mission? In this message from our What If series through the book of Nehemiah, we see the power of unity in rebuilding what is broken. Nehemiah 3 shows us that restoring Jerusalem’s walls wasn’t a solo effort—it took families, leaders, and everyday people working side by side for a common purpose.
What if we, as the Church, embraced that same spirit of unity? What if we set aside differences and worked together for God’s kingdom? Join us as we explore what it means to stand shoulder to shoulder, committed to God’s work, and discover how unity fuels transformation.
Listen in and ask yourself: What if we truly lived as one?
What if we truly committed to God’s calling—no matter the cost? In this episode in ourWhat If series through the book of Nehemiah, we look at what happens when God’s people move from concern to commitment. Nehemiah didn’t just feel burdened for the broken walls of Jerusalem; he took bold steps of faith, trusting God with the risks and the work ahead.
What if we lived with that same determination? What if we committed to God’s mission in our families, churches, and communities—fully surrendered and fully engaged? Join us as we explore Nehemiah 2 and discover how commitment can turn vision into reality.
What if our brokenness was the very thing God wanted to use? In this message in our What If series through the book of Nehemiah, we explore what happens when we allow ourselves to truly see the brokenness around us—and within us. Nehemiah’s story begins not with action, but with a heart that is shattered for God’s people. What if we, too, allowed our hearts to break for what breaks God’s? What if our greatest burden could become the foundation for restoration? Join us as we dive into Nehemiah 1 and discover how God moves through a broken and surrendered heart.
Tune in, reflect, and ask yourself: What if God wants to use my brokenness for something greater?
In this powerful message, Pastor Nick explores the often-overlooked spiritual disciplines of silence, solitude, and Sabbath, offering a counter-narrative to the relentless pace of modern life. Inspired by John Mark Comer's The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, this message invites you to rediscover the profound importance of slowing down. Learn how these ancient practices can bring peace to your soul, clarity to your mind, and renewed strength to your spirit as you find rest in God’s presence. Perfect for anyone seeking to break free from the busyness of life and embrace a deeper, more meaningful rhythm of rest.
Thank you for joining us for the weekly Calvary Podcast featuring thought-provoking messages designed to inspire and challenge listeners in their spiritual journey.
In our current series, we delve into The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer, exploring the profound insights it offers for our modern, fast-paced lives. This week’s message, entitled The Solution, emphasizes the importance of recognizing our limits, slowing down to be with Jesus, and adopting the way of Jesus.
Join us as we uncover practical steps to embrace a rhythm of grace, rest, and intentional living, reflecting the heart of Jesus in every aspect of our lives. Tune in for encouragement, reflection, and guidance on how to live a more abundant, Christ-centered life.
This month at Calvary Church we are going through a conversation about the transformative teachings of Jesus on rest and healthy rhythms. In a world consumed by constant busyness, we dive into the profound problem of living a hurried life and how it impacts our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Join us each week as we uncover the timeless wisdom of Jesus' call to slow down, find rest in Him, and embrace a life of intentional pace and peace. Let's journey together toward a life free from the tyranny of hurry, aligned with the rhythms of grace.
Life often feels like a waiting room—uncertain, uncomfortable, and filled with questions that seem to have no answers. In this powerful message, Pastor Mike Alvarez dives into the purpose and beauty of these in-between seasons. Drawing from Scripture and relatable stories, he explores how God works in the waiting, shaping our character, building our faith, and preparing us for what’s next.
Whether you’re waiting for a breakthrough, clarity, or a sign of hope, this sermon offers encouragement and practical insights to help you trust God’s timing and find peace in the process. Tune in and discover the power of waiting well.
The holidays are often portrayed as a season of joy and togetherness, but for many, they also bring pain, struggle, and grief. In this special episode, Pastor Nick sits down with three local therapists to explore the complexities of navigating difficult emotions during this time of year.
Together, they discuss practical tools for managing grief, creating healthy boundaries, and finding hope amid the holiday hustle. Whether you're struggling with loss, relational tension, or the weight of expectations, this conversation offers encouragement, insight, and a reminder that you’re not alone.
Tune in for a candid and compassionate dialogue that meets you where you are this holiday season.
Welcome to this week’s episode of Calvary Church, where we explore the heart of Christmas and what it means for us today. This message, titled "Christmas Is About People," dives into the profound truth that God chose to announce the birth of Jesus to humble shepherds—ordinary, overlooked people. Why did God begin the greatest story ever told with such a simple, lowly audience? Join us as we uncover how this moment reveals God’s deep love for all people, no matter their status or circumstances, and how it challenges us to see and value others in the same way. This Christmas, let’s celebrate the Savior who came for everyone—starting with the least likely among us.
This week on the podcast, we dive into the story of the Magi in Matthew 2 and the meaning behind the gifts they brought to Jesus—gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These treasures remind us of the extraordinary gift God gave to the world: His Son, Jesus Christ. But it doesn’t stop there. We are also called to reflect His generosity by being a gift to the world around us, sharing love, hope, and light in this season of giving.
Join us for a heartwarming message about how the presents of Christmas point us to the presence of Christ, inspiring us to give of ourselves in ways that make a lasting impact. 🎁
Tune in now and let’s unwrap the deeper meaning of Christmas together!
Step into the wonder of the season with us as we explore the prophecy and preparation that led to the very first Christmas. In this special message, we uncover how God orchestrated centuries of promises, people, and places to bring the Messiah into the world. But the story doesn't stop there—God's careful preparation is at work in your life today. Discover how His timeless plans and personal care can transform your Christmas, making it a season of purpose, peace, and hope.
In this episode, we dive into the life-changing power of confession and the freedom it unlocks in our lives. The message entitled "The Freedom of Dumpster," challenges us to confront the hidden burdens we carry—the fears, failures, and sins we’d rather keep out of sight. Using a metaphor of the dumpster as a place where we discard what we no longer need, we explore how confession allows us to release the weight of secrecy and shame, clearing the way for healing and connection.
Through scripture, we uncover how confession is not just about admitting wrongs but about embracing the courage to trust God and one another with our brokenness. It's in this honest exchange that we find true community and experience the grace of God in profound ways.
Tune in to learn how confession can transform your relationships, deepen your faith, and create a space where freedom and connection flourish. Don’t miss this liberating and inspiring message!
In this episode, we dive into the challenging yet transformative message from James 1:2-4. Pain and trials are universal experiences, but James invites us to see them not as barriers to growth but as tools in God's hands. This message explores how the trials we endure can produce perseverance, deepen our faith, and ultimately shape us into people of maturity and wisdom.
Drawing from real-life stories and biblical insights, we discuss the countercultural idea of considering it pure joy when faced with hardship. What does it mean to trust God's purposes in the middle of pain? How can we lean into His promise of wisdom when we feel lost or overwhelmed?
Join us as we uncover the hidden blessings that come through perseverance and learn to see pain not as an end, but as part of the progress God is making in and through us. Whether you're in a season of difficulty or want to prepare your heart for future challenges, this message offers hope, encouragement, and practical steps to grow in faith.
About our Speaker, Pastor Alan Hannah:
For the past 25 years, Alan Hannah has served the local church in full time ministry. He has spent the majority of that time as a pastor at three different churches in Virginia, Texas, and Pennsylvania, where he currently resides. Many of those years in ministry were dedicated to Worship Arts where Alan was known as an anointed worship leader capable of leading multi-ethnic and multi-generational congregations. He invested much of his energy into raising the bar of authenticity and excellence, leadership, and developing worship artists and creatives.
In 2014, God began preparing Alan for a transition into the role of lead pastor. Teaching and preaching were gifts God was developing and stirring in his heart, along with a passion for creating healthy, and empowered church teams. He completed a Master of Divinity from Liberty University Theological Seminary, and in January of 2020, was hired as the next Lead Pastor at Allegheny Center Alliance Church on the North Side of Pittsburgh, PA.
Alan completed his undergraduate work at Oral Roberts University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational & Interpersonal Communication with a minor in TV & Radio. This is also where he met his wife Tara. They have two children, Alex and Kadyn. Alan is an avid sports fan who roots for his hometown Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins. He loves to read, write, and share thoughts on his personal blog www.radiantmess.com. In the summer months, you’ll find him trying to squeeze in a round of golf, one of his other passions.
Tony Ross is a Vietnam Veteran and he tells his story of being wounded in Vietnam, seeing friends die, and his battle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder when he returned home. After returning from Vietnam, Tony graduated from Western Pennsylvania Bible Institute and has been in the ministry over forty years. In this conversation, Pastor Nick sits down with Tony for our Hero Sunday and talks about the struggles of life, the grace of Jesus and how we overcome the issues with face with God's help and the support of those around us.
In this week’s episode, we dive into the powerful message of Philippians 1:12-14, where Paul finds divine purpose even in the midst of his imprisonment. In The Glory of My Chains, we explore how the chains that could have defeated Paul became tools for God’s mission, spreading hope and courage among believers. Join us as we unpack what it means to find purpose and even joy in life’s most challenging moments, allowing our struggles to reveal God’s power and influence those around us. Whether you’re facing hardships or seeking encouragement, this message will inspire you to see the ways God is at work, even in the darkest seasons.
In this episode from Calvary Church, we dive into a powerful perspective on the beauty of heaven: it’s the people we’ll share it with. Pastor Nick brings to life the truth that heaven’s splendor isn’t just found in breathtaking scenes or golden streets, but in the community of souls gathered in God’s presence.
If Jesus really prayed, “...your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10), then maybe we should be working to operate here on earth as God intends us to be in the heaven?
This is where heaven comes to earth…not when we live by the norms of society, when we do what just feels right or makes sense in our culture, but when were are willing to cross cultural boundaries, when we are willing to be uncomfortable or step into awkward situations and build relationships, show God’s love to those that look nothing like us, believe nothing like us or even live nothing like us.
In this message, we dive deep into the splendor and majesty of heaven—God’s eternal promise to His people. Exploring scripture through the lens of hope and restoration, we uncover the profound truths of what awaits believers beyond this life. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus and the vivid imagery in the book of Revelation, this message offers a glimpse into the eternal glory of heaven, where sorrow is wiped away, and the fullness of God's presence is experienced. Whether you’re seeking comfort in difficult times or simply yearning to understand the beauty of God’s kingdom, "The Glory of Heaven" is a message that will uplift your soul and ignite a fresh sense of wonder for the life to come. Join us as we explore the hope-filled reality of heaven and the transformative power it has on our present lives.
Dr. Rob Starner has a rich heritage of ministry that spans over a century! His grandfather, Leo S.Starner, was an ordained Assemblies of God pastor for over 50 years and his father-in-law, Józef Bałuczyński (a vibrant centenarian!) is now in his eighth decade of pastoral ministry! Dr. Starner’s lengthy tenure in Christian higher education includes various terms of full-time service at Continental Theological Seminary, University of Valley Forge, Central Bible College, and most recently, Southwestern Assemblies of God University. In addition to his service in the college/university arena, Rob has served as associate pastor, Christian school administrator (Calvary Christian School in Irwin), hospital chaplain, and short-term missionary. He has authored numerous books, articles, blogs, and vlogs. He also has written and/or performed in a number of live theatrical productions and a few films. Ever energetic, Dr. Starner has a passion for local church ministry. He is always looking for opportunities to serve churches and parachurch organizations through teaching, preaching, training in Bible software, and drama ministry. You can get more info at RobStarner.com.
Pastor Mel Masengale is the Lead Pastor of Summit Church with campuses in Indiana, Blairsville and soon to be Johnstown, PA.
In the message, he shares about the difficult reality of hell. Is hell real? What does it mean for us today? How do we live in a way that keeps us from hell?
Over the past 40 years, Dr. Thomas Keinath has served as a pastor, evangelist, chaplain, district superintendent, and teacher, and most recently on the faculty of the University of Valley Forge. Dr. Keinath has also served on the teaching faculty of Central Bible College as an adjunct professor for the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (both in Springfield, MO), and as an instructor with the New Jersey District School of Ministry, which he co-founded. You can get more information about the University of Valley Forge at valleyforge.edu.
We live in the world that God is redeeming…we aren’t going to escape this place one day, but we will return to this place as part of the final resurrection, the final redemptive work of God.
- So let’s not burn this dumpster to the ground, but let’s honor it, care for it, work for it’s good and pray for the redemption of the brokenness all around us.
- That means that we have a responsibility as followers of Jesus to be the answer to Jesus’ prayer…”your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Our hope for what’s next becomes our hope for now.
And if we are to be people of hope, living with hope not only for our lives but for our world, that should impact how we interact with our co-workers, our neighbors, our friends and even our enemies.
- So here’s my challenge to you:
- Each day this week, I want you to be intentional to do one thing to bring hope into someone’s life.
- It might mean encouraging someone that’s discouraged at work.
- It might be helping someone out that’s struggling at school.
- It might be going and cutting the grass of that older person on your street.
- How can you give someone a physical or practical reminder that in the midst of a low moment or a difficult season, that there is this redeeming hope?
Dr. Bob Eby is a 1996 graduate of Central Bible College and has a Ph.D. in Biblical Interpretation and Theology from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. He has held pastoral positions in three churches in Illinois, most recently serving as the lead pastor of Southwest Community Church in Shorewood, Illinois. He currently serves as the Director of Cordas C. Burnett Preaching Center, Associate Professor of Biblical Exposition and Preaching at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary.
Compounded commitment produces what perfectly crafted competence can’t.
Before God ever asks us to commit, He already commits fully to us.
Before you were ever tempted to give up, before you ever faced an obstacle, difficulty or trial, God was so committed to you that He was already working on the solution.
- And just like Zerubbabel, you may come from a family where your family’s past has come back to haunt you and ruin even the good you’re trying to accomplish, but then there’s this God…this God who refuses to define you by your past or your family’s past.
God has a plan…a plan to not just see you do well or to see your life survive, but that you would be a carrier of the authority of this King, the King of Kings, the one who with a word can calm the storms, with one sentence can call forth the dead from the grave, with one motion can bring sight to the blind.
This same King, this same God, he isn’t just calling you, He’s committed to you, and that’s an entirely different thing.
The question I have for you today is are you committed?
Every moment matters to God because every moment carries its own beauty.
So rather than comparing, try creating.
- Rather than asking, how can I replace that or recapture that?
- And instead of asking, when will this happen in my life?
Focus on where you are, what’s in front of you…stop comparing yourself or your experience with other people, other times or other places, and start creating something beautiful right where you are.
God’s purposes for your life, God’s dream for your life has you at this moment, this time, this place for a reason.
Stop wishing away where you are…start creating with what you have.
While we’re often focused on what we can’t do, ask yourself these three questions:
- What am I thankful for right now?
- What is possible now that wasn’t before?
- What unique thing is God wanting to create in my life during this season?
We live in a world that tells us everything is supposed to revolve around us, around our interests, our desires, and our priorities.
- But throughout the scope of scripture, God presents a very counter-cultural approach…it’s an approach that doesn’t put our feelings or interests first, but puts God’s purposes first.
God wasn’t criticizing the Israelites for building homes or gardens, but he was pointing out that they had put those things, their interests ahead of God’s.
This is the powerful and challenging message of the opening chapter of Haggai…that our calling isn’t for us, it’s for them.
- Them being those around us, those that will follow us.
God has positioned you where he has and when he has for one purpose: to build His Kingdom.
- While the pressure is to build our dream, to build what makes us happy, the secret is you will find a deeper sense of joy, of contentment and of peace when you pursue God’s purposes versus your comforts.
- And while building God’s Kingdom will definitely cost you a lot, it will be uncomfortable and stretch you beyond what you think you are capable of, you will be stepping into what God created you to ultimately be.
So here are some questions to process today:
- What are your words, your actions and your responses building in this world?
- Is what you’re building with your life for your benefit or the benefit of others?
- What do you need to change to start building God’s Kingdom?
WAYS TO BE INTENTIONAL:
- Pray for each other
- Meet each other's real needs
- Encourage each other
- Challenge each other
WAYS TO BE RELATIONAL IN COMMUNITY:
- Communicate
- Be present
- Be honest
- Take responsibility
- Make time for each other
Our calling is clarified in community.
Isolation muddies our mission while community clarifies our calling.
The question I would ask is are you in community with others that are helping you become more like Jesus and clarify your calling?
This is why we talk about this so much here at Calvary that “We Grow best in the context of relationships.”
- We want to see you grow and live a life that’s not consumed fully with obligations but with the pursuit of your ultimate purpose on this earth.
In fact, this is why we’ve designed our LifeGroups specifically the way they are…because we working hard to create a church where:
- No one walks alone.
- Where we can learn to live and love like Jesus.
- And where we can Be deeply known by few.
Our schedules are so busy and as school starts up they get even crazier…but is your life so filled with activity that you’ve lost sight of the activity you were ultimately created to do?
Don’t allow busyness to rob you of your why.
Join guest, Tim Enloe, as he shares about the remarkable power and transformation that we can experience through the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
You can get more info about Tim Enloe at EnloeMinistries.org.
Just as the Holy Spirit has been working in these small ways throughout your life, He will work in bigger ways only as you give Him the chance.
And my challenge to you is the same that Jesus gave to His disciples 2,000 years ago…
Wait.
- The Holy Spirit works in His timing, but our action is to wait.
Worship.
- Waiting on the Holy Spirit to move in your life isn’t about waiting for something cool to happen, it’s about worshiping and pursuing more of Jesus in your life.
- You can’t get more of what you don’t already have a measure of.
Work.
- The Holy Spirit won’t move something immobile, but can direct something that is moving.
- If you want to see the Holy Spirit’s power and transformation in and through your life, don’t just sit and wait, but position yourself in places where the Holy Spirit can move.
- Position yourself in places where the Spirit is moving.
- You’ll never get wet staring at the beautiful waterfall…it’s not until you put your head under the waterfall that anyting changes.
So how do we use these incredible tools God gives us?
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We ask God for them.
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Paul says “eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit.”
- God gives freely to those that ask.
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Seek the gifts and tools of the Spirit...if you ask God, he will give them when you need them.
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We listen to the Holy Spirit.
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The Holy Spirit will nudge you or prompt you.
- Be ready to step out when that happens because the only way you learn to use these supernatural tools is to use them.
- I know the fear is, what if I do damage with these gifts and this is what makes these tools so unique.
- When you utilize them in love as Paul wrote, you won’t do damage.
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Love covers over our mistakes and wrongs...when we have the right heart, we can step out and use the gifts God is giving us.
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We exercise them in the most beneficial way.
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Use these gifts or tools to benefit others, not to be a show for yourself.
"The fruit of the Spirit is not what we can make ourselves do for a moment, but what God makes us to be for a lifetime." -Wayne Jacobsen
Upcoming Message Series - "Holy Spirit"
- 8/4: The Fruits of the Spirit
- 8/11: The Gifts of the Spirit
- 8/18: The Work of the Spirit
Recommended Books About the Holy Spirit:
- “Goodbye Chicken, Hello Dove” by Tim Enloe
- “The Holy Spirit is Not a Bird” by Ty Buckingham
- “Forgotten God” by Francis Chan
- "Power for Life" by Jeff Leake
- "Secrets of the Vine" by Bruce Wilkinson
In the book “Unoffendable” author, Brant Hansen makes this observation that is so powerful. He said, “Some people are artists. They just see things better. When they look at something, they see potential outcomes. They see what could be.”
This is how Jesus operated, and this is what it takes to be unoffendable.
We see the human condition and shouldn’t be shocked by it…people will disappoint us…people will at times do and say incredibly mean things…people will make really dumb decisions, even destructive decisions…don’t be surprised when that happens.
- But we also need to see things better….we should see what could be…we focus on that picture.
Maybe our struggle to overcome offenses isn’t that everyone is out to offend us or that there are so many offensive things present in our world…maybe it’s because we have stopped looking for the beautiful exceptions?
We are amazing at positioning ourselves as the right ones and others as the wrong ones…and I don’t think it’s just an American thing, but I think it’s a human thing.
And the struggle we often face is this predisposition we have of being offended…almost like we’re always looking for it.
The difference comes when we become more aware of our own falleness.
- When we recognize our sin, our mistakes, our shortcomings, we are less likely to hold others against them.
Anger is a choice not a matter of chance.
1. Forgiveness is more about you than the person who offended you.
2. The strength of forgiveness is found in its speed not just its action.
3. Forgiveness will change the nature within you and the culture around you.
The greatest threat to what we’re becoming is settling for what is good without pursuing what is best.
How do you make the best choices, not just the good choices?
Apply what I call the “Crosshairs of Choice.”
- What choice will honor Jesus?
- What choice will honor the journey?
When our identity and worth is defined by what we do, we miss the value and beauty of who God is shaping us to become.
Complications bring confusion, while simplicity brings clarity.
Why you do determines what you’re walking to.
Look at the most draining parts of your week.
What are the things on your schedule that you dread, that exhaust you or that you absolutely hate doing?
- With those things, have you talked to Jesus about them?
- What is the ‘why’ that first led you to do them?
- What changes need to happen in light of those two questions?
When you don’t listen well, you often find yourself in places you aren’t supposed to be.
Ways we can listen well to the voice of Jesus:
- Lean into the wisdom of those that hear the voice of Jesus.
- Be open to what God speaks through the Bible.
- Listen to the voice of Jesus in your own life.
Ninja Warrior Weekend 2023
Interview with Jared Greer & John Stem (former American Ninja Warrior Contestants)
7-23-2023
Relational Healing | A Conversation with Dr. Richard Harris & Dr. Kenneth Stephens
A powerful conversation about Relational Healing with two special guests, Dr. Kenneth Stevens and Dr. Richard Harris from Southeastern University. Dr. Stevens is an African-American man who grew up in the deep south. Dr. Harris previously served as the Grand Dragon of one of the largest KKK groups in the nation. Today both men have been radically transformed by the grace of Jesus, and will share their story of how reconciliation can happen, even in impossible circumstances.
The Promise Of Wholeness Pastor Nick Poole with Pastor Dave Martin and Lindsay Selaney 9-18-2022
The Promise Of Healing Pastor Nick Poole With Guests Pastors Bob & Debbie Lococq 9-11-2022
Meat & Potatoes (The Essentials Of Unity) Pastor Nick Poole & Pastor Jason Weaver 6-12-2022
Join Pastor Nick Poole in a conversation with Dave Dravecky - former MLB pitcher for the San Fransisco Giants
Join us as we talk about exciting things that God has done in 2021, and share vision of where we are going as a church in 2022!
"Wrap Up" Sunday 2021 On the last Sunday of 2021 our staff took some time to share stories from throughout the year. We remember what God has done together and look forward to what we trust God to do in the future. 12-26-2021
Pastor Nick Poole with Pastor Sharon Poole, Pastor Ron Gale, Pastor Dave Martin, Pastor Delena Thomas, & Rosemary Suitor 9-5-2021
The Truth About Suffering (Real Conversations) Pastor Nick Poole & Pastor Bryan Koch 4-25-2021
The Truth About Burnout (Real Conversations) Pastor Nick Poole with guest interviews: Pastor John Tirpak Dr. Matt Wolselagle 4-18-2021
The Truth About Mental Health Pastor Nick Poole with Special Guest Kayla Stoecklein 4-11-2021
The Battle Of Disappointment (When The Fruitcake Hits The Fan) Pastor Dave Martin 12-13-2020
The Journey Of Uncertainty (When The Fruitcake Hits The Fan) Pastor Nick Poole 12-6-2020
The Struggle With Stress (When The Fruitcake Hits The Fan) Pastor Pete Kramer 11-29-2020
Jonah - Restored (Hero Sunday) Pastor Nick Poole with Special Guest Interview 11-15-2020
We Can Do What We Put Our Minds To (The Bible Doesn't Say That) Pastor Nick Poole 7-12-2020
The American God Pastor Nick Poole Panel Discussion with Dave Brock, and Dave Martin. 7-5-2020
Join Pastor Nick and Pastor Dave as they discuss May's Sermon Series and how we can respond in our nations time of crisis facing racism.
Pastor Nick Poole With Special Guests from Breakthrough Movie "Unthinkable Miracle" 4-19-2020
Join us at the conclusion of each month for going Beyond the Message, where we take a deeper look at the past sermon series and how we can apply it to our faith journey.