Latest News

The Historic Calvary Baptist Church will celebrate Women’s History Month with a special worship service on Sunday, March 15, 2026, featuring Dr. Regena Thomas as guest preacher. The service will highlight the vital role and contributions of women in faith, leadership, education, and community service.

As part of the celebration, the church will honor three distinguished women whose work has made a lasting impact in their respective fields and communities: Dr. Regena Thomas, Dr. Rhina M. Tavarez, and Kat Esquiche, M.Ed.
Dr. Regena Thomas, an accomplished leader and dynamic speaker, will deliver the morning message, inspiring the congregation with reflections on faith, perseverance, and the enduring influence of women throughout history.

Dr. Rhina M. Tavarez is recognized for her commitment to education, leadership, and advocacy within the community, while Kat Esquiche, M.Ed., is celebrated for her dedication to empowering students and strengthening educational opportunities.

“This special service is an opportunity for our church and community to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women who continue to shape our society,” church leaders shared. “Their dedication, leadership, and service reflect the spirit of Women’s History Month and inspire future generations.”

Members of the community are warmly invited to attend and participate in this meaningful celebration of faith, leadership, and recognition.

Event Details:
Historic Calvary Baptist Church
Sunday, March 15, 2026
Women’s History Month Celebration Service
Guest Preacher: Dr. Regena Thomas

“Make a Will” Event Provides Peace of Mind at No Cost

Paterson, NJ — Passaic County Surrogate Judge Zoila Cassanova, Esq., in collaboration with Northeast New Jersey Legal Services, is proud to host a free “Make a Will” event for qualifying Passaic County seniors (age 60+) and veterans (of any age) on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church – Fellowship Hall, 575 East 18th Street, Paterson, NJ 07514.

This initiative provides eligible residents with the opportunity to prepare a standard Last Will and Testament at no cost, ensuring their wishes are documented and their loved ones protected.

“Having a will is one of the most important steps an individual can take to secure their legacy and ease the burden on family members,” said Dr. Randall Lassiter, Senior Pastor, Calvary Baptist Church. “We’re honored to offer this service to our seniors and veterans who have given so much to our community.”

Event Details:

What: Free Last Will and Testament Preparation

When: Thursday, August 28, 2025

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (by appointment only)

Where: Calvary Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall
575 East 18th Street
Paterson, NJ 07514

Cost: FREE for eligible Passaic County seniors and veterans

Eligibility:

Seniors (age 60 and over)

Veterans (of any age)

Must be a resident of Passaic County

Registration is required.
To schedule an appointment, visit registration page or call Christopher Mariano at (973) 881-4760 x1200.

This event is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that all members of our community—especially those most in need—have access to essential legal planning resources.

Individuals seeking a second chance are invited to attend the Fresh Start Expungement Clinic on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 575 East 18th Street, Paterson, NJ 07514.

This free community clinic offers an opportunity for eligible individuals to receive legal assistance with clearing criminal records, along with access to resources and support services. Local attorneys and volunteers will be available on-site to help attendees understand the expungement process and determine their eligibility.

“We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to move forward without the barriers that come from past mistakes,” said Dr. Randall Lassiter, Senior Pastor, Calvary Baptist Church. “This clinic is about restoring hope and opening doors to employment, housing, and education.”

Event Details:

What: Fresh Start Expungement Clinic

When: Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Where: Calvary Baptist Church
575 East 18th Street
Paterson, NJ 07514

Cost: FREE

Who Should Attend:

Individuals with prior criminal charges or convictions in New Jersey

Those seeking legal advice about expungement eligibility

Community members looking for a fresh start

No appointment is necessary, but attendees are encouraged to bring any court documents related to their case(s) to expedite the review process.

Backpack Giveaway, Church Picnic, and Worship Celebration to Bring Families Together

Calvary Baptist Church is excited to announce its annual Family & Friends Weekend, a two-day celebration of community, faith, and fellowship, taking place Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24, 2025.

The weekend kicks off on Saturday, August 23, with a Backpack Giveaway and Church Picnic beginning at 11:00 AM on the church grounds. Families from across the community are invited to enjoy a day filled with fun, food, games, and free school supplies. Backpacks filled with essential supplies will be distributed to students to help them start the new school year prepared and encouraged.

On Sunday, August 24, Calvary Baptist Church will host a special Family & Friends Worship Service at 10:00 AM. All are welcome to attend this joyful celebration, which will feature uplifting music, an inspiring message, and a spirit of unity as members invite their loved ones to worship together.

Pastor Randall Lassiter, Senior Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, shared his excitement:

“Family & Friends Weekend is a time for us to reconnect, uplift one another, and show the love of Christ to our neighbors. Whether you’ve been part of Calvary for years or you’re joining us for the first time, we invite you to come and be part of something special. This is more than an event—it’s a celebration of the bonds that make us stronger.”

Calvary Baptist Church is committed to serving the spiritual and practical needs of the community. Through events like Family & Friends Weekend, the church continues its mission to share faith through action, compassion, and hospitality.

Calvary Baptist Church Celebrates the 13th Pastoral Anniversary of Dr. Randall M. Lassiter

Calvary Baptist Church is honored to celebrate the 13th Pastoral Anniversary of Dr. Randall M. Lassiter, a visionary leader, devoted servant, and steadfast spiritual guide to the congregation and community. The celebration will take place on [Insert Date] at [Insert Time] at Calvary Baptist Church, located at [Insert Church Address].

This special occasion will feature guest speaker Apostle Keith G. Powell and promises to be a spirit-filled time of reflection, praise, and gratitude for the transformative leadership Dr. Lassiter has provided over the past 13 years.

Since being called to serve at Calvary Baptist Church, Dr. Lassiter has been a pillar of strength, wisdom, and compassion. Under his leadership, the church has grown in faith, outreach, and community impact, demonstrating a commitment to ministry excellence and spiritual growth.

“All are welcome to attend this joyous celebration,” said a representative of the church. “We are excited to honor Dr. Lassiter’s faithful service, and the incredible blessings God has poured into our congregation through his leadership.”

Event Details:
What: 13th Pastoral Anniversary Celebration of Dr. Randall M. Lassiter
When: Sunday, July 20, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Calvary Baptist Church, 575 East 18th Street, Paterson, NJ 07514
Guest Speaker: Apostle Keith G. Powell
Admission: Free and open to the public

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” — Jeremiah 3:15

We’re excited to share a wonderful opportunity to pour into the lives of our young scholars this summer through the Calvary Baptist Church Freedom School Program. Each morning, we begin with a special Read Aloud session, where caring adults from our church and community read fun, inspiring, and meaningful stories to our children.

We’re inviting YOU to be a guest reader! Whether it’s a childhood favorite, a story that empowers, or a book that’s impacted your life, your presence can help spark a love of reading in the next generation.

If you’re interested in serving as a guest reader, check out the flyer to get more information and sign-up

Thank you for supporting our scholars and being a part of this impactful ministry. We can’t wait to welcome you to Freedom School!

Join us for an important Town Hall Meeting featuring Mayor Andre Sayegh as our guest speaker. This is your opportunity to engage directly with city leadership and discuss the issues that matter most to the residents of Paterson, NJ.

📅 Date: Monday, June 30, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Calvary Baptist Church, 575 East 18th Street, Paterson, NJ 07514

Come share your concerns, ask questions, and be part of the conversation shaping our community’s future.

Your voice matters—don’t miss it!

Kickstart Your Dream Business & Elevate with Purpose!
Presented by The Nehemiah Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner looking to grow and thrive? Join us for an exciting series of classes designed to equip, inspire, and elevate your business journey!

🔹 Topics Include:
✅ Website Design & Google Ads
✅ Business Financing Essentials
✅ Branding & Marketing Strategies
✅ And much more!

📅 Start Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
💲 One-Time Fee:

Adults: $10
Youth: $5
📌 Payment Options:
💵 Cash App: $CBCPaterson1
📲 Calvary App: https://pushpay.com/g/calvarypaterson

Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your vision into reality with expert guidance and faith-driven support. Register today and take the next step toward success!

In light of Governor Murphy’s State of Emergency declaration due to the impending snowstorm, Calvary Baptist Church will not be holding in-person worship services tomorrow, January 19, 2025.

Instead, we invite you to join us online for our worship service, so everyone can participate safely from home. Please stay warm and safe during this time.

📺 You can view the service on our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@cbcpaterson5578

We look forward to worshiping together virtually and continuing to gather in spirit. Stay safe, and we’ll see you online!

Blessings,
Calvary Baptist Church

We are excited that Calvary Baptist Church in Paterson, NJ, is launching its inaugural newsletter! According to Senior Pastor Randall M. Lassiter, “church newsletter is a fantastic tool for fostering community, sharing updates, and uniting members in their shared mission and vision”. With 2025 being the year to grow together as one, this newsletter can play a crucial role in creating a sense of belonging and collaboration.

The newsletter is one of the few ways we will be fostering communication and supporting the church’s vision for unity:

Regular Updates and News: Sharing upcoming events, ministries, and programs helps keep everyone in the loop. When people feel informed, they’re more likely to participate and engage.

Personal Stories and Testimonials: Including personal stories or testimonies from members can inspire others and build connections within the congregation. Highlighting milestones or changes in individual lives (birthdays, baptisms, anniversaries) can also create a sense of shared journey.

Focus on Themes of Unity: Incorporating scripture or messages that emphasize unity, such as passages from 1 Corinthians 12 or Ephesians 4, could help reinforce the theme of “togetherness” as you move into 2025.

Call to Action: Encourage members to actively engage in various church activities or service projects, and invite them to contribute to the newsletter itself—whether through stories, volunteer opportunities, or feedback.

Prayer Requests and Support: Offering a space for prayer requests and celebrating answered prayers can bring the church together spiritually, reinforcing the sense of unity and community.

With effective communication, Calvary Baptist Church will continue to nurture deeper connections among its members, strengthen its collective vision, and truly grow as one. Check out the newsletter here: https://anyflip.com/xdtyw/hilv/