Church History

Calvary M.B.C. was organized in 1926 under the leadership of Rev. Charlie H. Miles, Sr. He was the founder and dedicated Pastor for 39 years. During his pastorate he was a great supporter of young ministers of the Gospel. To name a few, Pastor Miles purchased the land where the original church was built at 109 E. 40 ½ Street in 1934. Later at that same location, two other buildings were erected and upgraded exteriorly. Calvary also became an affiliate of the Independence Baptist Association.

Rev. Charlie H. Miles, Sr. (1926 - 1965)
Founder and dedicated pastor of Calvary for 39 years, during his pastorate he was a great supporter of young ministers of the gospel, he also established several ministries and achieved many goals. His accomplishments were great during his time.

Accomplishments: Pastor Miles purchased the land that the original church was built on in 1934 and later, two other builders were erected and upgraded exteriorly. Calvary became an affiliate of the Independent Baptist Association.

Pastor Miles remained faithful to the Calvary M.B.C. until the Lord called him home in 1965.

From 1967 to 1991, Calvary was led by several Pastors whom names are listed below. During the tenure of these Pastors, Calvary continued to serve God and the community:

Rev. I. C. Green, Sr. (1965 - 1967)
Presided as pastor after the death of Rev. C.H. Miles, Sr. He served faithfully until his health began to fail. During his short time of service, he encouraged and promoted mission work. In late 1967, Rev. I. C. Green Sr. passed away.

Rev. I. C. Green, Jr. (1967- 1969)
Was appointed pastor after the death of his father. He continued the path of his father in preaching the gospel and enhancing the appearance of the edifice. He resigned in 1969.

Rev. Lonnie Hurd, Sr. (1970 - 1976)
Became the pastor shortly after the resignation of Rev. I. C. Green, Jr. In addition to his gift to preach, he and his family were inspirational through song. Rev. Hurd laid the cornerstone of the church and promoted fellowship among the sister churches until he parted from the church in 1977.

Rev. O. L. Holliday (1976 - 1982)
A very influential preacher and motivator during his tenure at Calvary. He was an inspirational minister and inspiring singer. He separated from Calvary in 1982.

Rev. Tommie L. Mims (1983 - 1990)
Became pastor in 1983. He was an excellent gospel orator, supported of young ministers of the gospel and an inspirational soloist. Pastor Mims served faithfully at Calvary until he relocated to Oakridge, TN.

Rev. Alex Morrison (Interim) (1982-1983) - (1990 - 1991)

Rev. Shannon T. Oliver (1991 - Present)

A passionate and exceptional preacher and teacher of God's Word. He has faithfully led Calvary for the last 24 years, during that time he has strengthen the church leadership and membership through his profound teaching of Godly principles. Under his guidance the church continues to grow not only in numbers, but more loyal to the teachings of Christ. Pastor Oliver has been diligent and obedient to the work God has placed in his hands. During many trials and tribulations of building this edifice to God, he continues onward following the vision God has placed in his heart and the hearts of the members. He has taught us that the work of God is not within these walls, but we have to meet the spiritual needs of the community. We have to encourage each member to do their part within the body. Then and only then will the body function fully as God designed and intended it.

Pastor Oliver accomplishments are so numerous that time and space will not allow. Just look around and you can see that the work of God continues and NO ONE can deny that God has brought us a mighty long way!