In the fall of 1995, Rod and Noreen Carver began praying about where the Lord might lead them. Rod had served as youth minister to high school and college students at Calvary Chapel of Chino Valley in California for over 5 years, the last 3 years as a full time staff minister. By December of 1995 the possibilities had narrowed and their prayers began to focus on Corpus Christi.

As a college student Rod backslid and just before graduating he rededicated his life to the Lord at a surf contest on Padre Island. Eight years had passed without a thought of returning but when push came to shove, God wanted them in Corpus Christi. A visit in the summer of 1996 confirmed that God would move them to South Texas.

They spent the next year preparing and working with their pastor in California to make a smooth transition out of that ministry. In September 1997 Rod moved into a home in Flour Bluff and Noreen and their two young daughters followed a month later. They have since moved to the south side.

Coastlands Bible Study, as originally called, started meeting in mid October 1997 on Wednesday nights. By January 1998, Calvary Chapel of the Coastlands started meeting for Sunday services as an incorporated church. Later in 1998 Calvary Chapel began meeting in the Seventh Day Adventist Church on the south side. From there we moved to a Christian College for a year while developing our current facility at Rodd Field and Saratoga.

God has blessed us with the responsibility of hosting a Bible teaching radio station. Rod built and managed KSGR 91.1FM until 2002 when he was able to become a full time pastor. Our worship leader, Jim Shepherd, now manages KSGR. We currently house KSGR, a bookstore and coffee shop on our campus.

Why does Corpus Christi need another church?

All Christian churches should share the same function as laid out plainly in the scriptures and as modeled by the early church in the book of Acts, but every church does not share the same format or personality. We do not believe that everyone should or that everyone needs to join our church, but believe that there are those in Corpus Christi who would grow and appreciate the particular emphasis and style of ministry which we bring to South Texas. We believe we exist as a church to reach those who the Lord would bring to us and to preach the gospel to those who come into our path.

What should I expect when I visit Calvary Chapel of the Coastlands?

ATMOSPHERE: The first thing you will notice is the casual atmosphere. This is not some marketing scheme to get people to come to church; this is merely the style which developed because of this particular movement's roots in the late 60's and early 70's. People are free to dress formal or casual, style of dress is not an issue with God.

CHILDREN'S CHURCH: Next you will notice that the adults stay together while most children choose to go to Children's Church. We emphasize teaching the word of God to the children as well as adults. We value the opportunity to plant the Word of God in the fertile hearts of our children while parents receive instruction on an adult level without distraction.

WORSHIP: The music would reflect the style of worship which is consistent with the average age of the congregation. Most songs find their roots directly out of scripture, many quote scripture directly.

BIBLE STUDY: As with the children, there is a great emphasis on the teaching of the word of God for adults. If you spend enough time with us you will find that we teach verse by verse through each book, studying them in the same order which they originally were written and read. This keeps us from tangents and focusing on one doctrine at the expense of others, giving a well rounded understanding of doctrine. As we travel through each book, you will find that practical insight is given at every opportunity. The Bible teaches us how to know God, how to marvel at His grace and how to respond appropriately to His love toward us.

ATTITUDE: And hopefully, above all, we believe that you will find a group of people who have changed through experiencing the love of God and who desire to share that love at every opportunity.

SIMPLICITY: We strive to remain simple in our organization. Yes, we do have events and special gatherings but will always keep the main thing the main thing. Ephesians 4:11-12 reveals that the church is a place to equip the saints for works of ministry, that is our desire.

How can I find out more?

You may view our TV Program on ATT Cable public access station channel 10 (you may call direct for a schedule as day & times are subject to change) or listen daily on KSGR 91.1 FM to "Shelter from the Storm" at 8:30 am, Monday-Friday. We hope you and your family come visit us sometime soon. If you have any questions about our fellowship or have any Biblical questions, please contact us.