Calvary Community Church History

June 24, 2006

Calvary Community Church of Norwalk began in October 1946 when a group of Christians in Norwalk saw the need for a full gospel church in this community. This committed group of believers formed a church, meeting at Norwalk Women’s Clubhouse.

In mid-1947, Rev. Dale E. Hundsdoerfer became the first pastor. The church was incorporated in February 1949, known as Calvary Community Assembly of God.

In October of 1949, the church moved to the corner of Pioneer Blvd and Mapledale Ave, holding their services in a tent while constructing a permanent building.

On Friday, April 14, 1950, the church celebrated its first service in their new chapel.

The current sanctuary was built in 1956 to accommodate the growing congregation. At this time the congregation voted to change their name to First Assembly of God of Norwalk.

From 1963 until 1976, the church was pastored by Reverends A. J. and Betty Sovern. In January 1964, a ministry to the hearing impaired began when one man, discovering that the pastor’s wife knew sign language, began attending services. That ministry grew into what is now Calvary Community Deaf Church which continues to hold its services here. This deaf congregation was pastored by Rev. Betty Sovern until 1993, and now is pastored by Rev. Fredore Crews.

On October 24, 1976, Bellflower Assembly of God and First Assembly of God of Norwalk merged. Reflecting this merger, the newly combined congregation voted to change its name to Calvary Community Church.

In 1988 the congregation, in partnership with Life Center Assembly of Lakewood, began sponsoring an annual Royal Family Kids Camp for the abused and neglected children of Los Angeles County. This ministry continues to bring compassion and hope into young lives.

Calvary Community Church History

Calvary Community Church remains committed to reaching people for Christ through its various ministries to children, youth, and adults. Significant efforts focus on a heart for missions, contributing to the support of many missionaries around the world. CCC continues to be committed to Making a Difference in its community.

Pastors who have served Calvary Community Church:

Siegfried Manntai

Current Pastor

Since 1996

Dale Hundsdoerfer

Founding Pastor

1947 -1962

A.J. Sovern

1963 – 1976

Dennis Millat

1976 – 1987

Sam Miller

1987 – 1991

Jim Knutsen

1991 – 1995

Gary Jeffery

1995 – 1996