Dear friends,
I pray this finds you well and thriving in the work God has entrusted to you.
Many of you have already heard reports of Pastor Char Brodersen and Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa’s recent announcement that they intend to ordain women as elders and pastors. This represents a significant departure from the biblical convictions that have historically shaped our Calvary Chapel family.
For those of us who have been deeply influenced by Pastor Chuck Smith’s ministry, this development is especially grievous. Through his leadership, Calvary Chapel became a central part of the Jesus Movement and established a strong example of teaching God’s Word simply, depending on the Holy Spirit, and eagerly awaiting Christ’s return. Costa Mesa’s present direction departs from important convictions Pastor Chuck faithfully taught and modeled.
These concerns did not arise overnight. Brian Brodersen’s departure from the Calvary Chapel Association’s leadership and the subsequent formation of Calvary Global Network marked a separation in ministry direction. As a regional team, we have serious concerns about the direction Costa Mesa has taken. This latest announcement deepens those concerns and underscores the importance of remaining anchored in Scripture as we lead the churches entrusted to our care.
Although disagreement over these doctrines does not, in itself, determine a person’s salvation, these are consequential matters of biblical interpretation, church order, and pastoral faithfulness. We do not affirm the ordination of women as elders or pastors as biblically sound or consistent with the Calvary Chapel distinctives upheld by the Calvary Chapel Association.
We gladly affirm the indispensable ministry of women throughout the church. Our conviction that the office of elder or pastor is reserved for qualified men does not diminish women’s dignity, spiritual gifts, or vital contribution to the body of Christ. It reflects our understanding of God’s design for His church, particularly as expressed in 1 Timothy 2:11–14 and 3:1–7.
You may see Calvary Chapel pastors and churches issuing statements clarifying their convictions and distinguishing their ministries from Costa Mesa’s direction. Here in the Heartland region, we encourage you to retain the Calvary Chapel name and represent both our heritage and our future well. Continue teaching the Word, shepherding your people, and fulfilling Christ’s commission to make disciples. The clearest expression of who we are will be the faithful ministry taking place in our churches.
If you believe a public statement would serve your congregation, we have included social media graphics and suggested wording you are welcome to use (see below). These are resources, not expectations. Each pastor should prayerfully consider what will best serve his church.
We have also included a link to Char Brodersen’s teaching so you can hear his explanation firsthand, along with resources outlining our Calvary Chapel distinctives and doctrinal convictions. If you have questions or need further clarification, please reach out to any of our regional leaders.
As we respond, let us speak with conviction, accuracy, and grace. Pray for Costa Mesa’s pastors and congregation, and guard your own hearts and churches. Our responsibility to contend for truth must be accompanied by humility and a willingness to examine our own faithfulness to Scripture.
Men, let us continue forward, steadfast, immovable, and always abounding in the work of the Lord. The world is troubled, but our hope is secure, and we eagerly await our Savior’s return. Until we see Him face to face, persevere, preach the Word, do the work of an evangelist, and fulfill your ministry.
In Christ,
Pastor Josh Blevins & the CCA Heartland Regional Team
Instagram Carousel Images - https://graceontheweb.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/cca-convictions-carousel.zip
Char Broderson’s Sermon - https://www.youtube.com/live/KEeexI1bIPQ
CCA Philosophy of Ministry and Distinctives - https://calvarycca.org/philosophy/
