Established 1958
We are a small congregation of 100 members. Like many churches, we have lost members to moving out of the community and attrition by death. After much soul searching, the congregation decided to commit to transformation (redevelopment). To that end work has begun on seeking a vision for our ministry in this place. We have a history of mission work within the community (PADS, local community center, CROP Walk, etc.) We seek to deepen our spiritual practices and discern the make up of the immediate community. We are a diverse congregation. While we are predominately Caucasian, we have long term members who are Afro-American and Asian. Our program priorities revolve around intentional, evolution into a more vital congregation, ministering to its members, its immediate community and the larger community.
We are in Park Forest, a suburban community developed after World War II for returning vets. Early in its history it housed young families whose head commuted to the city via train and students especially from the University of Chicago. Over time the village became more ethnically diverse. According to the 2000 census the village is 57% white and 39% black or Afro-American.
Since we are a small church, ample opportunities for worship leadership, preaching, teaching, visitation, and program development exist. The learning and serving opportunities will be chosen based on the learning needs of the student and their skill sets. The pastor practices a collaborative style of leadership so learning that style will be a given part of the experience here.
By car we are reached by going south on I-94 (the Dan Ryan) to I-57 to the Lincoln Highway (US Route 30) exit. Exit traveling east for about 2.5 miles (4km) to the intersection with Orchard Drive. We are located on the southeast corner.
By public transportation we are reached by taking the Metra train from either the 55th or 59th Street station south to the 211tth Street Station and walking east about 4 blocks to the church.
Dudley J. Elvery II has been the pastor of Calvary United since 2003. He did pulpit supply for First Presbyterian Church of Peotone and Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church. At Lincoln Park, he also served as Director of Redevelopment. Rev. Elvery has experience in the areas of counseling and therapy, and served as adjunct at several colleges.